Pricing information for Ford’s 2016 Shelby GT350 Mustang leaked Monday. The base GT350 will start at $47,870; the track-ready GT350R will start at $61,370–a full $10,000 less than Chevy’s similarly-equipped Camaro Z28.
According to a pricing guide obtained by Mustang6G.com, the GT350 will have only a few available option packages (of which one is the GT350R equipment group). Add-ons for the GT350 will include a Technology Package ($7,500) and Track Package ($6,500). GT350R buyers can add back in some comfort features via the Electronics Package ($3,000). Buyers of either model can add a black roof ($695), Triple Yellow tri-coat paint ($475) and a custom-fit car cover ($375). Destination for all models will be $825.
The GT350 ditches the massive, supercharged V8 that was found beneath the hood of the previous GT500 for a high-winding 5.2L naturally aspirated V8. Using Ford’s first-ever application of flat-plane crank technology — which allows better engine breathing — the 5.2L V8 in the new GT350 cranks out “more than” 520 horsepower and 400 lb-ft or torque, making it the most powerful naturally aspirated engine in Ford’s production history. A light-weight six-speed manual transmission will be the only gearbox offered in the GT350.
In order to improve the Mustang’s handling prowess, the GT350 has been fitted with a lowered suspension, Ford’s first ever adaptive damper system (called ManeRide), extra-stiff 19-inch wheels and specially designed Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires. The GT350 also boasts a wider front track than the standard Mustang.
The R takes the GT350 formula to the next level. A thoroughly revised suspension setup and upgraded brakes on all four corners help the driver make the most of the R’s grunt both on and off the track. Ford has added lightness by removing the air conditioning system, the stereo, the rear bench, the trunk floorboard, the exhaust resonators, the rear-view camera and the tire repair kit, making the GT350R 130 pounds lighter than the standard GT350 equipped with the Track Pack. However, buyers who can’t live without creature comforts can order the R with an optional Electronics Package that brings back equipment like dual-zone A/C, an eight-inch touch screen with navigation and a seven-speaker stereo system.
Visually, the R is instantly recognizable thanks to a large front splitter, a sizable rear spoiler, red brake calipers and a sprinkling of GT350R badges. Notably, the R comes standard with 19-inch wheels made out of carbon fiber instead of aluminum, a move that shaves 52 pounds of unsprung weight. The rims are wrapped by Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. The track-focused treatment continues inside with a pair of Recaro bucket seats and a D-shaped steering wheel. A metal plaque located on the right side of the dashboard reminds the passengers that they’re not riding in a run-of-the-mill pony car. Only 37 examples of the R will be built for 2015.
Photos by Brian Williams.
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