Shelby GT500 Reigns Superior in Race Against Tesla Model S Plaid

Here is a prime example of internal combustion technology with a century of innovation under its belt and how it can hang with the new and shiny toys of the next generation. We can’t deny the accomplishments of Tesla, a brand that originated in 2008, but Shelby has 56 years of experience under its belt building iconic muscle cars. The Tesla Model S Plaid is no joke, especially with its 1,020 horsepower output, but this Shelby GT500 reigned superior in a clash of the times.

Nothing compares to the intoxicating smell of fuel and catless exhausts we fell in love from the times of helping our parents or grandparents work on their cars in the front yard. The evolution of combustion engines is a sight to behold and a far cry from the horsepower output of the Flathead V8. Even though electric cars have burst onto the scene, showing off their capabilities, muscle cars have a lot left in the tank.

It’s proof you can teach an old dog new tricks, and the Shelby GT500 shows us in the video below. The latest Tesla Model S Plaid is a 1,020 horsepower 0-60 in less than two-second machine that’s quieter than a Prius. It’s considered the quickest production car on the planet for the time being. Obviously, it’s faster than a stock Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, but this Mustang has some tricks up its sleeve.

The 2020 GT500 comes from the factory with a 5.2L Predator V8, producing an impressive 760 horsepower and 625-pound-feet of torque. The car in question belongs to the Mustang tuner, Palm Beach Dyno, and has received various upgrades that include headers, larger injectors, a ported blower, smaller pulley, a tune, and drag radials. It allows the car to put out 1,100 horsepower. Did we mention that’s at the wheels?

The GT500 also boats an ultra-quick seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, which is quite the addition for straight-line performance. With all the goodies attached, was it enough to take on the quickest production car and its instant electric torque? The answer is a resounding yes!

The two cars went head-to-head in a few roll races, with the GT500 running a 7.91-second pass at an incredibly quick 159.63 MPH, overtaking the Tesla, which ran 154.94 MPH and a 7.97. After a few rolls, the video cuts over to the cars racing from a stop. The results are equally impressive, which you can see in the video below.

Electric cars should take note. It’s a great to see these internal combustion vehicles putting up a fight and holding onto the crown. We’re taking the Shelby, what about you?