For those anxiously awaiting details about the proposed new Shelby Mustang, then be prepared for the latest “spy” photos. Motor Trend was provided with images of what appears to be a GT350R featuring some upgrades to the engine. Fortunately, FordNXT.com had some additional details on what these “spy” photos potentially uncovered.

Horsepower, handling, and history come to mind when the Shelby name is mentioned, so it is unlikely that the future of these cars is going to be remotely underpowered. According to FordNXT.com, the engine captured in the photos appears to be an unreleased supercharged Ford V-8 engine. Specifically, this engine could be a preview of the Predator 5.2-liter engine, although there are those who may disagree due to the quality of the images.

Photo Courtesy of Motor Trend

As for the power adder crowning the engine, FordNXT.com speculates that this could be VMP Performance offering; from their expert opinions, the photo may document the use of VMP’s 2.3-liter TVS, but they expect to see the R2650 TVS version.

It appears that engineers were testing this setup against the Mustang’s greatest rival, the ZL1 Camaro. Based on the aftermarket for all years of the Mustang, it may be possible to see this updated version hunting down some big game (here kitty kitty kitty). Looking back to the Fox-bodies, it is hard to deny the historical aftermarket support that has resulted in the substantial power gains over the years. Regardless of the final numbers, with the Shelby name on the car the new GT500 will surpass the previous benchmark of 662 horsepower.