Ford today unveiled the new Shelby GT350R Mustang, the most track-ready
road-going production Mustang ever built.
Arriving later this year, the 2016 Shelby GT350R has been designed and
engineered in the same spirit of the 1965 Shelby GT350 Competition model,
delivering never-before-seen track capability from a Mustang - thanks to
innovations in aerodynamics, chassis engineering and light-weighting.
"The Shelby GT350R Mustang is a no-compromise car in the pursuit of maximum
track capability," said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product
Development. "It is a thoroughbred street car making use of technology and
ingenuity to deliver performance few enthusiasts have ever experienced."
The car features the first-ever production V8 from Ford with a flat-plane
crankshaft - the most powerful naturally aspirated engine Ford has ever produced
- plus a specially tuned suspension. It is fitted with revised spring rates and
antiroll bars, lower ride height, unique track-tuned alignment settings, revised
bushings and jounce bumpers, cross-axis ball joints in the front suspension, and
revised calibration controlling the MagneRide dampers.
Aggressive Exterior Design on Shelby GT350R
The 2016 Ford Shelby GT350R Mustang has been optimized for aerodynamic efficiency.
Details including the hood vent for heat extraction and lift reduction,
underbody belly pans front and rear, an aggressive diffuser, vented wheel wells
and turbulence-reducing fender vents, wheel air curtains and side skirts all
remain on Shelby GT350R, but the car's downforce capability has been increased.
Revisions to the front splitter maximize downforce, while an all-new
high-efficiency carbon fiber rear wing has been added in anticipation of
competition. The wing moves the vehicle's center of pressure rearward while
improving downforce and lift balance - ideal for high-speed track work.
"Shelby GT350R's highly efficient aerodynamics, innovative light-weighting and
world-class chassis deliver a truly spectacular driving experience that makes
you feel like a professional racing driver," said Kerry Baldori, Ford
Performance chief functional engineer.
Aside from carbon fiber wheels, larger front splitter and rear wing, Shelby
GT350R features distinct design details. Exterior touches include red painted
brake calipers, red pin striping at the edges of the optional over-the-top
racing stripes and Shelby GT350R badging. Inside is high-contrast red stitching,
Shelby GT350R badging and the D-shaped steering wheel fitted with a red center
mark at the top.
