Ford Shelby GT350, GT350R Mustang to Have Limited Production for 2015

The 2015 model year Shelby GT350 and GT350R models are a nod to the the original 1965 Shelby GT350 competition model. While the actual number of competition GT350s is a source of hot debate among fans, Carroll Shelby maintained there were 35 actual cars produced with two additional prototype cars, for a total of 37 1965 GT350 competition models.

Those who are able to get their hands on a 2015 Shelby GT350 and GT350R will have one of the coolest and highest-performance Mustangs ever made. Ford has not released any official power figures for the GT350’s 5.2-liter flat-plane crank V-8, but has confirmed it will be comfortably over 500 hp. A limited-slip Torsen differential comes as standard, mated to a lightweight six-speed manual transmission. Compared to a normal 2015 Ford Mustang GT, the GT350 comes with beefier suspension, bigger brakes, lowered hood, wider front track, and a lightweight exhaust.

The optional Track pack for the 2015 Shelby GT350 adds an oil and transmission cooler to keep the GT350 at peak performance while on the track, along with a stiff front strut-tower brace.

The 2015 Shelby GT350R is an entirely different animal. While the GT350R retains the same 5.2-liter V-8, everything on the R has been stripped out and hunkered down in the name of speed. The GT350R gains a wicked aero package, with a large, functional rear wing and front splitter. New carbon fiber wheels save 13 pounds per wheel, along with bespoke Michelin 305/20ZR19 front and 315/30ZR19 rear tires with a special rubber compound developed specifically for the Shelby GT350R.

Ford has not released information regarding how to reserve one of the 137 Mustangs, but if history has taught us anything, expect dealer allotments based on past Shelby and specialty Mustang sales.

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