The GT350 story began in 1965 with the first Shelby Mustang, a car that transformed the image of the Mustang from a “secretary’s car” into a genuine sports car. By tweaking the suspension, improving the engine’s breathing with a Holley carburetor, high-rise intake manifold, and headers, Shelby created a car that won B-production national championships, even beating Corvettes.
The iconic Wimbledon White with Guardsman Blue stripes debuted in 1965, and though all original GT350s were white, over-the-top stripes were not standard, with many added later for racing. By 1966, the color palette expanded, but the Shelby philosophy remained: creating cars that combined performance and design.
After a hiatus, the GT350 returned in 2011 with updates like a custom front fascia and center exhaust. Between 2015 and 2020, Ford produced GT350s under license, but the name disappeared until now. For 2025, Shelby is bringing back the GT350, staying true to Carroll Shelby’s belief in honoring the past while focusing on the future.
Under the hood, the new GT350 features a Whipple supercharged 5.0L V8 producing an impressive 810 horsepower—nearly 300 more than its predecessor. The car also boasts a fully revamped suspension, upgraded brakes, and a unique aluminum hood designed for optimal cooling and aerodynamics. Customers can choose between a manual or automatic transmission
Key updates to the design include a more aggressive grille and front splitter, an exclusive aluminum hood, and a suspension overhaul to improve handling. The car sits about 1.5 inches lower than stock Mustangs, with Shelby-designed flow-formed aluminum wheels, Brembo brakes, and Michelin PS4S tires ensuring top-tier performance. Inside, leather-trimmed seats, Shelby badging, and personalized serial numbers add to the bespoke feel.
Shelby also plans to introduce the GT350R—a race-focused version inspired by the original R-models from 1965. Limited to just 36 units, these cars will feature lightweight construction, carbon fiber tubs, Alcon brakes, and track-spec components. Production is limited to just 36 units for the race model, while fewer than 500 GT350s will be produced overall, making them a rare and highly collectible piece of automotive history.
