New 2016 Shelby GT350 Exceeds Expectations

The reviews are in – and the general consensus is that the new Shelby GT350 is even better than most expected.

Given all the buildup for the car as one of the greatest Mustangs ever, that might come as somewhat of surprise. It’s certainly no easy mark to live up to. But based on all the buzz from those who’ve been behind the wheel of the new Shelby, it’s clear that the car even surpasses some of the highest expectations.

Below are a few thoughts on the new 526-HP Shelby, as shared by some of our colleagues who tested the car on and around Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in California recently.

Cars.com  – Joe Bruzek
“The GT350’s V-8 is without a doubt a highlight of the car when stretched to its mind-boggling 8,250 rpm redline. At and approaching redline, the symphony of spent combustion that blasts out of the pipes should be illegal; all it does is make you want to hammer down on the long pedal over and over again…”

Detroit Free Press – Mark Phelan
“The unique 5.2-liter flat-plane V8 engine snarled when drivers floored it and delivered gobs of torque for strong acceleration up the race course’s hills and along the twisting coastal road.”

Auto Week – Jake Lingeman
“It’s the best Mustang ever built. Full stop. The flat-plane crank V8 revs up like a Suzuki GSX-R motorcycle, and drops rpms just as fast. Pushing the red start button brings out a medium-sized rev that you might think is loud—until you actually get into the throttle, then it’s all thunder and lightning.”

Motor Authority – Marty Padgett

“It’s the grip that grips you. It’s stuck to the ground like no Mustang before, tires gently telegraphing when you’ve both had enough—and it takes a lot and a long while to get there.”

Herald Wheels – Richard Russell
“Because of the flat-plane crankshaft and a very open exhaust system, the new engine generates a hellacious sound, a unique and mellifluous bellow that becomes a belligerent wail as you near the redline. If that is not loud enough, you can flip a switch to bypass some baffles and make it even louder. Want to annoy the neighbours even more? The resonators in the GT350R have been eliminated!”

Chime in with your thoughts on the forum. >>

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