Shelby CSX

The Shelby CSX was a limited-production performance automobile based on the Dodge Shadow. Offered by Shelby from 1987 through 1989, the Shelby CSX was the most common Shelby vehicle of the 1980s.


CSX

The first Shelby CSX appeared in 1987. Power came from Shelby's Turbo II 2.2 L I4, with 175 hp (130 kW) and 175 ft.lbf (237 Nm). Performance was good with a 0 to 60 mph time of 7.0 s.

Shock absorbers and springs were replaced, and Daytona Shelby Z rear discs were added. Once again, Shelby used his own wheels. Outside badging was more restrained than other Shelby offerings.

750 1987 CSXes were sold, priced at $13,495. There was no optional equipment.


CSX-T

In 1966, Shelby created a special line of Shelby Mustangs for the Hertz car rental company. Shelby repeated this trick in 1988 with the creation of the CSX-T for the Thrifty rental company. The CSX-T was only sold to Thrifty, and 1,001 were produced.

The CSX-T was mechanically similar to the 1987 CSX with one major exception: The non-intercooled Turbo I engine was used. Two variations were made, an intercooled version given to the president of Thrifty and a version with a factory sunroof given to the president's daughter.


CSX-VNT

The final CSX was 1989's CSX-VNT. This would be the last Shelby Dodge, and marked two notable technological advances: the introduction of a variable-nozzle turbo and the application of composite wheels.

The engine was the new Turbo IV. The variable vanes were computer controlled and needed no wastegate. Instead, they adjusted the flow of exhaust gasses to spool up quickly and provide strong power. Power remained at 175 hp (130 kW), but torque was up to 205 ft.lbf (278 Nm). Car and Driver magazine was impressed with the engine's flexibility and top-gear acceleration.

The composite Fiberide wheels were also a first. Made of reinforced fiberglass, they were lighter than contemporary wheels.

Production was limited to 500 vehicles (including two prototypes) and Carroll Shelby's involvement with Dodge was over.