With 2019 just around the corner, Ford announces something special to start the next year with a bang. Loyal fans of the blue oval emblem are about to witness the first production model of the 2020 Shelby Mustang GT500 hit the auction block next month. Reports confirm that the vehicle will grace the 2019 Barret-Jackson event in Scottsdale, Arizona. Moreover, the proceeds from the sale of the car will essentially benefit a yet unnamed charity.
More details gathered by sources indicate that the event is slated on Jan. 18, 2019. Others quickly noted that the brand new pony car model will officially make its debut during the 2019 Detroit Auto Show, according to Auto Blog. It seems that in just four days after its public appearance, the manufacturer will throw a little more publicity to drum up interest.
Ford has been keeping a tight lip regarding the details of the 2020 Shelby Mustang GT500. Potential buyers will soon be able to check out everything at the expo, which precedes the 2019 Barret-Jackson auction. On the other hand, there are some footage and images of the prototype model decked in camouflage making its way around the web. Meanwhile, there are a few insider tips that tease a few tidbits of what to expect from the upcoming muscle car.
It is speculated that the vehicle will rely on a supercharged V8 engine that will generate in excess of 700 horsepower. It is also likely that the power plant will be an upgraded version of the existing 5.2-liter unit that is being used by the GT350. Additionally, rumors also suggest that it will feature an Eaton supercharger throws an additional boost rated at 12 psi. Until the company confirms the spec sheet, several sources claim that a seven-speed dual clutch or six-speed manual gearboxes might be available.
Another report from Driving notes that the proceeds from the sale of the first production model will go to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. The charity aims to eventually find a cure for Type 1 diabetes. Joe Hinrichs, the president of Ford global operations, stated that the company continues to support the former. In fact, it annually donates over $2 million taken from the sales of its Mustang lineup.
The individually that successfully outbids the competition will be able to customize the 2020 Shelby Mustang GT500. However, the unit will be delivered to the new owner at a later time, as indicated by Ford. It looks like Toyota will likewise participate in the 2019 Barret-Jackson auction with the first 2020 Supra on offer. Proceeds from the latter's sale will likewise go to charity to benefit the American Heart Association as well as the Bob Woodruff Foundation.
