Red 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 with white racing stripes parked outdoors
From the moment you grip the keys of the Ford Mustang Shelby GT350, an irrepressible grin spreads across your face. It’s a car that evokes pure, unadulterated excitement, even before you ignite its potent engine. Clad in a vibrant red with iconic white racing stripes, our test model was a vivid embodiment of automotive dreams, instantly transporting you back to the wide-eyed enthusiasm of youth. Thoughts of open roads and exhilarating speed fill your mind, hinting at the thrilling experience that awaits behind the wheel of this remarkable machine.
What truly elevates the GT350 beyond mere aesthetics is its dynamic prowess. This isn’t just a car that looks the part; it’s engineered to deliver an authentic sports car experience. Equipped with massive Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires and sophisticated magnetorheological dampers, the GT350 dances with precision and agility, defying the typical muscle car stereotype. It’s a testament to Ford’s commitment to blending raw power with refined handling.
Close-up of the front grille and headlights of a 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350
Side view of a 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 showcasing its sporty profile
The Heart of the Beast: Voodoo V8 Engine
The soul-stirring Voodoo V8 engine is the centerpiece of the GT350 experience. Simply hearing it roar to life sends shivers down your spine. This naturally aspirated 5.2-liter marvel features a flat-plane crank and an astonishing 8,250 rpm redline. Producing a formidable 526 horsepower without relying on turbochargers, it’s a glorious throwback to the golden age of muscle cars. The engine’s sound is utterly captivating, urging you to explore its upper limits, a temptation that proves dangerously addictive even in everyday driving. Reaching the redline in second gear alone is enough to exceed highway speed limits, showcasing the sheer power on tap.
Detailed view of the 5.2L V8 engine of the 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350
Close-up of the Voodoo V8 engine badge in the 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350
Interior shot showing the 6-speed manual transmission shifter in the 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350
Mastering the Manual: Transmission and Launch
Further enhancing its performance credentials, the GT350 exclusively offers a manual transmission. The Tremec 6-speed manual gearbox provides a satisfyingly mechanical feel, slightly firm and notchy, yet complemented by a surprisingly forgiving clutch. This combination perfectly matches the engine’s character, demanding driver engagement and rewarding skillful execution.
Achieving optimal launch control for the best Gt350 0-60 time requires finesse. Insufficient revs lead to bogging, while excessive throttle results in wheelspin. However, master the technique, and you can expect to hit 60 mph in approximately 4 seconds. While not the absolute quickest in a straight sprint compared to some modern performance cars, the visceral thrill of running through first and second gear in the GT350 is unmatched, delivering a far more engaging experience than relying on turbocharger-induced acceleration.
Interior view of the 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 cabin, focusing on the seats and dashboard
Close-up of the tachometer in the 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350, highlighting the high RPM redline
Track-Inspired Handling and Road Manners
While launch control is available, the GT350’s true essence extends beyond stoplight sprints. Rumors suggest Ford benchmarked the Porsche GT3 during the GT350’s development, a claim that feels credible after experiencing the car’s capabilities. Even considering the significant price difference between the two, the GT350’s track-inspired DNA is undeniable.
In Sport mode, the finely tuned suspension keeps the car firmly planted, effectively masking its near 4000-pound weight. The handling limits are exceptionally high, best explored on a racetrack, an environment unfortunately missed during our test. However, even on public roads, the GT350’s agility and responsiveness shine through.
Angled shot of a 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 driving on a winding road
An afternoon spent navigating the winding backroads of the Santa Cruz Mountains proved to be a genuine revelation. While perhaps not ideally suited for such tight and twisty terrain, pushing the GT350 through corners while listening to the engine’s exhilarating wail was an unforgettable experience. It underlined the car’s ability to deliver thrills even when not unleashing its full potential.
Unbeatable Performance Value
With a base price starting well under $60,000, the 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 represents exceptional value in the high-performance car market. For the 2017 model year, previously optional features like magnetic shocks and track-ready hardware became standard, further sweetening the deal. While the Chevrolet Corvette remains a strong contender, its 6.2-liter small block engine lacks the distinctive character of the GT350’s glorious Voodoo V8.
Rear view of a 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 parked, highlighting its taillights and rear diffuser
For those seeking an even more track-focused machine, the GT350R variant adds aerodynamic enhancements and carbon fiber wheels with ultra-sticky Michelin Sport Cup 2 tires for an additional $7,000. This elevates the GT350R to true track-day weapon status, still at a significantly lower price point than cars like the Porsche GT3.
The 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 stands as a poignant reminder of a disappearing breed: affordable sports cars that deliver both exhilarating performance and genuine character. In an era increasingly dominated by hybrid powertrains and technology that can overshadow driver involvement, the GT350 champions the pure joy of driving. Ford Performance deserves immense credit for creating a car that reignites the passion for driving and celebrates the thrill of car ownership.
2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 Photo Gallery [smartslider3 slider=20]
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Watch again our “Run What You Brung Mile High 0-60 MPH Challenge” where we put a new Shelby GT350 to the test to see if it can run a sub-5-second quarter-mile at sea level.
