Ford and Shelby pair up on GT 'R Model'

Ford and Shelby collaborating on a Mustang isn't news, it's the norm. But when they're doing something they haven't done in more than 40 years, and the price tops $100,000, it must be something special.

In 1965, 37 Shelby GT350 "R Models" were tearing it up at autocross tracks across the country. Jerry Titus took his race-spec Mustang all the way to the SCCA championship.

Now, Shelby and Ford will again build 37 special-edition Shelby GT "R Models" to be featured as the Jerry Titus Drivers Edition. The car will honor his 1965 Class B production championship and the final year of the current-generation Mustang.

The "R Model" will be a purpose-built track car with the same 4.6-liter V8 that powers the Ford Shelby GT. The V8 will be equipped with a Ford Racing/Whipple Twin Screw supercharger, for a total of 550 hp.

The engine will be connected to the Tremec six-speed transmission from the GT500 with a short-throw shifter and a Grand Am-spec roll cage. It also features a side exhaust, racing brakes and unique Shelby-designed 18-inch wheels with racing tires.

The car won't be street legal, but Shelby says fans have been asking for a track-day car for some time. This new speed demon will cost $134,995.

By Jake Lingeman