2005 Ford Shelby Cobra GT500 Concept

The Reuniting of Automotive Icons

I'm guessing I'm not alone among auto enthusiasts in having a special place in my heart for Shelby Mustang Cobras. I've driven

Like many auto enthusiasts, I have a soft spot in my heart for Shelby Mustang Cobras. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada)

a few examples over the years, with the most memorable an extremely rare and well preserved 1968 GT-500KR - KR being short for King of the Road.

Such a title might seem more appropriate for Bill Ford and Carroll Shelby's latest Mustang, the Shelby Cobra GT500 Concept. Since the automotive businesses favourite octogenarian has been back with the blue oval gang he's been very busy. He oversaw the development of the reinvented Cobra roadster which debuted at last year's Detroit auto show, but due to chunky, somewhat awkward styling it drew mixed reviews. The gorgeous GR-1 concept that came along later in the year, which reportedly received even more

The Shelby Cobra GT500 Concept is more than just a design exercise, but rather it shows the styling direction for the next-generation SVT Mustang Cobra coupe. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada)

input by the legendary racer and racecar builder, has been given rave accolades, mind you. While it's pretty certain the Cobra roadster concept won't be produced, there's a decent chance that the GR-1 will get the green light once current GT production is over.

But who's got a hundred and fifty grand to buy a new supercar? Not as many people who can drop fifty large for something that might be even more desirable, at least to muscle car fans. The Shelby Cobra GT500 Concept is more than just a design exercise, but rather it shows the styling direction for the next-generation SVT Mustang Cobra coupe, a car that has won over sports car enthusiasts due to its overwhelmingly powerful drivetrain and lithe independent rear suspension (IRS) enhanced handling.