Interest in the life and career of Carroll Shelby has increased in the past several years, thanks to a feature film starring Matt Damon and Christian Bale (Ford vs Ferrari) and multiple documentaries detailing the exploits of the racing legend. Shelby was known for getting the most not only out of himself, but in squeezing every ounce of power and performance out of his equipment. It started with the Shelby Cobra in the 1960s and continues today with the Shelby American branded Shelby-F150 Super Snake.
Perhaps, too much was made by some of the relatively small increase in horsepower with the 2021 F-150 Super Snake, supercharger equipped edition edging up from 770 horsepower to 775 horsepower, Then again, that is the true essence of the iconic racer/designer. Squeeze out every horsepower and maximize every advantage.
Much of the discussion of the modest 5 hp increase seems to diminish the overriding larger factor that this is a pick-up truck that is approaching the threshold of 800 hp. That is impressive by any standard. It certainly shouldn’t diminish the fact that both the Sport and two-door editions can muscle their way from zero to 60 mph in just 3.45 seconds and zero to 100 mph in 8.3 seconds. Those aren’t just stats. That’s real acceleration.
The 2021 Shelby F-150 Super Snake retains its almost defiant exterior appearance and large, bold grill with a jutting front splitter. Its lower suspension and 22-inch wheels give it perfect posture. Upgraded brakes help you keep this snake under control.
Shelby is creating just 600 total of these trucks (300 of each model) and the 2021 Shelby F-150 Super Snake is priced accordingly at about $98,000. Now, you could purchase an edition without the supercharger and drop the price about $8,000. That, however, would also drop the horsepower from 775 hp to about 400 hp. Who would do that?
This limited edition F-150 has an office-like interior with all the expected toys and conveniences. It has an increased level of storage making it practical for work and for family travels. There are two-tone leather recovers and stitched headrests and other interior and exterior branding touches. Billet style racing pedals add to the experience behind the wheel of the Super Snake and many other features and upgrades are available if your budget allows. The truck also includes wireless software updates, eliminating those pesky trips to the dealer for ECU updates.
Maybe you don’t need a pickup truck that can get to 60 mph in less than 3.5 seconds. Perhaps you won’t require use of its full 775 hp. You may even be able to live a full-life without experiencing a Shelby inspired vehicle. But wouldn’t it be nice?