Nitto Tire Honors Mustang Heritage at Thermal Club Raceway
Drop-top Life
We put those tires to the test with a 2018 Mustang GT Convertible equipped with the new 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. While it sounds a bit strange to use convertibles for a track day, we were more than happy to drive, period. Also, since the first run was essentially a tutorial, it really didn’t matter what kind of vehicle we used at that point—it was a steady drive with no passing allowed.
Gittin Jr., (in the middle, with the Monster hat, checking out the convertible) gave us pointers on how to best set up the 2018 Mustang for track work. And in case you were wondering, yes, that is indeed YouTuber ThatDudeinBlue on the far right.
First Run on Track
The exhaust note on this stock 2018 Mustang GT was throaty and aggressive, especially compared to previous ones. Even from within the cabin, it sounded great. Coming from someone who generally dislikes factory exhaust systems by all means, I was rather surprised.
Even with a light take off, you can feel the torque prominently. It has nice throttle response, and handles apexes pretty well. For what it’s worth, it’s also no slouch when accelerating out of hairpin turns, either.
Alas, when it comes to the 10-speed, the buck stops there. Yes, it is vastly superior to auto trannies of yore, and has even beaten the 2018 GT350R in a drag race. However when it comes to the track, it is still just too indecisive. A manual transmission is still my preferred way to experience the Mustang.
Stop…Classic Time
Riding in a brand spanking new, high-powered S550 convertible was awesome. But you know what else is awesome? Riding in a 960-hp 1967 Shelby Mustang GT500CR 900S from Classic Recreations based in Oklahoma City. Oh and yes, the bearded gentleman putting the helmet on is me.
It’s not technically an original GT500 but honestly, it doesn’t even matter. This one was totally optioned-out; we’re talking built 427 motor, procharger, super high-end suspension, hydro boost brakes, and so much more. The driver also owns the red Shelby GT350CR in front of us that you see briefly in the video below, too.
Second Run on Track
Low-end torque on this thing was absolutely phenomenal, and once we went open throttle and passed the camera-mounted SUV, it went from badass to just plain beastly. It had a little bit of trouble taking some of the turns, but on straightaways, you feel every last one of those 960 horses.
The blow-off you hear from the procharger sent shivers up my spine, all the way up to our return to the pit.
