A cobra is an animal you don’t want to mess with in the wild. Once the hood flares out, it means business and is ready to deliver a venomous bite. With that in mind, any vehicle with Shelby American’s iconic emblem embodies a similar concept. The latest model to flaunt the serpent is the GT500 CODE RED.

With its muscular stance and aggressive aerodynamic outline, this already comes off as one menacing machine. This modified Mustang is packing a 5.2-liter V8. With the aid of premium intercooled twin turbos, a custom fuel system, a new ECU, and more, the GT500 CODE RED is primed for performance.

The beast has no business on the streets as this track-only build boasts exceptional capabilities. The legendary shop says the coupe on 93 octane fuel can generate up to 1,000 horsepower and 780 lb-ft of torque. These are staggering numbers in contrast to some exotic supercars.

Nevertheless, the fun does not stop there. Pump it up with E85 Ethanol and things get crazy as the output soars to 1,300 horsepower and 1,000 lb-ft of torque. The GT500 CODE RED is more than just a powertrain tweak. Shelby is likewise outfitting the donor car with a collection of bespoke add-ons.

We’re looking at a “widebody package with new wheels, tires, axles, suspension tuning, interior, badges, carbon fiber hood, and more.” Shelby presents the GT500 CODE RED in black with red trims and livery – a motif that extends to various elements in the cockpit. We prefer to keep it this way, but clients can always personalize their rides. Only 10 units will be delivered per year with the limit set at 30 examples.

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Images courtesy of Shelby American