Nimble Shelby GT350 Mustang returns
One of the most iconic performance Mustang nameplates of all time is returning - the all-new Shelby GT350 Mustang. The original Shelby GT350, introduced in 1965, established Mustang’s performance credentials. The all-new Shelby GT350 Mustang, featuring the most powerful naturally aspirated Ford-production engine ever, is a world-class performance vehicle, designed to tackle the planet’s most challenging roads - an all-day track car that’s also street legal.
The new GT350 builds on Carroll Shelby’s original idea – transforming a great everyday car into a dominant road racer – by taking advantage of a dramatically improved sixth-generation Mustang to create a truly special driving experience. Enthusiasts behind the wheel of a Shelby GT350 can expect to be treated to the most balanced, nimble and exhilarating production Mustang yet.
“When we started working on this car, we wanted to build the best possible model for the places we most love to drive – challenging back roads with a variety of corners and elevation changes – and the track on weekends,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice-president, global product development. “Every change we made to this car was driven by the functional requirements of a powerful, responsive power plant – with nimble, precise handling and massive stopping power.”
Early in development of the GT350, it was decided a high-revving, naturally aspirated V8 engine would best suit a track-focused Mustang. “The final product is essentially an all-new power plant unique to GT350 – and one that takes true advantage of the new chassis dynamics of the Mustang platform,” said Jamal Hameedi, chief engineer, Ford global performance vehicles.The new 5.2-litre engine is the first-ever production V8 from Ford with a flat-plane crankshaft, an architecture typically found only in racing applications or exotic European sports cars.
Unlike a traditional V8, where the connecting rods are attached to the crankshaft at 90-degree intervals, this design evenly spaces all crank pins at 180-degree intervals.
The result is the most powerful naturally aspirated production Ford engine ever, at more than 500 horsepower, with a torque peak above 400lb/ft. The track capability is enhanced by the output characteristics of the engine – the 5.2-liter V8 features an exceptionally broad torque curve.
“Make no mistake, this is an American interpretation of a flat-plane crankshaft V8, and the 5.2-litre produces a distinctive, throaty growl from its four exhaust tips,” said Hameedi. Due to the significant speeds the car can develop, GT350 features the most track-credible brake system ever offered on a Ford vehicle in terms of absolute stopping power, fade resistance and brake-pedal feel.
GT350 makes use of extra stiff 19-inch aluminium-alloy wheels – 10.5 inches wide in front, 11.0 inches in the rear – clad in state-of-the-art Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres with GT350-specific sidewall construction, tread face and compound. The custom tyres are designed to deliver maximum grip on the road or at the track. Ultra-quick responsiveness to changing conditions is provided by the first-ever Ford application of continuously controlled MagneRide dampers.
A flat-bottom steering wheel makes it easier for the driver to get in and out, and is more ergonomic on the racetrack. Gauges are upgraded to reflect the enormous performance capability of the car. Chrome and bright finishes have been reduced or eliminated to prevent sun glare that might distract the driver.
The advanced technology inherent to Mustang has been deployed for duty in the Shelby GT350. An all-new integrated driver control system allows selection of five unique modes that tailor ABS, stability control, traction control, steering effort, throttle mapping, MagneRide tuning and exhaust settings and depending on driver preference, to achieve maximum performance. Drivers are invited to test them all.
50 years of Ford Mustang
Shelby GT350 Mustang is the latest in an all-new line of Mustang fastback and convertible models, including the specially designed 50th Anniversary Edition Mustang. More than
9.2 million Mustangs have been sold since the car’s 1964 debut.
With more options to choose from, there is a Mustang to suit any lifestyle. The upgraded V8 in Mustang GT – now delivering 435 horsepower and 400lb/ft of torque – is joined by a 300-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 and an all-new 2.3-litre EcoBoost® engine that brings state-of-the-art technology to Mustang.
The new Mustang continues to be popular. In addition to being the most-liked vehicle on Facebook with 8 million likes, all-new models are turning on US dealer lots in an average of six days.
