2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Convertible: Up Close

2012 Chicago Auto Show Coverage

When lowered, the top can be finished with a soft tonneau cover that helps streamline the rear of the car. The racing stripes continue over the trunk and down the tail, which has four exhaust tips tucked nicely under the bumper. The springboard-style rear wing is a little excessive, even for a performance car, but the five-spoke 20-inch wheels look great in a dark chrome finish.

With 650 horsepower and a top speed of more than 200 mph, you have to wonder if this is the pinnacle of Mustang performance — especially with an era of higher mandated fuel economy around the corner. If it is, this convertible isn’t a bad swan song.