The ‘Shelby Series’ Returns With New 800HP Shelby American Series 2

Shelby American announced the creation and sale of a new Shelby Series 2 car at the Shelby LA facility on May 17. The Series 2 comes powered by Ford with over 800 hp and is an update on the original 1999 Shelby Series 1 created by Carroll Shelby. The Series 1 was the manifestation of his desire to build a car that was “pure Shelby” rather then work off a chassis or design in partnership with other automakers.

“Carroll always intended for that innovative chassis to be the first in a line of modern sports cars, which is why he called it the Series 1,” said Joe Conway, CEO of Shelby American. “The new Shelby Series 2 is the evolution of that minimalist car, offering breathtaking performance in a modern two-seat roadster.”

Shelby Series 2 showing | Photography by Nicole Ellan James

Though the Series 1 had a fresh design, its rear-wheel drive, front-engine layout was traditional and the car suffered many setbacks such as a weight increase, a motor that was less than promised which resulted in rising production costs, lawsuits, and subsequent production delays.

In June 2018, Shelby American is slated to produce four Series 2 cars per year. Each car comes roller configured for the Carroll Shelby Engine Company 427 aluminum FE big block or Windsor small-block coupled to a custom designed ZF 5 speed transaxle.

Under the hood of the Series 2

“While the Shelby Series 2 is based on the first-generation car, it’s a significant leap forward,” said Gary Patterson, Shelby American President. “It blends old-school craftsmanship and current technology, pushing the roadster into supercar territory. It is the perfect car for collectors and enthusiasts globally who want the ultimate in exclusivity and to be completely engaged with the driving experience.”

The Shelby Series 2 emerged through a unique agreement between Shelby and Wingard Motorsports to create a handful of cars with the choice of an aluminum, carbon fiber or one of the first titanium car bodies. Wingard can finish out the roller for customers, too.

Gary Patterson with Shelby Series 2

“Several years ago, Wingard Motorsports purchased the remaining Shelby Series 1 chassis and parts,” said Gary Patterson, Shelby American President. “Working with Shelby, founder Bob Wingard revised the car to reduce weight by maximizing the integration of billeted aluminum and carbon fiber components. He further refined the suspension, braking, and drivetrain to allow an increase of more than twice the horsepower of the original car. The Series 2 is now more than 12% lighter and supports over 800 horsepower.”

The Shelby Series 2 is composed of the original aluminum honeycomb monocoque frames with next-generation hardware. It uses an inboard cantilevered suspension design for the front and rear, which minimizes the sprung wheel weight. Penske Shocks fine-tuned the suspension at their facility in Charlotte. The car has a big brake system with 6-piston calipers on all corners and custom 19” monoblock performance wheels with Pilot Cup 2 tires.

Series 2 details

Standard drivetrain configuration is for a 5 speed ZF transaxle torque tube coupled to a multi-disc clutch system mated to a Carroll Shelby Engine Company 427 FE or 427 Windsor motor.

Other engines are available as well as multi-point seat belts and 4 or 6 point roll bars. However, the Shelby Series 2 doesn’t come with cupholders.

Each commissioned Series 2 is a unique and “one-of-one” creation. Custom interiors designed to accommodate most drivers with an incredible six inches of peddle adjustment and carbon fiber Carroll Shelby signature seats. Aluminum bodies are available in a brushed, polished or painted finish with the Shelby signature racing stripes.

Aluminum bodies are available in a brushed, polished or painted finish

“While the Shelby Series 2 is based on the first-generation car, it’s a significant leap forward,” said Patterson. “It blends old-school craftsmanship and current technology, pushing the roadster into supercar territory. It is the perfect car for collectors and enthusiasts globally who want the ultimate in exclusivity and to be completely engaged with the driving experience.”

Those who buy a Shelby Series 2 are treated to a weekend training session at Spring Mountain Raceway near Las Vegas. Each car also has a one-year warranty for its parts, labor, and painted finishes.

Each car is built to order and bear a Shelby American CSX5500 series serial number that recorded in the official Shelby American Registry.

For more information, see Shelby American. 

About the author

Nicole Ellan James

As an automotive journalist and avid car enthusiast, Nicole Ellan James has a passion for automotive that is reflected in every aspect of her lifestyle. Follow Nicole on Instagram and Facebook - @nicoleeellan
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