Let's face it. The next generations of high-horsepower sports cars will likely be either partially or fully electrified. As a result, the amount of V8-powered, rear-wheel-drive, manual-transmission-equipped cars is vanishing rather quickly. As a result, some of the special editions leaving the production line today will likely be the sought-after classics of tomorrow, leaving even younger generations to adopt the phrase "they don't make them like they used to."

That's where this week's tester, the 2020 Ford Shelby GT350R, comes in with its high-revving naturally-aspirated 5.2-liter V8. At $78,990, this special edition variant of the current-gen Mustang employs some serious changes to create a truly unique experience.

RELATED: The Sickest Shelby-Modified Cars Ever Made

A Faithful Homage To The Original

If this particular Shelby GT350R looks familiar, that's because it gets its stripe and paint combo from a $1,965 option called the Heritage Package. Given its name, it pays direct homage to the original GT350 of the 1960s with a set of blue stripes and Wimbledon White paint. Accenting that paint scheme, you'll find plenty of black parts throughout the exterior, ranging from the rear wing, 19-inch wheels, and the front fascia. While the wing and wheels are finished in gloss black, they are made out of carbon fiber, a touch that is unique to the R.

While this is a brand-new car, it features the pre-facelift front-end design of the current-gen Mustang. While this might seem like a bit of a drawback, in person at least, the headlights and taillights remain plenty sharp. Additionally, the front end is drastically different from a standard Mustang, giving it a sinister appearance.

via Gabriel Vega | HotCars.com

However, the biggest upgrade over the standard Mustang and even the GT350 is the R's stance on the road. While those wheels are 19-inches, they feature enormous tires. 305/30R19 at the front and 315/30R19 at the rear. When you combined the wider wheels, the aerodynamic elements, and a lower stance, the GT350R carries an unmistakably special aesthetic.

RELATED: Flexing Modern Muscles: Mustang Shelby GT500 Vs Camaro ZL1 1LE Vs Challenger Hellcat Redeye

A 526-HP Engine That's Surprisingly Easy To Drive Quickly

via Gabriel Vega | HotCars.com

While the original GT350 of the 1960s made just over 300 hp, its modern GT350R descendent pumps out 526 hp. In a world of high-horsepower supercharged muscle cars, that might not sound like a lot. However, what makes the 350R special is how it puts that power down. Its naturally-aspirated 5.2-liter V8 revs to over 8,200 rpm, screaming as it reaches the redline. All of that power goes to the rear wheels exclusively via a six-speed manual transmission.

The most surprising part of the 350R is that it can always put its power down. At no point did this 526-hp muscle car step out of line, giving you outright speed. We have the Shelby's larger wheels and sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires to thank for this. Additionally, the 350R features magnetic suspension, which only helps with handling and grip. Overall, it is extremely difficult to get close to this car's limits on the road. No matter how hard you push it, it never seems to break a sweat.

via Gabriel Vega | HotCars.com

Since we tested this Shelby as a daily driver, there are a few things that stand out. The steering is incredibly communicative, giving you plenty of feedback even in low-speed scenarios. Additionally, while the suspension is undoubtedly stiff and track-oriented, it isn't uncomfortable. The six-speed manual transmission is ridiculously easy to operate, meaning you could easily use this track toy as your daily driver. More importantly, it doesn't take a racing driver to carry big speed in the 350R.

 Alcantara, Leather, and Tons of R's

via Gabriel Vega | HotCars.com

While you won't find many "R" badges on the Shelby GT350R's exterior, the interior is a completely different story. Stepping in, the first thing you'll notice is the black and red interior color scheme. Additionally, you'll quickly notice that there is a healthy dose of Alcantara and suede. While everything remains fairly similar to a standard Mustang, there are three major areas of improvement. The first is the steering wheel which features a blend of Alcantara and suede. Since this is the point, you'll be touching most often, adding that Alcantara not only improves grip but reminds you that you're driving something special.

via Gabriel Vega | HotCars.com

The second most important point within the cabin itself is the set of Recaro seats. As you'd expect from a track-toy, they are very well bolstered. However, they are by no means uncomfortable. Additionally, they're fairly large, accommodating even larger body types without issue at all. Lastly, the six-speed manual's shifter is pure magic. Aside from being easy to use, the feeling of the taller shifter and the shortened throws is the cherry on top of a great driving experience.

However, no car is faultless, and neither is the Shelby GT350R. In the pursuit of performance, you do get some drawbacks. The first is the in-cabin noise while on the road. While the V8 is great to hear under hard acceleration, it tends to drone in normal driving scenarios. Additionally, the stiff suspension can be a bit much on particularly poor sections of road. Lastly, you get plenty of noise coming from those Cup 2 tires that permeates through the cabin.

Is $78,990 Too Much For A Future Classic?

via Gabriel Vega | HotCars.com

While the Shelby GT350R is probably the best-driving Mustang you can currently buy, it does come at a cost. Our particular tester has a base price of $59,140. However, this car has over $18,000 in optional extras, bringing the grand total with fees up to $78,990. For that money, you're cross-shopping the Shelby with some serious German metal. However, the 350R provides an experience that is becoming harder to find these days.

At this point, making a high-horsepower car isn't rocket science. Slap on a supercharger, and you'll see north of 700 hp with ease. However, what makes the 350R and its 526-hp output great is that you can make full use of it, all the time. As a result, this remains a much nicer drive than cars with 200 extra hp.

via Gabriel Vega | HotCars.com

For 2021, both the 350 and the 350R are getting the corporate ax. Instead, we're getting the brand-new Mach 1. While it might inherit some of the Shelby's major components, it has some massive shoes to fill.

NEXT: 14 Sick Photos Of The 2020 Hennessey GT500 Venom 1000