Supercharged 'R-Spec' Mustang set for 700hp

That's not a V8. This is a V8

The end of Holden production in Australia has apparently had no impact on its great rival's desire to provide the country with thumping great V8 muscle, as is evidenced by the introduction of a seriously hairy-chested Mustang. Co-developed by esteemed Aussie tuner Herrod Performance, the R-Spec is - according to an insider PH spoke to - on course to produce 700hp from a supercharged version of Ford's 5.0-litre V8, which would make it 241hp better than the Mustang Bullitt, 50hp better than the Camaro ZL1 and, ehem, 65hp better than the most powerful car Holden's ever produced. Crikey!

To achieve this monumental gain in power (and an anticipated 612lb ft of torque, we should add), the V8 - which is naturally-aspirated as standard - is force fed by a positive displacement supercharger with a 2.65-litre capacity and 12psi of boost. Ford promises "greater, smoother throttle response, drivability and engagement for a potent yet refined, comfortable daily-driver characteristics". We don't doubt it. And it gets better: the uprated unit drives the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox.

If luminous green paint of the pictured car, bespoke R-Spec 19-inch alloys and a new rear wing weren't enough of a signal, the new model will vocalise its added Australian-muscle via a Herrod performance exhaust system, which allows for more deep-throated decibels alongside the accompanying high-pitched soundtrack of an enormous blower. It's not all hooligan, however, because the exhaust can be switched through several modes, including a more docile Quiet setting. The cabin also comes kitted out with extra standard kit, including Ford's highest-level Sync3 infotainment tech and the top-spec B&O sound system, making the R-Spec somewhat plush, too.

The first cars will arrive in showrooms at the start of 2020, by which time the exact power output for the motor will have been confirmed. Whatever the final number, Ford will provide a five-year, unlimited mileage warranty, so even if it falls short of the 700hp mark by a few clicks, we suspect few will complain. In fact, given that the Mustang R-Spec will cost just $99,980, equivalent to just £55k of Her Majesty's money, we think all 500 (yep, it's limited run) will be snapped up rather quickly. If only they'd make one for the bloody Poms.

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