Shelby Registry

1989 CSX

1989 was the last year Shelby would create a Dodge-based front wheel drive car.

The engine was an 88 Turbo II converted to Turbo IV specs. The intercooler and tuned, one-piece intake manifold were used again but a different turbo design was used. Shelby installed a Garrett turbo with variable nozzles. At low turbo speeds, the blades would decrease the volume of the turbine housing, causing the turbo to accelerate quickly. Once up to speed, the blades allowed higher boost levels. The nozzles negated the need for a wastegate and the turbo was controlled by the car's computer.

This was the first VNT ever seen on a production car. And while they did not raise the boost level, it did change the torque rating to 205lb-ft at 2100rpm. Acceleration didn't differ much from the 87 CSX, until the car was accelerating on a roll. Car and Driver showed acceleration in top gear from 30 to 50 and from 50 to 70 had decreased by about 3 seconds.

Monroe Formula GP shocks and struts, larger sway bars, and 195/60VR-15 Goodyear Eagle GT+4s make up the suspension changes.

The interior was cloth with a Shelby pattern on the seats and door panels. Normal instrumentation was augmented with a center console boost gauge labeled Shelby Turbo and the obligatory leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The exterior was the most conspicuous change. Shelby added a large, very deep front airdam, special lower side moldings, an airdam below the rear bumper and a larger wing on the trunklid. The paint was Exotic Red with gold CSX decals. Another first for production cars was the use of gold 5-spoke Fiberide wheels made of a fiberglass-reinforced plastic that are stronger and lighter than aluminum.

Two available options: Goodyear Gatorbacks 225/50VR15 and Recaro seats.