Shelby GT350 Returns
Supercharged V8 and Manual Transmission
Shelby American, a name deeply intertwined with Ford and its iconic Mustang, has unveiled the all-new Shelby GT350. Unlike the previous Mustang Shelby GT350, which was discontinued in 2020, this new two-door powerhouse has been developed independently of Ford.
The debut of the new Shelby GT350 comes 60 years after the original GT350 was introduced in 1965. With the original, Carroll Shelby proved that the Mustang—once dismissed by him as a “secretary’s car”—was capable of far greater feats.
Two Powertrain Options
Buyers can choose between two versions of the new GT350. The standard model is equipped with a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine producing 487 horsepower. For those craving more power, Shelby offers an optional supercharged upgrade. The Whipple supercharger package includes a Borla exhaust system and bumps the output to a staggering 821 horsepower.
Regardless of the engine, buyers also have a choice of transmissions: a 6-speed manual gearbox for a pure driving experience or a 10-speed automatic for convenience and performance.
Enhanced Performance Features
To ensure exceptional handling, the GT350 comes with a recalibrated suspension system featuring new springs and dampers. The car sits on lightweight 20-inch forged aluminum wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport tires.
Aggressive Styling Updates
The GT350 gets an updated aluminum hood with a prominent air intake, a redesigned grille, and a more aggressive front bumper. Aerodynamics are improved with a front splitter and a subtle “ducktail” rear spoiler, which can be upgraded to a larger carbon-fiber wing, as seen in the launch photos. The exterior is adorned with Shelby badging and logos, leaving no doubt about the car’s heritage.
Interior Refinements
Inside, the GT350 reflects Shelby’s signature styling with premium leather upholstery, a serialized plaque on the dashboard, custom floor mats, and unique door sill plates. Optional upgrades include carbon-fiber trim for a more performance-oriented look.
Limited Production Run
In a nod to history, Shelby will produce only 562 units of the new GT350, matching the production numbers of the original 1965 model. Of these, 36 will be track-focused GT350R variants. The GT350R features an advanced carbon-fiber aero kit, a supercharged V8 tuned to 842 horsepower, and a manual transmission as the only option. The suspension is built with race-ready components, and the car comes equipped with a high-performance braking system, Recaro bucket seats, and an integrated roll cage.
Pricing and Availability
The supercharged GT350 starts at $109,999 for the U.S. market. Shelby has also confirmed plans for international availability, though details on production numbers for these markets are yet to be announced.
With its blend of raw power, refined engineering, and limited availability, the new Shelby GT350 is destined to become a collector’s dream.
