Here's What Ford Has Done To Make The Shelby GT350 More Badass

If the standard Shelby GT350 isn’t quite hardcore enough for you, the answer is simple: go for the more focused GT350R. But there’s now a second option: wait for the 2019 version of the car.

Ford Performance has extensively fettled the GT350, via the help of “hundreds of hours of competitive track testing.” Aero enhancements have also been made possible by the development of the incoming GT500. As far as the aero side of things goes, the GT350 gets a new rear spoiler, which can be optioned with a Gurney flap for even more downforce.

A much bigger change concerns the tyres: like the R, the standard 350 now gets Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 semi-slicks with a bespoke tread pattern, as opposed to Super Sports. They’re still slightly narrower than the R’s monster boots though, measuring 295mm in width at the front and 305mm at the rear, compared to 305/315.

Finally, the suspension has been given a cheeky fiddle. To make the most of the aero and tyre improvements, Ford has added recalibrated springs and revised the standard-fit Magneride adaptive dampers.

When drivers aren’t making haste, they can enjoy a new electrically-adjustable seat option with suede inserts, a better infotainment system and an optional 12-speaker sound system. There are some new colours to choose from, too.

The car will go on sale early 2019.