Going on right now in Scottsdale, Arizona, is the annual Barrett-Jackson classic car auction. But its not all classics up for auctions. Yesterday we reported that a 2013 Shelby GT500 testing prototype would cross the auction block over the weekend. This is a rare move for Ford, as most testing prototypes are stored away or, more likely, crushed.
But this one won’t be, and thanks to Matt Trombley and the Motor City Project, we have our first look at the 650 horsepower 2013 GT500 prototype. And it sure looks testy (da da dun.)
As already reported, this particular prototype Shelby was for “durability” testing, and saw a lot of work at racetracks like Sebring and the Nardo Ring in Italy. Reportedly, this test mule saw speeds in excess of 200 mph, though unlike the road-going version, this prototype GT500 has a roll cage in the back seats. Another interesting feature? It lacks the 2013 model’s LED taillights, and it appears to come with a lot of diagnostic wiring as well.
In order to add authenticity to the test mule, the SVT team left signs of the testing, including tape markings, unfortunate bugs, and mismatching bumpers. They also signed the inside deck lid. This is a very rare, very unusual auction for Ford, and such an opportunity might not happen again for a long time. Whoever ends up with this prototype Shelby GT500 will own a unique piece of history, that’s for sure. Head over the the Motor City Project for more pictures of this unique Mustang.