Sixty years ago, Carroll Shelby took the unassuming first-generation Mustang—a car he jovially dubbed as “a secretary’s car”—and turned it into a mythic beast: the legendary Shelby GT350. Fast-forward to the present day, and Shelby American has proudly resurrected the iconic GT350 name, blending authentic muscle-car legacy with exhilarating, state-of-the-art performance. There’s not just a new Shelby GT350; enthusiasts now have the choice of the ultra-focused, track-ready GT350R variant as well. Both models are powered by a ferocious supercharged V8 engine and offer a traditional six-speed manual transmission, ensuring the raw, unfiltered driver engagement that Shelby aficionados crave.
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Car enthusiasts and Mustang purists may fondly remember the previous GT350 Ford released, known for its high-revving, naturally aspirated flat-plane crank V8 that screeched to a jaw-dropping 8,250rpm—an achievement that was unprecedented for the Mustang line. Now, this latest iteration of the GT350, reborn under the expert craftsmanship of Shelby American, rekindles its roots and injects a fresh surge of adrenaline into the mix.
For those who relish spirited drives on the streets with the occasional foray onto the racetrack, the standard GT350 makes a striking entrance with Ford’s mighty 5.0-liter ‘Coyote’ V8, delivering an impressive 473 hp straight from the get-go. But Shelby American won’t settle for ordinary. By fitting an optional Whipple supercharger, this powerhouse can catapult horsepower to a staggering 799. That represents a nearly 70% boost in power, measured using standard US 93-octane fuel. Just imagine the sheer possibilities when fueled with higher-octane European 98 or 99 fuel, catapulting this beast even further into supercar realms.
When it comes to transmission options, the Shelby GT350 stays true to its roots. Buyers can opt for the revered six-speed manual gearbox, which features a precise short-throw shifter that enhances the authentic driving dynamics for which the Shelby name is renowned. For those who desire convenience without sacrificing the thrill of rapid gear changes, Ford’s innovative ten-speed automatic transmission is also available, providing a seamless blend of daily drivability and performance responsiveness.
Shelby American has not skimped on chassis enhancements either; the GT350 boasts a lowered suspension system that brings it about an inch closer to the asphalt compared to the standard Mustang. Adjustability reigns supreme, with front and rear sway bars enabling enthusiasts to fine-tune handling to their specific tastes. Complementing the performance capabilities is a throatier Borla cat-back exhaust system, ensuring that the Shelby GT350 roars with a commanding growl. Adding to the sporty aesthetic are lightweight, 20-inch flow-forged alloy wheels, shod in Michelin Pilot Sport tires, engineered to provide exceptional grip for spirited driving.
Visually, the Shelby GT350 remains instantly identifiable, proudly showcasing its heritage through classic racing stripes that run boldly from front to back. The newly aggressive grille design pairs perfectly with a fierce front bumper that features enlarged brake cooling ducts, alongside a three-piece aerodynamic splitter. An aluminum bonnet, equipped with a central air extraction vent, not only elevates the car’s style but optimizes engine cooling as well. At the rear, you’ll find a prominent ducktail spoiler taken straight from the formidable Shelby Super Snake. For those who seek even greater aerodynamic prowess, an optional larger spoiler is available.
Meanwhile, the limited-edition GT350R takes performance to a whole new level, boasting an impressive 819 hp supercharged V8 exclusively paired with the beloved manual transmission. The motorsport DNA of the GT350R is accentuated through fully adjustable JRi racing suspension, chassis stiffening enhancements courtesy of Alcon Racing, and a remarkable carbon fiber aerodynamic package. Step inside, and you’ll discover a cabin adorned with lightweight carbon fiber accents, optional Sparco racing seats, a half roll cage for added safety, four-point harnesses, and an integrated lap timer designed specifically for the competitive track environment.
In homage to Shelby’s storied legacy, just 562 units of the new GT350 will be produced, precisely mirroring the original 1965 production figures. For those lucky enough to set their sights on the exclusive GT350R, they’ll find an even rarer offering, with production limited to just 36 examples—perfectly reflecting the historical significance of this extraordinary American performance icon.
