Los Angeles, CA – Ford might have tried to keep their first reveal a secret, but many got wind of the Shelby GT350 making its way to Los Angeles.

In a pre-reveal ahead of the Los Angeles Auto Show, Ford showed off its most powerful naturally aspirated engine ever produced. The Shelby Mustang will use the 5.2-litre V8 that uses a flat-plane crankshaft and produces over 500 hp and above 400 lb.-ft. of torque. Specific numbers have not come out yet, neither has a 0-100 km/h speed, but we do know that it will be fitted with a six-speed manual transmission and a Torsen limited-slip differential.

We might not have a speed test or red-line numbers, but Ford is setting this GT350 to have a track set-up that can be used legally on the streets. High performance has always been at the core of the Shelby brand and they are bringing it with this new Mustang variant.

Most aspects of the new GT350 serves its higher performance purpose. It's not set-up like a typical V8, as the design evenly spreads out all crank pins at 180-degree intervals to reduce overlap of exhaust pressures and allow for improved cylinder breathing.

You're treated to a stiffer chassis, Recaro front seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, large Brembo six-piston brakes, 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels on Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, and a Ford-first MagneRide dampers.

Choose between five driving modes that adjusts a selection of steering feel, stability and traction control and exhaust noise.

“When we started working on this car, we wanted to build the best possible Mustang for the places we most love to drive – challenging back roads with a variety of corners and elevation changes – and the track on weekends,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development.

The GT350's hood has been modernized with a lower and more sloping look. The front fascia looks more aggressive, not just for appeal, but to help the lower front splitter providing more downforce. The same styling continues with new aluminum fenders that allow for a wider front track and wider wheel arches.

The Shelby GT350 will be on hand at the LA Auto Show when it begins on Wednesday, November 20th.