The heart of Ford’s Mustang Shelby GT350/350R is a normally-aspirated 5.2-liter V8 that cranks out a phenomenal 526 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. This is Ford’s most powerful engine without any type of forced induction. Plus, the flat-plane crank design sings gloriously at wide-open throttle. Check out this TFLcar ‘run what you brung’ video to see how a GT350 performs one mile above sea level what it’s like when used as a daily driver from an owner’s perspective.
The Shelby GT350 and GT350R are from Ford’s Performance group and are not some dressed up pony car made to look fast. Everything about the GT350/GT350R is purpose-built with performance in mind. In addition to the new engine, the modern muscle car has a redesigned suspension, body panels specific to the model, and a long list of tweaks that make it the best Shelby GT350 yet.
This TFL Car video explains how the Shelby GT350R is more track-focused compared with the GT350 and shows the pony car flexing its muscles around Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca Raceway.
| 2016 Shelby GT350 | 2015 Shelby GT350R | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 5.2L Flat Plane Crank V8 | 5.2L Flat Plane Crank V8 |
| Power | 526 hp @ 7500 rpm | 526 hp @ 7500rpm |
| Torque | 429 lb-ft @ 4750 rpm | 429 lb-ft @ 4750 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain Layout | rear-wheel drive | rear-wheel drive |
| Curb Weight | 3,760 lbs. | 3,655 lbs. |
| MagneRide Suspension | No | Yes |
| Wheels | 19-in cast aluminum alloy | 19-in carbon fiber |
| Tires | GT350 specific Michelin Pilot Sport | GT350R specific Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 |
| Brakes | 15.5-in rotors, 6-piston – front 15.0-in rotors, 4-piston – rear |
15.5-in rotors, 6-piston – front 15.0-in rotors, 4-piston – rear |
| Base Price | $49,995* | $63,495* |
* Includes $1,300 gas-guzzler tax
Track Package:
- MagneRide suspension
- Integrated Driver Control (IDC) system
- Raised decklid spoiler
- Aluminum tower strut brace
- Engine oil, transmission and differential coolers
- Heavy duty front springs
- Price: $6,500
