For the last 5 years, Ford has demonstrated its ability to build a seriously scary streetcar in the form of the Mustang GT350 and GT350R. Sadly, though, with the release of the Heritage Edition, Ford is ending production of the historic nameplate. Nevertheless, they've had an amazing run and as they send off this variant of the Mustang, they've made sure to do it in style with classic good looks. The Heritage Edition is intended to blend those classic good looks of the original GT350 with the modern muscle and performance of the current car.
Heritage Edition Is The Most Popular GT350 This Year
It's rare to see a car so perfectly blend historic elements from the past with modern abilities but this car really manages the balance well. With the blue on white stripe pattern, it's easy to distinguish this Mustang GT350 from all the lesser variants on the roads today. In fact, that pattern has led to the Heritage edition being the best-selling package available for the GT350 this year. It's a fitting end to a historic run with one of the best driving Mustangs to ever be sold.
The End Of GT350 Production Means More Focus On GT500
As production of the GT350 is ending, Ford has taken the opportunity to ramp up production of the GT500. Certainly, it wasn't going to be viable to sell both super-high performance versions of the car long term and Ford has wisely chosen the more potent 760 horsepower package to continue down the road. The GT350 and GT350R will always be remembered and revered as a true driver's car, though.
With more than 500 horsepower, they both brought more than enough power to the party and when combined with the exceptional Tremec 6-speed manual transmission, they were incredibly engaging and rewarding to master. The GT500 only offers a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, and, while it's incredibly fast and fun, it's a bit less satisfying for some of us. It's not all bad news though, as the discontinuation of the GT350 will also open the door for a new special edition to arrive.
Ford Mustang Mach-1 Limited Edition Picks Up Where GT350 Leaves Off
Late this year, Ford begins production on a limited edition Mach-1 packaged Mustang. The Mach-1 is expected to feature a blend of both GT350 and GT500 technology. Featuring a slightly more powerful version of the stock Mustang GT's Coyote motor, the Mach-1 will make 480 horsepower but feature the same 6-speed manual transmission as the GT350 along with many aero touches from the GT500 such as the front splitter and the Gurney flap in the back. Clearly, Ford is keeping the future of the Mustang bright.
Sources: Ford