2016 Shelby GT350R – The SVT Cobra R We’ve Been Waiting 15 Years For

If you remember back about 15 years ago, there was this incredible car that Ford released in limited numbers to the public. It was a street-legal racecar known as the SVT Cobra R, and we never saw it again. Well, it looks like the guys at Ford’s SVT division remembered that car today as they have just unveiled the modern equivalent to the masses at the North American International Auto Show: The Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R.

It’s amazing that a car like this can be released to the general driving public. The Shelby GT350R is the driver’s car, much like the SVT Cobra R was when it was released. There is no radio, no A/C, no rear seats — pretty much anything that didn’t make the car faster and could be removed has. There will be an “Electronics Package” for those who want a radio, though. However, the hardcore version will be 130 pounds lighter than the GT350 Track Pack.

There is a Tremec six-speed manual bolted to the back of the 5.2-liter V8, and while smaller in displacement than the 5.4-liter V8 that was in the Cobra R, it retains the DOHC and gains about 215 horsepower for a total of 500 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. It also uses a flat-plane crankshaft for the first time in a Ford engine. So, instead of a 90-degree interval between cylinders, there is 180 degrees for higher revs and a very unique sound. It will also be louder thanks to the removal of a set of resonators in the exhaust for weight. Channeling that power and torque to the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, which are unique to the GT350R, is a Torsen differential.

With the GT350R’s full carbon-fiber wheels, Ford is the first manufacturer to offer such a setup on a non-low-volume production car. The Koenigsegg Agera R is the only other vehicle to offer all-carbon wheels at this time for a production road car that aren’t an option, works wheel, or aftermarket … at least that I am aware of that is again production-car-standard equipment. The wheels will measure 19×11 front and 19×11.5 rear.

The suspension movements are controlled by MagneRide dampers that have been recalibrated for the GT350R. There are also aerodynamic touches all over the this Mustang like the hood vent that removes heat from the engine bay and reduces lift, underbody belly pans front and rear, a diffuser to work with the GT350R rear wing, vented wheel wells, and a revision to the front splitter. “Shelby GT350R’s highly efficient aerodynamics, innovative lightweighting 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.

“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.” As you probably know, the GT350R wasn’t even the highlight of the show … that title goes to the 2016 Ford GT.

Chime in with your thoughts on the forum. >>

Looking for a good deal on a new Mustang? Get insider information here.