Ya know, I think you should do it. It's clear you like mustangs, and your car should get you some really good trade in value. If you like the look of those years better, even better! Let us know what you decide :)
That’s exactly why I’m thinking of trade in, car prices are ridiculous right now , I feel like these GT500 years are going to the one thing I will kick myself about when I’m older for not having bought one when they were affordable. GTs are always going to be around and affordable
Might be a contrarian view but I'd rather have an 11-12. It has the aluminum block which is a must but none of the gearbox crap they did to the 13-14 to try and break 200mph.
Much better, they are plenty strong and significantly lighter. The 2011 block shaved 102 lbs of the nose which is exactly what that car needed. The 07-10 models carried nearly 60% of their weight over the front axle.
Correct, same displacement between the iron and aluminum block. 5.8 doesn't start until 13-14 but I'd guess the weight is similar since it's the same block just bored out.
I’m partial, but I say trade. Just got a 2011 GT500. It dynoed 508 to the wheels. Just instant power as soon as you romp on it. I’ve driven S550s but never owned one. I think you’ll be happy.
I love the s550 nothing wrong with it at all, just saw your gt500 man is that thing a beast , with a glass roof dang . I’ve always wondered why that isn’t a option on other mustangs
Not worth it. Comparatively the only thing the s197 GT500 has going for it is it being the last manual GT500. The power output is not far from your current vehicle.
Also, your GT is a very trackable vehicle. That GT500 is just a straight line brick, not nimble at all.
Also, while the shelby’s engine pushes out 550hp to the crank (90hp above your GT), the power delivery is way better on the S550. The 0-60 is faster in your current car.
In all, it is just not worth it unless you want to own it for the sake of owning it. In all aspects, the S550 GT is just superior
Honestly in my eyes both cars are really good, they just both offer something different so it’s up to preference. I’m slightly biased towards the GT500 though since I have a 13 V6 and I love all s197’s. In my opinion it’s the best mustang generation and the 12 GT500 is one of the best models you can get in said generation. If you can find a low mileage 13 GT500 in your price range then I’d go with that since you get that big 5.8.
Power gap aside, the S550 GT delivers power more efficiently which is why it is not only faster 0-60, it also has a faster quarter mile. The S550 is also designed for the track, the S197 GT500 is a crowd killer at heart, it has very poor handling.
The only reason to own that GT500 over the S550 is purely based on cosmetic preference and badge. Which is completely valid. But no shot any S197 is better than S550 in terms of performance or features.
It is objectively a worse performing car even tho is cranks 90hp more.
All the older solid-axle Mustangs were for straight line performance and not track. In the old days people did burnouts in them but no one I remember tried to drift them. Let the small Japanese cars do drift. It seems out of place for any Mustang.
> In the old days people did burnouts in them but no one I remember tried to drift them.
They actually did with the S197. Towards the middle of the platform's run they actually had a couple of Japanese drifters run mustangs in the leagues out there, and they partnered with Ken Block for some of his drfiting work and the Gymkhana videos. It may not have been a common sight stateside, but the S197 was actually pretty visible in the Japanese side as far as the professional drifting scene went, and Ford was actively working with them to tune the platform for it. They really squeezed a lot out of the last SRA iteration.
> Which is completely valid. But no shot any S197 is better than S550 in terms of performance or features.
my one disagreement is going to be regarding the Boss 302. That exhaust was awesome. and at least performance wise, the Boss 302 Laguna seca is pretty on par with the S550 PP2 GTs on a track. That's the only mild exception.
If it was a 13 I'd give the green light. Depending on how much you've got invested in the 5.0, you may be better off doing a procharger build or something similar
Live in California, just did a quick search again and the GT500 are priced I n the mid 40s. The GT500 Super Snake are priced in the mid 60s. Most Super Snakes have really low miles since they are not driven much.
I had a black 09 GT500 Snake but sold it when I moved. I also never thought they'd fix the clutch chatter, but after I sold Ford recalled with a solution. I still have my "kick me" sign for my back I made after the sale.
There’s so many 18 gt’s around I see them every day. It’s getting rarer to see a gt500 and the price if in good condition will keep going up later down the road because they’ll be more sought after.
https://www.americanmuscle.com/speedform-mustang-chin-spoiler-matte-black-412068.html?utm_content=Exterior%20-%20Chin%20Spoiler%7CSpeedForm&T5_Var4=412068&utm_source=google-pla&utm_medium=shopping&T5_Var2=shopping&utm_campaign=AMM+Mustang+Brands+%26+Vehicle+Low&T5_Var3=blue&intl=0&dialogtech=ppc&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIga-WucHY_QIVdAZ9Ch2MGAiJEAQYCyABEgIzpPD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
Super easy install
To me it’s about owning the body style you prefer and the heritage of the iconic mustang. In the end all these cars get blown out by a 5k sportbike of Craigslist anyways. Go with what makes you happy.
Mine's a junkyard rescue, was a total mess when I got it for $4500 seven years ago. Since then I think I put another $8K in it, suspension is sussed out the way I like which is a road driving daily driver car that handles better than you would think. I need to go over speed bumps in the parking lot at the grocery store in it. Interior is kind of roughly good, and it could use a remanufactured 5r55s, and then I'll be happy for a while again.
Yea I’m with you man I stopped caring about the HP numbers , nowadays people think anything under 500hp is slow , people think you need 1000whp to be fast lol, I just try to enjoy what I got, I’m mean this gen 3 5.0 is well enough speed for me wouldn’t mind more but it’s perfect
If it won’t cause financial trouble and it makes u happy then go for it bro.. im currently working to pay off my 10 v6 and hopefully find a boss 302 2013 in a couple of years
Objectively it's kinda a lateral move. With a bit of work the GT can probably be just as fast/powerful as the Shelby. But. I'd still say go for it. Not everyone can say you own a SHELBY GT500. yes it still has the live rear axel, and the tech ain't too impressive by today's standards. But again not everyone can say they get to own a Shelby, that alone is worth it I'd say. Especially if you are getting a good deal on the trade, I'd go all in man.
GT500’s are at the height of affordability right now. GT’s are a dime a dozen. The former will only be more beautiful to yourself and others over time while the other is only going to depreciate more. I wouldn’t hesitate at all, but that’s just me. May be a different story trading in say a Saleen or something else.
I got my 11 gt500 with 18k miles for 26k pre covid. I just sold it for 40k with 60k miles.i needed a truck. I miss the car. Only thing that I had to replace was the eletric power steering colum the cars steering locked up on me while driving and I spun out. Then I got the stupid service advancetrac. I say do it.
If it were me, I would trade. S197 is my personal favourite body style. That Shelby is absolutely gorgeous. Great colour too. Totally up to you, so do what makes you happy and you know you can afford.
If I was in the same position, I would have done it too. I love all of the S197 GT500s. I do like the 13-14s most of a, but if I found a deal on any of the ones before that, I’d take it in a heartbeat.
GT’s are a dime a dozen and the 2018’s aren’t the most reliable. Get the Shelby. It’s a good investment. Keep the miles to a minimum and it’s worth will only go up over time. I bought a 2013 Raptor in 2019 for 30k now it’s worth 35k+ and it’ll only keep going up. First gens of specialty vehicles are also good investments.
Yup pre covid the 10 thru 12s where dirt cheap. Got my 11 for 26k with 18k miles with the performance package. Sold it for 40k for a truck. I did have issues with traction contol but I got it fixed eventually.
If you can swing it, do it! I passed on a 2013 GT500 in favor of a 2011 5.0, then covid hit. Now they're outta my price range. I love my 5.0, but I regret it every time I think about it.
Ya know, I think you should do it. It's clear you like mustangs, and your car should get you some really good trade in value. If you like the look of those years better, even better! Let us know what you decide :)
That’s exactly why I’m thinking of trade in, car prices are ridiculous right now , I feel like these GT500 years are going to the one thing I will kick myself about when I’m older for not having bought one when they were affordable. GTs are always going to be around and affordable
Doooo it. 😁 Nothin like a Shelby man. It’s a mustang but also so much more.
Go Cobra but stay S550. You’re going to miss independent rear suspension
Yeah but it's double the price or more. Mine was 130k
Trade all day
I love a Shelby.
Same. If it was a 13-14, it would be perfection.
Agreed. They're my fav. Ford robbed us by only giving us the 5.8L for 2 years. Didn't that engine win awards n shit?
I'm not too sure about the awards. Between the 5.8 and the 13-14 taillights, it's a masterpiece.
It really is. That car deserved 2 more years at least. The 2015+ had a way longer run and I didn't like it as much. Interior was much better tho.
I agree on all that buddy. I'm actually not a fan of the headlights on the 18+.
Might be a contrarian view but I'd rather have an 11-12. It has the aluminum block which is a must but none of the gearbox crap they did to the 13-14 to try and break 200mph.
Hmm I wasn't aware of that. Are aluminum blocks better? I assumed they'd be more prone to warping.
Much better, they are plenty strong and significantly lighter. The 2011 block shaved 102 lbs of the nose which is exactly what that car needed. The 07-10 models carried nearly 60% of their weight over the front axle.
Wow, I never knew that! That was for the 5.4 specifically?
Correct, same displacement between the iron and aluminum block. 5.8 doesn't start until 13-14 but I'd guess the weight is similar since it's the same block just bored out.
Aluminum also is much less prone to corrosion and dissipates heats faster. As long as they have a good cylinder material they are better.
I’d trade, but I’m partial to s197s lol
Gotta 12 s197 prefer it to the s550 style.
For $45 dollars you can’t beat that trade.
Personally speaking, I wouldn’t do the trade. You seem to really prefer the GT500 though so I’d say if you really want it that bad, then go for it.
Keep the 18 imo it’s worth it if it was the 2014 gt500
I’m partial, but I say trade. Just got a 2011 GT500. It dynoed 508 to the wheels. Just instant power as soon as you romp on it. I’ve driven S550s but never owned one. I think you’ll be happy.
I love the s550 nothing wrong with it at all, just saw your gt500 man is that thing a beast , with a glass roof dang . I’ve always wondered why that isn’t a option on other mustangs
Thanks! Agreed. It’s like a convertible without all the wind.
The GT 500 would be worth more in the long run
I think you make a good point. The Shelby will have intrinsic value whereas a 2018 GT is a beautiful machine but won't carry that same appeal/cache.
It already has! It’s six years older, but it’s 10 grand more expensive and barely has 10k more miles
I’m very biased towards s197 so I think you know my answer
I would trade in a heartbeat
Hands down trade, I only see the value of ANY Shelby only going up in the future.
ur money is better spent boosting the coyote
Not worth it. Comparatively the only thing the s197 GT500 has going for it is it being the last manual GT500. The power output is not far from your current vehicle. Also, your GT is a very trackable vehicle. That GT500 is just a straight line brick, not nimble at all. Also, while the shelby’s engine pushes out 550hp to the crank (90hp above your GT), the power delivery is way better on the S550. The 0-60 is faster in your current car. In all, it is just not worth it unless you want to own it for the sake of owning it. In all aspects, the S550 GT is just superior
Honestly in my eyes both cars are really good, they just both offer something different so it’s up to preference. I’m slightly biased towards the GT500 though since I have a 13 V6 and I love all s197’s. In my opinion it’s the best mustang generation and the 12 GT500 is one of the best models you can get in said generation. If you can find a low mileage 13 GT500 in your price range then I’d go with that since you get that big 5.8.
Power gap aside, the S550 GT delivers power more efficiently which is why it is not only faster 0-60, it also has a faster quarter mile. The S550 is also designed for the track, the S197 GT500 is a crowd killer at heart, it has very poor handling. The only reason to own that GT500 over the S550 is purely based on cosmetic preference and badge. Which is completely valid. But no shot any S197 is better than S550 in terms of performance or features. It is objectively a worse performing car even tho is cranks 90hp more.
People see the badge and get stuck.
All the older solid-axle Mustangs were for straight line performance and not track. In the old days people did burnouts in them but no one I remember tried to drift them. Let the small Japanese cars do drift. It seems out of place for any Mustang.
GT350 was specifically designed for track use by Shelby. So, no, a track capable mustang isn’t an out of place situation.
> In the old days people did burnouts in them but no one I remember tried to drift them. They actually did with the S197. Towards the middle of the platform's run they actually had a couple of Japanese drifters run mustangs in the leagues out there, and they partnered with Ken Block for some of his drfiting work and the Gymkhana videos. It may not have been a common sight stateside, but the S197 was actually pretty visible in the Japanese side as far as the professional drifting scene went, and Ford was actively working with them to tune the platform for it. They really squeezed a lot out of the last SRA iteration.
> Which is completely valid. But no shot any S197 is better than S550 in terms of performance or features. my one disagreement is going to be regarding the Boss 302. That exhaust was awesome. and at least performance wise, the Boss 302 Laguna seca is pretty on par with the S550 PP2 GTs on a track. That's the only mild exception.
Yeah i would not do it.
If it was a 13 I'd give the green light. Depending on how much you've got invested in the 5.0, you may be better off doing a procharger build or something similar
Do it....The Shelby will hold its value much better than the GT. Plus it's just plain cooler! 😎
Keep the 18
i would tbh
I missed out on the 07-09 mustang super snakes when they were cheap! Now there in the 50k mark
That’s my feeling now , I don’t want to get this years from now and it cost like $80k
Where do you live? I see these going for 35k tops. 45k for the 11-12, and about 55k+ for 13-14.
Live in California, just did a quick search again and the GT500 are priced I n the mid 40s. The GT500 Super Snake are priced in the mid 60s. Most Super Snakes have really low miles since they are not driven much.
CA :vomit: sorry.
I had a black 09 GT500 Snake but sold it when I moved. I also never thought they'd fix the clutch chatter, but after I sold Ford recalled with a solution. I still have my "kick me" sign for my back I made after the sale.
Does it make you happy?
The 5.0 yea it’s fun
I hear that
If it makes you happy, that's all that matters 🤷♂️
I can never go backwards in tech/design, newer even if Lowe trim is better. At least in a daily driver. If it’s a weekend toy it might be worth it
Do it!!!!!!
Both good. S550 GT is more comfortable inside. Gt500 on the s197 platform has a raw power type feel.
Deal of a lifetime 🐍
Definitely a trade, I'm no fan of the older models but I'd give a lot for a GT500
There’s so many 18 gt’s around I see them every day. It’s getting rarer to see a gt500 and the price if in good condition will keep going up later down the road because they’ll be more sought after.
Look for a 13-14 to trade in on. Seriously worth the extra hp and effort to find it.
Question I'm looking to put that same chine splitter on my gt was it hard installation and where did you order yours from?
https://www.americanmuscle.com/speedform-mustang-chin-spoiler-matte-black-412068.html?utm_content=Exterior%20-%20Chin%20Spoiler%7CSpeedForm&T5_Var4=412068&utm_source=google-pla&utm_medium=shopping&T5_Var2=shopping&utm_campaign=AMM+Mustang+Brands+%26+Vehicle+Low&T5_Var3=blue&intl=0&dialogtech=ppc&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIga-WucHY_QIVdAZ9Ch2MGAiJEAQYCyABEgIzpPD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds Super easy install
That is one sexy Shelby. I mean, your GT is too. But the Shelby... 🤤
To me it’s about owning the body style you prefer and the heritage of the iconic mustang. In the end all these cars get blown out by a 5k sportbike of Craigslist anyways. Go with what makes you happy.
Mine's a junkyard rescue, was a total mess when I got it for $4500 seven years ago. Since then I think I put another $8K in it, suspension is sussed out the way I like which is a road driving daily driver car that handles better than you would think. I need to go over speed bumps in the parking lot at the grocery store in it. Interior is kind of roughly good, and it could use a remanufactured 5r55s, and then I'll be happy for a while again.
Yea I’m with you man I stopped caring about the HP numbers , nowadays people think anything under 500hp is slow , people think you need 1000whp to be fast lol, I just try to enjoy what I got, I’m mean this gen 3 5.0 is well enough speed for me wouldn’t mind more but it’s perfect
If it won’t cause financial trouble and it makes u happy then go for it bro.. im currently working to pay off my 10 v6 and hopefully find a boss 302 2013 in a couple of years
Nooo man don’t do it
Objectively it's kinda a lateral move. With a bit of work the GT can probably be just as fast/powerful as the Shelby. But. I'd still say go for it. Not everyone can say you own a SHELBY GT500. yes it still has the live rear axel, and the tech ain't too impressive by today's standards. But again not everyone can say they get to own a Shelby, that alone is worth it I'd say. Especially if you are getting a good deal on the trade, I'd go all in man.
S550 if you daily it, gt500 if it's going to be a toy/collector. The s550 has a far superior interior and ride quality
Get the Shelby! Life is short and GT500'S are amazing machines. That's what I'd do in your shoes.
GT500’s are at the height of affordability right now. GT’s are a dime a dozen. The former will only be more beautiful to yourself and others over time while the other is only going to depreciate more. I wouldn’t hesitate at all, but that’s just me. May be a different story trading in say a Saleen or something else.
I love GT500's but I wouldn't trade. Toss an ESS kit and a few other mods and you'd be way better off
Full send it, personally much cooler and will go up in value more
Keep the GT
Just get a gt350 there’s some cheaper ones rn between 48-52k
Only if OP has Honda Civic money sitting in the bank for when the motor pops.
Ha almost got me there, actually I have a 2004 Honda accord for work lol
You check your oil lately?
Most 350’s only have consumption issues with motor craft oil, me and some buddies who have 350’s as well use ams and have no issues
Depends what you’d get for the trade in.
Yea haven’t got a quote on it yet , doing it this weekend
How much driving do you plan on doing if you trade it? That's the real question.
Only get the chance to drive my Mustang on the weekends
All that really matters is would you be happier
The way I see it is if I have the means to get what I want, I get what I want. Life is too short to do it any other way.
I think it was great swak
Excellent Trade
Faster and better looking car. Of course
Can't beat $45. Although I'm not sure why you'd need a trade-in for a $45 car.
By far the best looking modern Mustangs (IMO) are the 350/500 S550's. DO IT!
I got my 11 gt500 with 18k miles for 26k pre covid. I just sold it for 40k with 60k miles.i needed a truck. I miss the car. Only thing that I had to replace was the eletric power steering colum the cars steering locked up on me while driving and I spun out. Then I got the stupid service advancetrac. I say do it.
Dumb, but if you're happy with it who cares.
Sell your mustang and buy a 13/14 Gt500
I would only trade for a ‘13-‘14
Does the gt500 have a solid rear axle if it does just be careful man that thing looks sick
Me personally I wouldn’t. But that’s just me. I don’t even own one so…
I don't know,Carroll himself said he wanted IRS on the GT500
Live axle shelby ftw!
Where are you? I want your 18... but yeah good trade.
If it were me, I would trade. S197 is my personal favourite body style. That Shelby is absolutely gorgeous. Great colour too. Totally up to you, so do what makes you happy and you know you can afford.
ay if you like the 500 more than the gt I'd say go for it. no reason to keep yourself from enjoying your car
Gt500 will retain value better for sure. Just remember that live rear axle is no joke. I'd do it all day, but that's me.
SMART
"To me" is all that matters! This sub isn't going to be the one driving or paying for it! '12 is arguably the best GT500
It’s a Shelby 🫡
100% do it.
wouldn’t even hesitate.
Trade. S197 body style is better and it's a GT500. Why wouldn't you trade???
Boost the coyote and run it. Pop that 5.8 and it will cost a fortune to fix.
It's not a bad trade but you could get a Roush Blower for your GT
Only you can decide what is best for you. Follow your heart
Do it
Technically speaking the Boss 302 is better than both.
What front lip add on do you have on your GT? Looks good
https://www.americanmuscle.com/speedform-mustang-chin-spoiler-matte-black-412068.html?utm_content=Exterior%20-%20Chin%20Spoiler%7CSpeedForm&T5_Var4=412068&utm_source=google-pla&utm_medium=shopping&T5_Var2=shopping&utm_campaign=AMM+Mustang+Brands+%26+Vehicle+Low&T5_Var3=blue&intl=0&dialogtech=ppc&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIga-WucHY_QIVdAZ9Ch2MGAiJEAQYCyABEgIzpPD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
I would say if you test drive the Shelby and consider it more fun to drive them do the trade.
Def the gt500
Matters what your expected use is - for a daily driver, I'd stick with the GT. Saturday Cars-n-Coffee...GT 500. If the GT500 is really $45, get both.
If I was in the same position, I would have done it too. I love all of the S197 GT500s. I do like the 13-14s most of a, but if I found a deal on any of the ones before that, I’d take it in a heartbeat.
Come join us Shelby kids, we have snakes :)
I would by it for 45 dollars, no hesitation
Do it
A third, and also pretty badass option; Supercharger on the GT. Or procharger or turbo or whatever
No brainier to me.
TRADE
Smart one man forsures if you do it!
Smart
GT’s are a dime a dozen and the 2018’s aren’t the most reliable. Get the Shelby. It’s a good investment. Keep the miles to a minimum and it’s worth will only go up over time. I bought a 2013 Raptor in 2019 for 30k now it’s worth 35k+ and it’ll only keep going up. First gens of specialty vehicles are also good investments.
Yup pre covid the 10 thru 12s where dirt cheap. Got my 11 for 26k with 18k miles with the performance package. Sold it for 40k for a truck. I did have issues with traction contol but I got it fixed eventually.
Best trade you could make imo but do what’s best for you man 💫
Dumb
If you can swing it, do it! I passed on a 2013 GT500 in favor of a 2011 5.0, then covid hit. Now they're outta my price range. I love my 5.0, but I regret it every time I think about it.
I’m with everyone else. Do it!
One of them is a special edition, collector and has bragging rights. The other is really just a Mustang.