How much horsepower does a Shelby Glhs have?
The Shelby GLHS delivers 175 horsepower. The 1987 Omni GLHS (Goes Like Hell Shelby) was a rare, factory-tuned version of Dodge’s front-wheel-drive hatchback, built to showcase Shelby’s performance philosophy in a compact package.
Overview of the Shelby GLHS
In 1987 Shelby American converted a limited run of Dodge Omni GLH-S models into the GLHS, with about 500 units produced for the U.S. market. The goal was to blend street manners with track-ready performance, a hallmark of Carroll Shelby’s approach to hot-rodding compact cars.
Power figures
Below are the core horsepower-related specifications most commonly cited by manufacturers and automotive historians. Note that measurements can vary slightly depending on test method and condition.
- Horsepower: 175 hp (130 kW)
- Torque: approximately 203 lb-ft (275 N·m)
- Production run: limited to about 500 U.S. units
These figures reflect the GLHS’s emphasis on delivering a brisk, turbocharged punch in a small, affordable package during the late 1980s.
Engineering and performance details
Engine and turbocharging
The GLHS used a 2.2-liter inline-four turbocharged engine with intercooling, tuned by Shelby to achieve 175 horsepower. The modifications included uprated intake/exhaust components and calibrated boost to maximize power within the era’s regulatory and packaging constraints.
Drivetrain and handling
Powered by front-wheel drive with a five-speed manual transmission, the GLHS benefited from Shelby’s suspension and braking upgrades to maintain composure at its power level. The setup aimed to deliver quicker acceleration while preserving daily drivability for a compact car platform.
Summary
The 1987 Shelby Omni GLHS stands out in automotive history as a rare, performance-tuned version of a practical hatchback. With 175 horsepower and a limited production run of about 500 U.S. units, it remains a sought-after collector item for enthusiasts who value Shelby’s direct approach to boosting horsepower in a small package.
