While on paper, the Porsche 911 GT3 and Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 are worlds apart, the two cars do share a common philosophy as being back-to-basics driver’s cars.

Hailing from Germany, the latest GT3 is available in 991-generation guise and utilizes a brand new flat-six engine that redlines at a screaming 9,000 rpm. While all previous 911 GT3s have been available with manual transmissions, the latest model is offered exclusively with a seven-speed PDK, inevitably improving its performance but slightly detracting from the driver involvement.

In contrast, the Mustang GT350 can only be ordered with a manual gearbox and as with the very best American cars, features a bellowing V8 engine. Unlike many other V8 engines however, the GT350 has a flat plane crank which allows it to rev to a crazy 8,250 rpm while emitting a bark somewhere between a traditional muscle car and a screaming Ferrari 458 Italia.

As evidenced by this short clip, both are right at home on twisty mountain roads and offer thrilling driving experiences.

If you could only have one, which would it be?

VIDEO