04f10 2013 shelby gt500 convertible chicago 1328729957 Chicago: 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Convertible is your toupees worst nightmare Car News and Review

Slather on an extra glob of Gorilla Glue adhesive, as the 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Convertible is going to seriously strain hairpieces. Like its GT500 Coupe sibling, introduced late last year at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the drop-top is fitted with a supercharged 5.8-liter V8 making an astounding 650 horsepower and 600 pound-feet of torque, which makes it the most powerful eight-cylinder production engine in the universe.

Ford says the new model, equipped with the optional Performance Package that includes Bilstein electronic adjustable dampers, is capable of running Sebring International Raceway around 3.5 seconds quicker per lap compared to the 2011 and 2012 models (both down 100 horsepower against the 2013 model). Curb weight should be a couple hundred pounds heavier than its closed-roof cousin courtesy of extra bracing on the power-operated convertible soft top.

The Shelby GT500, reinforced at AutoAlliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Michigan, will blast into showrooms this summer. Our best guess for pricing says the 2013 model will start just under $ 65,000.