The 2018 Shelby GT350R is a standout in Ford’s lineup, mixing classic Mustang roots with modern advancements. Carrying the spirit of Carroll Shelby’s original vision, this car blends powerful American engineering with track-ready features. Special touches like carbon fiber wheels, a hand-built 5.2-liter V8, and unique aerodynamic upgrades set it apart from ordinary models.
Many car fans appreciate the GT350R not just for its looks or sound, but for how it performs on the road and track. With a reputation for comfort and driveability, it stands as a favorite among those who want both racing performance and everyday usability.
Key Takeaways
- The GT350R showcases advanced engineering and legacy-inspired design.
- It delivers strong performance with special features for the track.
- Fans appreciate its balance of comfort, power, and unique style.
Lasting Impact of the Shelby GT350R
Shelby’s Mission and Influence
Carroll Shelby set out to make a Mustang that could beat Corvettes, and the GT350R carries that spirit today. The car features a 5.2-liter “Voodoo” V8 engine with a flat-plane crank, a rare design in American cars and often compared to Ferrari setups. Shelby’s goal of making a fast, track-ready muscle car shaped every detail. The raw sound and handling continue to honor his vision.
Table: Key Features Influenced by Shelby’s Vision
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 5.2 L Flat-Plane Crank V8 |
| RPM Limit | 8,800 |
| Power (Stock) | 526 hp |
| Special Wheels | Carbon Fiber (lighter and stronger) |
| Racing Upgrades | Aero package, splitter, upgraded wing |
Modern-Day Resurgence and Importance
The GT350R name returned in 2015, ending a long pause since the 1960s originals. Ford wanted to pay respect to Shelby’s legacy and show that modern American muscle can compete with high-end European sports cars. The 350R stood out as the first mass-production car with carbon fiber wheels, a feature seen more often on exotic cars.
Highlights:
- Tested on legendary tracks like the Nürburgring.
- Targeted rivals included the Camaro Z28 and Porsche 911 GT3.
- Blends race-ready features with comfort for daily driving.
Thanks to these updates, the GT350R is still known for its balance of tradition and new technology. It proves a muscle car can be fast on the track and road, keeping the Shelby name alive for a new generation.
Build and Driving Capabilities
5.2L Flat-Plane V8 Engine
The heart of the GT350R is a hand-built 5.2-liter V8 engine called the Voodoo. It uses a flat-plane crank like engines found in some European sports cars. This type of crank helps the engine rev up to 8,800 RPM and creates a unique, high-pitched exhaust sound. The V8’s design is rare among American cars.
Horsepower Levels and Upgrades
From the factory, this V8 produces 526 horsepower. With a few small upgrades, the car featured here makes a bit over 575 horsepower, as measured by a dyno. These extra modifications cost around $5,000 to $6,000 and include a half cage and racing seat belts. Most of the vehicle remains close to its original design.
| Spec | Stock | Modified |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 526 hp | 575+ hp |
| Upgrades | None | Half cage, belts |
Gearbox and Handling
The GT350R comes with a six-speed manual transmission that is easy to use. The clutch is described as user-friendly, making the car comfortable for regular drives. On the road or at the track, the car feels balanced and responsive. Rev-matching is smooth, allowing for fun and confident driving.
- Easy clutch for daily use
- Six-speed manual gearbox
- Comfortable for both street and track
Track-Focused Features
For high performance on the track, the GT350R includes carbon fiber wheels to cut weight. Compared to aluminum wheels, these are lighter. The model also has a unique rear wing, a different front aero package, and a deeper front splitter for better aerodynamics. Testing at famous tracks shows the car was designed to handle sharp corners as well as straightaways. Even with these features, the car’s interior stays comfortable for both drivers and passengers.
Standout Elements and Advancements
Lightweight Carbon Wheels
The GT350R is equipped with carbon fiber wheels. These wheels weigh less than the standard aluminum ones. This reduces the overall weight and helps with both speed and handling. Carbon fiber wheels are usually seen on much more expensive hypercars.
| Wheel Type | Material | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| GT350 Base | Aluminum | Heavier |
| GT350R (This Car) | Carbon Fiber | Lighter |
These wheels make the car quicker and also improve steering response.
Body Design and Airflow Changes
The GT350R comes with several changes to its body and aerodynamics compared to the normal GT350. There is a different rear wing and a unique front splitter. Both help the car stay more stable at high speeds and give better downforce at the track.
Engineers tested this car on famous tracks like the Nürburgring to make sure it handles well in corners, not just straight roads.
- Larger rear wing for added downforce
- Deeper front splitter for better airflow
- Improved grip and balance in hard turns
Cabin Improvements and Track-Ready Safety
Inside, the car features comfortable sport seats that are good for both track days and long drives. There is also a half cage and special belts added for more safety when driving fast.
Most of the interior is kept close to the stock look, making it still practical for daily roads. Extra upgrades can be added, like the half cage and harnesses, which improve safety without making the car uncomfortable.
- Supportive racing seats
- Safety belts and half cage for track use
- Room for gear in the trunk for convenience
Behind the Wheel: Real-World Impressions
Everyday Ease and Road Use
The GT350R stands out as a road-going machine that feels just right for everyday trips. The clutch is light and simple, making stop-and-go traffic easy to manage. The seats are comfortable, offering enough support for both short rides and longer journeys. Even with its racing spirit, this car lets you load up your gear for a day at the track and drive home comfortably afterwards. Even family members who usually skip rides in high-end exotics enjoy the smoothness of this model.
Features table:
| Feature | Experience |
|---|---|
| Seating comfort | Supportive, soft |
| Clutch operation | Light, easy |
| Practicality | Trunk space usable |
Track Performance Highlights
Once on the circuit, the GT350R really shows what it can do. The 5.2L V8 engine with its flat-plane crank pulls hard up to 8,800 RPM. Thanks to carbon fiber wheels and a focused aerodynamic package, the car handles tight corners with confidence. It has just over 575 horsepower with some small tweaks, and holds its own against cars costing much more. Reliability allows drivers to go all out during laps and still drive home afterwards.
Performance observations:
- Powerful acceleration all the way to redline
- Confident steering and braking
- Well-balanced through corners
Engine Sound and Driving Feel
The sound from the GT350R is a highlight on its own. The V8 produces a raw, raspy tone that stands out, especially when the revs climb. The exhaust note is deep and aggressive, thanks to special headers and the unique flat-plane crank design.
Key sensations:
- Loud, engaging engine noise
- Strong vibration and feedback in the cabin
- The car’s unique sound draws attention wherever it goes
Summary Table
| Sensation | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine Sound | Raspy, powerful |
| Cabin Feedback | Strong, engaging |
| Driving Excitement | High at any speed |
Motus Channel Standouts
Pete’s Knowledge and Tips
Pete stands out as a source of expert guidance, breaking down technical details in ways anyone can understand. He walks viewers through the specifics of the Shelby GT350R, from its carbon fiber wheels to its unique 5.2L Voodoo engine with a flat-plane crank. Pete compares the car to others in his collection and explains how it performs on track days, always offering practical advice for drivers.
Quick Facts Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.2L Voodoo V8 |
| Max RPM | Up to 8,800 |
| Horsepower (Tuned) | 575+ |
| Stock Horsepower | 526 |
| Upgrades | Carbon fiber wheels, wing, cage |
| Comfort | Suitable for daily and track |
Latest Visit to Bokeh Motors
The latest stop at Bokeh Motors features the team taking a closer look at the supercharged M3 and the GT350R Mustang. The space is filled with energy, as they move between vehicles, check out modifications, and discuss technical upgrades. Pete shares his thoughts on the differences between the R-model and standard versions, highlighting weight savings and improved aerodynamics.
Key Upgrades Mentioned
- Carbon fiber wheels for lighter weight
- Unique rear wing and aerodynamic parts
- Deeper front splitter
- Half cage and belt additions
Viewer Connections and Interaction
Motus values its community, inviting viewers to share feedback, leave comments, and suggest future video topics. Updates on channel merchandise are teased, with a focus on making the audience feel included in the journey. The team encourages everyone to subscribe, join the conversation, and help shape future content.
Ways the Community Gets Involved
- Submit ideas for new car features or topics
- Comment personal thoughts and experiences
- Participate through merchandise and brand support
Call to Action:
Subscribe, like, comment, and help build the Motus Channel together.
Final Thoughts
Key Features:
- 5.2L flat-plane crank V8 engine
- Carbon fiber wheels, lighter than aluminum
- Aerodynamic upgrades: unique rear wing and front splitter
- Produces over 575 horsepower with some modifications
- Hand-built by Ford Performance team
Notable Highlights:
- Shares DNA with Ferrari engines due to its unique crank design
- First mass production car with carbon fiber wheels
- Tested at famous tracks, aiming to rival European sports cars like the Porsche 911 GT3
- Comfortable enough for daily use, yet fully capable on the race track
This model blends track-ready capability with everyday comfort. The GT350R stands out not only for its performance upgrades, but also for being friendly to drive and own. With a powerful engine, special design features, and a nod to classic muscle heritage, it remains a standout choice for drivers seeking both excitement and practicality.
