Shelby unveils the 2026 Super Snake R: a track-inspired Mustang with over 830 horsepower.

Shelby American has officially introduced the 2026 Shelby Super Snake R, a limited-production, high-performance version of the Ford Mustang designed to deliver supercar-level power and track capability. Revealed on October 19, the car combines extreme engineering with heritage styling, inspired by Shelby’s long racing history and founder Carroll Shelby’s original vision for American performance vehicles.

Based on the 2024 seventh-generation Ford Mustang GT, the Super Snake R is powered by a supercharged 5.0-litre V8 engine producing over 830 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful street-legal Mustangs ever built by Shelby. Available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 10-speed automatic, the vehicle has been engineered with a track-first philosophy, but remains fully street-legal.

“The Super Snake R embodies the spirit of Shelby: raw performance, motorsport DNA, and limited exclusivity,” said Joe Conway, Chief Executive Officer of Shelby American, during the vehicle's debut. “It’s built for those who want a Mustang that goes far beyond stock.”

Track-bred performance for the road

The Super Snake R was developed as an evolution of the traditional Super Snake platform, first introduced in 1967. The “R” badge indicates a direct link to Shelby’s current motorsports programme, which returned to factory-backed competition in 2023. Many components in the Super Snake R are derived from Shelby’s racing projects, including advanced suspension upgrades and aerodynamic elements.

The 2026 model features adjustable performance suspension, stiffer sway bars, and a Brembo braking system optimised for high-speed endurance driving. The aluminium forged wheels measure 20 inches and are wrapped in high-performance tyres developed specifically for dual road and track use.

Aerodynamic enhancements include a vented carbon fibre bonnet, front splitter, side skirts, and an aggressive new rear wing, all made of lightweight carbon fibre. These additions not only reduce weight but also increase downforce and cooling efficiency, especially at high speeds.

The exhaust system, developed in partnership with Borla, produces a distinctive tone, and a revised intake system ensures maximum air delivery to the supercharged engine. Additional cooling units have been integrated into the vehicle’s architecture, drawing from Shelby’s experience in endurance racing.

Distinctive Shelby design and limited production

Each Super Snake R will be individually numbered and entered into the official Shelby Registry. Exterior styling elements include Super Snake R badging, bespoke racing stripes, a custom front fascia, blacked-out trim, and optional heritage graphics reminiscent of 1960s race liveries. Shelby has stated that the car will be available in multiple exterior colours, including limited-edition schemes exclusive to the R model.

Inside, the Super Snake R features a track-inspired cockpit with Recaro racing seats, carbon fibre trim, and leather-and-Alcantara upholstery with contrast stitching. The steering wheel, sills, and dashboard are all adorned with Super Snake logos, while a rear-seat delete option and roll-bar package are available for customers intending to track the car regularly.

Despite its racing roots, the car includes full digital instrumentation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment system. Shelby notes that every car will be built-to-order, with configurations ranging from high-spec street use to more focused track-ready setups.

Production of the 2026 Shelby Super Snake R will be highly limited, though the company has not disclosed the exact number of units to be made. Vehicles will be assembled in the United States at Shelby American’s Las Vegas facility, with international distribution handled by authorised Shelby Mod Shops. Pricing is expected to start around USD150,000 (€142,000) depending on base model and customisation options.

A tribute to Carroll Shelby’s vision

The Super Snake name dates back to 1967, when Carroll Shelby created a one-off GT500 fitted with a racing engine sourced from Ford’s Le Mans-winning GT40 programme. The result was so powerful and expensive to produce that only one was ever made. That car became a legend among Mustang enthusiasts and set the precedent for future Super Snake models.

Carroll Shelby’s legacy is inseparable from American automotive culture. A former chicken farmer turned Le Mans-winning driver and entrepreneur, Shelby rose to prominence in the 1960s by creating high-performance cars that beat European rivals. His company, Shelby American, began modifying Mustangs in 1965 with the GT350, setting the tone for a decades-long partnership with Ford.

“The only difference between men and boys is the price of their toys,” Shelby once said, a quote that still resonates with fans of the brand today.

Shelby American continues to honour his legacy not only through road cars but also through motorsport. The “R” designation in the new model highlights Shelby’s recent return to racing with the Mustang GT3, which competes in international endurance series under the Shelby banner.

Designed for collectors and enthusiasts

With its track-inspired engineering, carbon fibre components, and extreme power output, the Super Snake R 2026 targets a niche audience of collectors and driving enthusiasts seeking exclusivity and performance. Shelby expects strong interest from loyal brand followers and Mustang collectors worldwide.

“Everything about the Super Snake R is built to thrill, from the sound of the supercharger to the precision of the handling,” said Gary Patterson, President of Shelby American. “It’s a machine that reflects who we are as a performance brand—and who Carroll Shelby was as a driver and a visionary.”

The 2026 Super Snake R is now available for order through authorised Shelby dealers, with initial deliveries expected to begin in early 2025.

Shelby Super Snake R 2026 – Quick facts and curiosities

Origin of the name: The “Super Snake” name was originally used in 1967 for a one-off GT500 fitted with a 427 cubic-inch racing V8 from the Ford GT40. It was so powerful—and expensive—it was never put into production.

The “R” in Super Snake R: The “R” stands for Racing, and connects this version of the Super Snake to Shelby’s 2023 return to factory-backed motorsport with the Mustang GT3.

Limited production: While exact numbers have not been disclosed, Shelby confirmed that the Super Snake R 2026 will be produced in extremely limited quantities, making it a high-value item for collectors.

Carroll Shelby’s quote: One of Carroll’s most famous quips was, “If you’re going to build a car, build a fast car. And if it’s not fast enough—make it faster.”

Las Vegas factory: All Super Snake R units will be hand-assembled at Shelby’s headquarters in Las Vegas, Nevada, where fans can tour the facility and view Shelby heritage vehicles on display.