Ford Shelby GT350 0-60 times

The Ford Shelby GT350 remains the same in its latest version. Updates on the Ford Mustang from which it’s derived from make it feel like an inferior car.

Luckily for most, the Shelby is still a performer. For the new Mustang GT, buyers get a 5-liter V8 engine that generates up to 420 pound-feet of torque and 460 horsepower. This is 20 torques and 25 horses up from the previous model. This extra power gets the car from 0 to 60 mph in under 4 seconds. The Mustang is more charming than ever. The power output is sufficient to destroy its 18- and 19-inch wheel options. There’s also a new active exhaust system – a quad-tipped exhaust setup that comes as standard – that allows you to adjust the exhaust volume on the go.

The quiet setting is ideal for relaxed cruising and daily commuting while the sonorous track mode makes the system audible enough for those far and wide. The new base model no longer features a V6. It comes with a 2.3-liter turbo-4 that has been upgraded for 2018. Updates were based on the Focus RS’ performance which features a similar engine. The starter engine offers 350-pound-feet of torque and 310 horsepower. The turbo-4 has always been the best option for those looking for style without the extra budget of the GT.

The 2.3-liter now churns an additional 30 pound-feet of torque, making the Base Mustang a fun muscle car to drive. For the 10-speed-automatic Mustang, things aren’t going as great. Ford has been working with General Motors to provide a better 10-speed transmission for the Mustang. They have already used it in the Expedition, Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, GM’s full-size SUVs, the F-150 and the Lincoln Navigator. It doesn’t seem to work very well in the Mustang. The 5.0-liter V8 revs quicker but feels like it might be a little too much for the 10-speed-automatic. The less powerful 2.3-liter turbo-4 works better with the 10-speed. Shifts are precise and predictable in all modes. For the exterior, Ford worked on updating the headlights, front and rear bumpers as well as the taillights. The front and rear also get a facelift. The 2018 Mustang comes with a lower nose that resembles the shark-nose style.

The middle remains largely unchanged. Following complaints from fans that the previous Mustang design made it look like a Fusion Coupe, Ford added new headlights that are shapely and come with attractive running lamps. Below the headlights are new marker lights joined to vertical vents. These make the Mustang more noticeable. The GT350 derives much of its interior and exterior looks from the standard Mustang.

The major differences are hidden within. At the front sits a 5.2-liter V8 that isn’t turbocharged. It produces about 526 horsepower and revs up to 8,200 rpm. The crankshaft is unique and produces a distinct sound when the engine is running. Powertrain upgrades include high-performance brakes and race-tuned adaptive suspensions. The GT350 delivers quite well as a daily commuter. It’s surprisingly quiet and comfortable. It’s also pretty entertaining and well-rounded. It’s a great idea for an ultimate Mustang.
 

William Mutugi