Nearly 60 years ago, Carroll Shelby made automotive history by introducing the iconic Shelby GT350, the first Ford Mustang to bear his name. This groundbreaking debut marked the beginning of a legendary series of Shelby-branded, high-performance pony cars. Fast forward to today, the Shelby GT350 is back, but this time it’s not a Ford factory production. Instead, Shelby American, a direct descendant of Carroll Shelby’s original shop, has brought this high-powered beast to life once again.
The new Shelby GT350 is a marvel of engineering. Beneath its vented hood lies a supercharged 5.0-liter V-8 engine, boosting its output to a staggering 810 horsepower—significantly higher than the 500 horsepower offered by the Mustang Dark Horse. Fans of the previous Shelby GT350, which was discontinued in 2020, will remember the naturally aspirated flat-plane-crank 5.2-liter V-8, famously known as the Voodoo engine, which delivered 526 horsepower. The updated GT350 from Shelby American takes performance to a whole new level.
This modern version of the GT350 isn’t just about raw power. Shelby American has re-imagined the car with a revised suspension, an aggressive new exhaust system, and an aerodynamic design that commands attention. Its bold front end features numerous intakes and grilles, and a prominent rear wing signals its track-ready intentions. For those seeking a less extreme option, the GT350 is also available with a naturally aspirated 480-horsepower engine. Both manual and automatic transmissions are offered, catering to a wide range of driving preferences.
For enthusiasts craving even more excitement, Shelby American has introduced the GT350R, a street-legal, track-focused variant that pushes performance to over 830 horsepower. This version comes exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission and boasts advanced features such as a carbon-fiber interior tub, optional racing seats with harnesses, and additional lightweight carbon-fiber elements. It also includes an integrated roll cage, adjustable track suspension, upgraded brakes, and enhanced aerodynamics. Shelby American has announced that many components from the GT350R will be utilized in a future Trans Am-spec race car set to debut in the 2026 racing season.
Read also: Adopt human right approach to cybersecurity-CSOs tell African leaders
Production numbers for the 2025 Shelby GT350 mirror the exclusivity of its 1965 predecessor, with only 562 units slated for production. The supercharged GT350 starts at $109,999, and manufacturing is expected to begin in the second quarter of the year. These vehicles will be sold through select Ford dealerships, with Ford’s power-train warranty still in effect and an additional three-year, 36,000-mile warranty from Shelby American.
Meanwhile, only 36 units of the GT350R will be produced by Michigan-based Turn Key Automotive/Motorsports, matching the original 1965 production figures. The GT350R will come in a sleek white finish with customizable stripes and graphics packages. Pricing for this track-focused variant has yet to be announced.
This re-imagined Shelby GT350 continues the legacy of high-performance engineering, offering enthusiasts a blend of cutting-edge technology and nostalgic charm. With limited production numbers and record-breaking performance capabilities, the new GT350 is poised to capture the hearts of automotive fans around the world.
