SEMA 2012: ROUSH Introduces 700hp Phase 3 Special Edition RS3 ‘Stang

It’s been a proverbial race for OEM-level aftermarket manufactures to build the baddest Mustang on the planet, and ROUSH has recently raised the bar with their 700hp RS3 Phase 3 Mustang SEMA show car. The power behind this monster is ROUSH’s new Phase 3 supercharger system.

“This Phase 1-­‐2-­‐3 power-­‐adding program continues to be an incredible success for the earlier model 4.6L Mustangs, and we’re excited to apply the same concept to the 5.0,” states Tim Wheeler, of ROUSH Performance. “We have a diverse Mustang enthusiast following that wanted different levels of power based on how they’re going to use their 5.0 Mustang, or based on their particular comfort level with these higher-­‐horsepower kits.”

The Mustang in question features ROUSH’s Phase 3 kit that delivers between 675-700hp and over 585 lb/ft of torque to the crank. The engine still retains the factory 2.3-liter Eaton TVS supercharger but with a much smaller pulley to create more boost, along with a more aggressive calibration and open element air filter system.

Helping support this large horsepower jump is a Ford Racing Aluminator crate engine. Still utilizing the standard bore and stroke, this standard-size 302 boasts a fully forged rotating assembly. The compression ratio has been dropped to 9.5:1 via Mahle hard anodized forged pistons and Manley H-beam connecting rods with ARP bolts. “Our customer base has been hungry for a forged block configuration powered by our best ROUSH supercharger…and we think this engine package will blow away everyone’s expectations,” says Wheeler.

We have a diverse Mustang enthusiast following that wanted different levels of power based on how they’re going to use their 5.0 Mustang. – Tim Wheeler

In addition to the new-found power, this special edition RS3 features a custom paint scheme by Sherwin-Williams. The “Sin City Silver” and “Luminescent Lime” is a unique combination that was a real head turner. What is hard to capture in the SEMA floor lighting is the high level of fleck that glistens in the Luminescent Lime paint.

Interior features include custom Recaro Phase 3 seats, Lime color interior accents, and a BOSS 302 Laguna Seca rear seat delete. “We will be working much closer with Ford Racing and the parts they offer,” says Jay Velthoven. “The BOSS 302 Laguna Seca rear seat delete is one of those parts under consideration for future RS3 development.”

 ROUSH plans to let us review this unique Phase 3 RS3 Mustang in the next coming months, so keep an eye out for some track time thrashing!


 ROUSH Phase 3 RS3 Specifics

  • 5.0 Phase 3 supercharger – 700HP and 585lb/ft
  • Sherwin-Williams “Planet Color” custom Sin City Silver and Luminescent Lime paint scheme
  • Ford Racing Aluminator Motor showcasing forged internals allows ROUSH to dial-up the horsepower
  • Ford Racing X-Brace painted to match the exterior body colors
  • ROUSH 20” five spoke wheels painted in metallic black
  • Cooper Tires 20” RS3 tires
  • ESCORT Radar – Smart Mirror, Passport 9500ci, and Smart Cord
  • Eaton Truetrac locking rear differential
  • Recaro custom seats embroidered with the ROUSH Phase 3 logos

 

About the author

Mark Gearhart

In 1995 Mark started photographing drag races at his once local track, Bradenton Motorsports Park. He became hooked and shot virtually every series at the track until 2007 until he moved to California and began working as a writer for Power Automedia. He was the founding editor for its first online magazines, and transitioned into the role of editorial director role in 2014. Retiring from the company in 2016, Mark continues to expand his career as a car builder, automotive enthusiast, and freelance journalist to provide featured content and technical expertise.
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