2004 Ford Shelby GR-1 Concept

I've driven a few of these over the years, starting with a light and quick 289 Cobra, followed by a muscular 427-powered version,

The concept features Ford's 6.4-liter V10, producing an amazing 605 horsepower and 501 lb-ft of torque. This photo is of the same engine in the Shelby Cobra Concept that appeared in Detroit in January, as no photo was made available of the engine in the GR-1. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada)

and more recently a Shelby Mustang GT500 KR. All were crude, all were fast, and all lived up to the legendary performance Shelby cars have become famous for.

No doubt the latest Ford to feature Carroll's sir name is quick too. After all, it features the same 6.4-liter V10 that also powers the GT. Making 605 horsepower and 501 lb-ft of torque, even the GR-1's hefty estimated 1,770 kilo (3,900 pound) curb weight couldn't hold it back. The new concept features a conventional 6-speed manual transaxle with limited slip (LSD), and a final drive ratio of 3.36:1. The large

The suspension is fully independent, of course, glued to the road via gorgeous 19-inch 12-spoke alloy wheels shod in 275/40/R19 front 345/35/R19 rear performance tires. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada)

displacement engine reaches maximum revs at 7,500 rpm, but after 6,750 it's merely music with no additional benefit to forward thrust. Maximum torque arrives at 5,550 rpm, not particularly low compared to the 8.3-liter Viper V10, but nevertheless there's plenty that comes on early enough in the rev range to light up the rear wheels and then some.

The suspension is fully independent, of course, glued to the road via gorgeous 19-inch 12-spoke alloy wheels shod in 275/40/R19 front 345/35/R19 rear performance tires.