In 1965, the Ford Shelby GT350 was lunched. It was a version of a Mustang developed by the American racer Carroll Shelby. The first version got a 306-hp V8 engine and remained in production until the end of the 60s. Today, it's a valuable collector's unit.
It all started when Lee Iacocca, the person credited with turning the Mustang concept into a reality, came to Carroll Shelby and asked about transforming the Mustang into a racing car. This offer would change the picture of sports vehicles. Shelby breathed life into a hard-hitting powertrain.
Carroll Shelby died in 2012, but his legacy lives on in the Ford Shelby GT350. The company brought the car to a road course in Pontiac, Michigan to show off the changes and upgrades. Let's check out what the company has to offer for the 2019 model year. Get seduced by these 15 Ford Shelby GT350 photos.
15 New Set Of Tires
One of the main changes for the 2019 model year was the new set of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires that replaced the Pilot Super Sports. They offer a better grip, increase stability and side-to-side weight transfer. Smaller changes include adaptive tuned mass dampers and a thicker rear antiroll bar.
14 Classic Mustang Interior
The interior combines retro and modern features in one sweet cabin. Even though the Shelby badging is specific to the GT350, the rest of the interior is almost identical to that of the regular Mustang GT. You get standard Recaro front sport seats that are supportive and comfortable. The thin cross-section of the steering wheel adds differentiation.
13 New Rear Spoiler
Exterior upgrades include the new rear spoiler fitted with an optional Gurney Flap that gives the car a distinctive look and improves downforce. You can choose between Velocity Blue and Ford Performance Blue paint hues to distinct the 2019 model from its predecessors. These tweaks bring the car into parity with the R-spec model.
12 Impressive Infotainment System
The 2019 GT350 got an advanced Sync 3 infotainment system as standard. Aside from user-friendly features and an attractive interface, the system offers compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The touchscreen delivers great response times and smart customization options. A 12 speaker B&O Play audio system is also standard.
11 Revised Suspension
With Shelby's cars, upgrades usually happen underneath the skin. To match the new tires, the company revised the GT350's suspension. Upgrades include new MagneRide dampers and stiffer front springs. While the Brembo brakes remain untouched, engineers updated the antilock braking software. The 2019 model is more usable in wet weather while retaining the best grip.
10 Delivers 526 Horsepower
The 2019 GT350 features the 5.2L, naturally aspirated, flat-plane-crank V8 engine that delivers 526 hp and 429 lb.ft. of torque. This is the same unit fitted in the previous GT350 and it offers the same linear power delivery all the way up the 8,250-rpm redline. It's combined with the Tremec six-speed manual transmission.
9 Useful Driver-Assistance Features
Even though the 2019 Shelby GT350 has not been crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, it offers good driver-assistance features. Owners get a rear cross-traffic alert system and blind-spot monitoring. Besides, drivers enjoy blind-spot mirrors that provide good visibility. Purists will appreciate the absence of modern smart units.
8 Rewarding But Approachable
Ford states that "the updated Shelby GT350 as a machine that is rewarding for track veterans but approachable for novices as well". The car stays resistant to overheating despite being a near-race-spec compound. The differential, oil, and transmission coolers are standard. This car inspires confidence and helps drivers push harder.
7 Noticeable Aerodynamic Improvements
Ford says that "the coupe's restyled front fascia and new rear spoiler offer big aerodynamic improvements". They are the most noticeable when you get to a top speed of 180 mph. Well-spaced pedals allow for the proper shifting, and downshifting before every turn is a cinch. Instant throttle response makes driving even more pleasant.
6 Not A One-Trick Pony
Even though the car is meant for a race track, it's not a one-trick model. The GT350 feels fine performing daily tasks. The Normal Drive mode offers less ferocity and lighter steering. You can still feel impacts from big bumps, though. The only noticeable problem is the huge tires that are prone to tramlining.
5 More Fun On The Track
Ford managed to enhance the Shelby's on-track capabilities and elevate the fun factor without compromising its everyday driving performance. If you have been waiting for a sports car with track capability without the inherent compromises of the GT350R, the GT350 is the model for you. And it's cheaper than the R version
4 Two Optional Packages
For the maximum comfort, opt for the Technology package that delivers a voice-activated navigation system, premium sound system and heated side mirrors. Available as a stand-alone option, there are comfortable leather sport seats with driver-seat memory functions. The Handling package offers "adjustable strut top mounts that expand the range of adjustability for the front suspension".
3 Impressive Acceleration
Ford can be proud of its flexible engine. It feels soft under 3,500 rpm, but it never stumbles and delivers steady performance on a daily basis. The power and sound are astonishing. The braking pedal feels firm and requires effort. Still, the brakes are easy to modulate around the town.
2 Surprisingly Comfortable Cabin
The 2019 Shelby GT350 is surprisingly comfortable given its track-oriented origins. Sport and Normal modes are suitable for every situation. Even the Track mode isn't as punishing as in other sports cars. The cabin is quiet, especially for a car with huge tires and frameless windows. There are no rattles or buzzes.
1 Decent Cargo And Trunk Space
Even though no one will buy the Shelby based on its ability to transport lumber, the car retains signature Mustang practicalities. The big trunk makes the GT350 an everyday-driver proposition. Cargo space is decent for the class. The car features split and folding rear seatbacks for even more practicality and flexibility.