Marketed as the most track-focused Mustang ever and bearing the Shelby badge, the GT350R certainly raises expectations.
Ford has given the R its most powerful naturally aspirated V8 ever, with 526 HP, mated to a slick six-speed manual transmission, and has shed around 130 pounds compared to the GT350 by removing most amenities, like the boot carpeting and even the rear seats.
It’s also revised the suspension comprehensively, with different spring rates and antiroll bars, a lower height and recalibrated the electronically controlled dampers. There’s also a new aero kit with a front splitter, side sills and rear wing that’s meant to work its best when pushed hard at the track.
On paper, then, the GT350R makes for a compelling proposition for those on the lookout for a no-frills, driver-focused package, especially at $60k. Taking it out for a quick spin reinforces that opinion, as you can see in the video that follows.