OK, i don't want this to turn into a cluster, but i've searched and read waaaay too much.

looking at 2007-2010 mustangs, V8's only...from what i understand, there's the:
GT (4.6L 3v)
GT500 Shelby (4.6L 4v)
GT 500 Shelby Cobra (5.4L 4v supercharged)
and then of course, supersnake KR, etc.

are those numbers/engines correct? wondering if the price difference for the GT and GT500 are even worth it. I'm actually thinking a 4.6L would be enough juice and running 87 octane isn't a bad thing.....

 

The GT is 4.6L 3v. '05-'09 was 300 HP. 2010 is 315 HP.
GT500 is 5.4L 4v SC. Through '09 500HP. 2010 is 540 HP
The Shelby GT is/was 4.6L 3v with handling improvements and I think a slight bump in HP. But, all GT500s have the 5.4. The price difference between the GT and GT500 depends upon how much you value an extra 225HP.

Actually, there is probably close to $20k difference in base price. You can get superchargers, etc. to bump the 4.6 up to the level of the 5.4 SC. Only problem would be the warranty coverage. I've read some of the reviews of the new 2010 GT and they are much better than the reviews of the older models. I would test drive one and go from there. If the GT doesn't have enough pep for you, then consider the GT500. Just my $.02 worth.

 

well thanks for nothing LOL.....you have the same thoughts i had.
I would think the 4.6L would be enough and if not, Paxton!!! i've seen many GT500's for mid $30's with very low miles...i think people got in over their heads. take care.

 

Good luck with it. Now is a good time to buy as you already know. Some dealers still have '08 GT500s that they are selling on Ebay for pretty good prices. Problem is that it's hard to get one of them to let you test drive one. A GT probably would be fine and like you said, if not there's always the aftermarket.

Also, you might consider looking at Roush Performance. On their website, they say that they cover the Ford powertrain warranty (in not so many words). If I were looking to S/C something, I'd look at them first. Here's a link:

ROUSH Performance: 435hp ROUSHcharger Kit - Ford Mustang Supercharger

 

315 HP!.........I used to get into MORE than enough trouble with my 85 Mustang GT with the 225hp 5.0............315hp!,......I would be dead now.

 

As someone who just bought a new '08 Bullitt I'd suggest looking for an '08 and especially a Bullitt. More or less they are a 2010 Mustang w/ track pack but without the new body and at one hellova discount. The best I have seen, and got, was $10K off MSRP for an '08, you won't get that on a 2010 probably ever and '09's aren't even giving half that yet. If you don't need all the shiny "look at me!" mods on the outside the Bullitt is perfect for you.

Also these new 4.6L's have adaptive timing and will read what octane you use and adjust accordingly, The Bullitt's allegedly put out another 4hp with premium and 5-10lb-ft of torque over stock which is 315hp. Trust me 315hp in a car that weighs 3500lbs is damn exciting. plus the Bullitts have a 3.73LS which makes it even more lively. I was going to wait for a 2010 or 2011, mainly for Sync but the prices on '08s are just too good to pass up.

They only come in dark green or black and have no body emblems, here are a few pics I snapped a few weeks ago:







As you can see no horse and no foglights in the grille. So it looks like a V6 but can spank a GT. The only mod on that car is the front plate mount, they don't come with one from the factory.

 

That's probably the prettiest stang that I've seen but I noticed that you have a couple of mud spots on the fenders behind the tires, you should look after that. LOL.

I think you offered some great advise.

Tim

 

Yep, construction on my road and rain non stop for the last few months means it gets some mud between the highway and my driveway. I can't remember what day that was but it was clay barred since then and waxed, now dust is my worst enemy. I went from a white F150 to a black car, it is a nightmare keeping the car clean compared to the truck.

 

very nice! great prices all around on ebay.
this one's a bit steep, but definitely the look i like, color and all.

eBay Motors: Ford : Mustang (item 120413661628 end time May-06-09 13:01:29 PDT)

BUT, for a few grand more:
eBay Motors: Ford : Mustang (item 350194474080 end time May-04-09 13:30:15 PDT)

 

Note the yellow one says it has no warranty. Also, Ford went to the 5/60K powertrain some time in '06 IIRC. Also '08 base Shelby's were selling new for upper 30K's a few months ago.

 

shelby GT's were? or GT500?

leaning toward shelby GT if they come in yellow....

 

I am sure they were just the GT's, there is a guy at The mustang Source claiming he found 2 '08 Shelby's for mid $20K's I think he was looking at the Base Mustang GT price and not adding the Shelby package but we shall see.

Here is the thread:
2 - 2008 Shelby GT - The Mustang Source

 

considering the color i want (grabber orange or yellow) and the insurance difference, along with running premium all the time, i'm probably shifting towards the Shelby GT (not the Cobra)...i would think a 4.6L 4v is enough, and since it already has the handling package (if i researched correctly) all i'd have to do is add the blower later and save about 500 pounds and lots of $$$

 

If you modify the engine wont that void the waranty? Also you cant alter the engine in any way that would affect the emmision system .(ferderal law) And I do know for a fact that if you modify any car to increase power YOU MUST TELL YOUR INSURANCE company or they can deny coverage...Hate to poop on your party but better you know now than later.

 

adding a supercharger can void the warranty but it's not illegal. you might want to read a bit before posting. for example Roush performance and ford racing, they are mostly EPA legal.....