The Ford Mustang is the longest surviving of the affordable breed of classic American muscle cars. Sold always in coupe and most times in convertible and 2+2 fastback forms as well since its 1964 introduction, the Ford Mustang is the only one of the original pony cars to enjoy an uninterrupted production run. The current model, which debuted less than a year ago, has taken the world by storm.
The current Ford Mustang is quicker, better-looking, more refined, and more efficient than its predecessors. However, it has not lost any of the raw appeal that people come to associate Mustangs with for half a century. The current Ford Mustang line-up is set to expand with the introduction of the all-new Shelby GT350 Mustang. The original Shelby GT350, introduced in 1965, established Mustang's performance credentials. The all-new Shelby GT350 Mustang continues with the original car’s incredible performance credentials with a modern twist. The new GT350 builds on the late Carroll Shelby's (founder of Shelby Tuning Company) original idea of transforming a great every-day car into a dominant road racer.
 |
| Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang |
 |
| Standard Mustang |
Design
The standard Ford Mustang already features a striking design characterised by a long sculpted hood and short rear overhang. The standard 2+2 sports car also features a lower, wider stance and wider rear fenders. To make the Shelby GT350 even more aggressive the aluminium hood has been lowered and sloped, compared to the base Mustang, tightly wrapped around the engine for the smallest possible aerodynamic drag.
The aerodynamic capabilities of the Shelby GT350 Mustang are further boosted by the additional front and rear aero elements. The ‘shark-bite’ front grille has been shaped and lowered to offer the front splitter maximum pressure for improved downforce for the front wheels. This in turn improves the overall handling of the Ford Shelby GT350. The bonnet’s outlets acts like a heat extractor for the engine. At the rear the traditional three-dimensional tri-bar tail lamps have been redesigned to also feature sequential turn signals. An aggressive functional diffuser increases rear downforce while providing cool air to the differential cooler.
 |
| Side air outlets |
 |
| Original Shelby GT350 |
Performance
Underneath the sculptured bonnet is a high revving naturally aspirated V8 engine. The 5.2-litre engine delivers more than 372 kW (500 hp) and 541 Nm of torque. The figures makes the 5.2-litre heart the most powerful naturally aspirated Ford engine ever made. The 5.2-liter V8 gives drivers an enormous amount of performance and flexibility within each gear of the lightweight six-speed manual transmission.
A standard Ford-tuned Torsen limited-slip differential optimizes cornering grip and straight-line traction. Due to the significant speeds the car can develop, GT350 features an improved brake system which delivers a reassuring stopping power, fade resistance and brake pedal feel. The GT350 makes use of extra-stiff 19-inch aluminium-alloy wheels dressed with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres. The custom tyres are designed to deliver maximum grip on the road or at the track.
 |
| Thrilling to drive on the road and track |
 |
| A true Shelby tuned Mustang |
Interior
The interior has been optimized for driving, beginning with the specially designed Recaro sport seats. A flat-bottom steering wheel makes it easier for the driver to get in and out. Gauges are upgraded to reflect the enormous performance capability of the car. Chrome and bright finishes have been reduced to prevent sun glare that may distract the driver.
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, depending on driver preference, to achieve maximum performance. Drivers interested in comfort, convenience and entertainment upgrades may select the Tech Pack, which includes power, leather-trimmed seats; Shaker Audio; 8-inch LCD touch screen and dual zone electronic temperature control.
 |
| Cockpit |
 |
| Recaro seats |
Verdict
The Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang is in reality a blend of two cars into one. It is equally at home cursing on the open highway or being thrashed around a racetrack. The epic performance machine offers potential customers a blend of performance and handling never seen before in a Mustang.
The Ford Shelby GT350 also provides a hint of how the next generation GT500 will be like. The Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang goes on sale from next year.
 |
| Distinct rear design |
.jpg)
