What is the top speed of the Dodge Shelby Omni?
The top speed of the Dodge Shelby Omni varies by model and era. In short, the original GLH version peaked around 125 mph, turbo variants reached roughly 135 mph, and the ultra‑rare GLHS topped out near 140 mph.
Dodge and Carroll Shelby collaborated to produce a lineage of high-performance Omnis from 1980 through 1987, blending small-car practicality with turbocharged performance. This article lays out the commonly cited top speeds for the main Shelby Omni variants and explains how testing conditions shaped those figures.
Variant performance at a glance
The following figures are the commonly cited top speeds associated with each Shelby Omni model, based on factory brochures and period road tests. They reflect ideal testing conditions and specific configurations (engine, gearing, wheels/tires).
- 1980–1981 Dodge Omni GLH (Goes Like Hell): top speed ≈ 125 mph (≈ 201 km/h).
- 1981–1983 Dodge Omni GLH Turbo (Turbo I): top speed ≈ 135 mph (≈ 217 km/h).
- 1987 Dodge Omni GLHS (Goes Like Hell S, limited edition): top speed ≈ 140 mph (≈ 225 km/h).
These figures illustrate how the Shelby-tuned Omnis moved beyond the stock K‑car performance, with the GLHS representing the pinnacle of the line in terms of top speed.
Context and what affects the numbers
Top speed figures are influenced by multiple variables beyond engine power alone, including gearing, aerodynamics, weight, tires, road surface, and testing methodology. Period brochures often cited optimal conditions—manual transmissions, specific tire sizes, and controlled testing tracks. Real-world numbers could vary, and factory claims sometimes differed from independent tests.
Summary
In summary, the Dodge Shelby Omni's top speed depends on the model: about 125 mph for the early GLH, around 135 mph for the turbo variants, and up to roughly 140 mph for the iconic GLHS. Across the line, these cars demonstrated how Shelby’s tuning transformed a practical compact into a spirited performance machine for its era.
How much is a 1990 Dodge Omni worth?
The value of a used 1990 Dodge Omni ranges from $523 to $2,087, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
How fast was the Dodge Omni GLH?
It zips to 60 in a mere 6.5 seconds, then keeps right on charging to a 130-mph terminal speed.
What is the top speed of the GT500?
The top speed of a Shelby GT500 is electronically limited to 180 mph, but its actual top speed is higher. With the limiter removed, the GT500 can reach speeds of over 200 mph, with some modified versions reaching over 210 mph.
This video shows a Shelby GT500 with a speed limiter removed reaching over 200 mph: 49sSOLO DRIVENYouTube · Nov 22, 2023
- Factory-limited top speed: The 2020 GT500 is electronically limited to 180 mph, due to factors like tire speed ratings.
- Unlimited top speed: When the limiter is disabled, the car can go faster.
- Some sources indicate an unrestricted top speed of around 215 mph, based on power and drag calculations.
- Modified GT500s have been recorded reaching speeds over 200 mph. One 2020 model with a modified exhaust and tires reached a record-breaking 210 mph.
- The Carbon Fiber Track Pack version is also noted to have an unlimited top speed of 212 mph, while the base model's is around 220 mph.
This video shows a test of the 2020 Shelby GT500 with its limiter removed: 46sStangModeYouTube · Apr 21, 2020
What Dodge goes 200 mph?
It was so fast they had to change the rules in order to stop it. And yes this thing would go over 200 mph in 1969 with a boot you could still load a set of golf clubs. Into.
