Explore the key similarities and differences between the Shelby GT350 and GT500, including engine power, handling capabilities, design features, and more. Which high-performance Mustang is right for you?
Engine Performance Comparison
When it comes to raw power and performance, the GT350 and GT500 are two of the most formidable Ford Mustang models on the market. But how do they stack up against each other? Let’s dive into the details of their engine performance and see which one comes out on top.
GT350 Engine Power and Torque
The GT350 is equipped with a 5.2-liter V8 engine, affectionately known as the “Voodoo” engine. This powerplant produces an impressive 529 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, thanks to its unique combination of a flat-plane crankshaft and a high-revving valvetrain. The result is a snarling beast of an engine that loves to be wound out, with a screaming 8,250 rpm redline that’s music to the ears of any driving enthusiast.
GT500 Engine Power and Torque
Not to be outdone, the GT500 boasts an even more impressive engine spec sheet. Its 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine cranks out a whopping 760 horsepower and 625 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful production engines on the planet. The addition of a twin-screw supercharger forces air into the engine’s cylinders with reckless abandon, leading to astonishing acceleration and a completely visceral driving experience.
0-60 MPH Acceleration Times
So, how do these impressive engine specs translate to real-world acceleration? The GT350 can sprint from 0-60 mph in just 3.9 seconds, while the GT500 annihilates that time with a 3.1-second 0-60 mph run. To put that in perspective, the GT500 can accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph in less time than it takes to read this sentence. That’s incredibly quick, and a testament to the engineering prowess of the Ford Performance team.
| Model | Engine Power | Torque | 0-60 MPH Acceleration Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| GT350 | 529 horsepower | 429 lb-ft | 3.9 seconds |
| GT500 | 760 horsepower | 625 lb-ft | 3.1 seconds |
Handling and Suspension
The art of balancing power and agility – handling and suspension are crucial components of any high-performance vehicle. In this section, we’ll delve into the world of the GT350 and GT500, exploring their respective chassis and suspension systems, and pitting them against each other in a thrilling Sport Mode handling comparison.
GT350 Chassis and Suspension
Imagine a world where precision meets finesse – that’s the realm of the GT350’s chassis and suspension. Built on a legacy of racing heritage, the GT350 boasts a specially tuned suspension system, designed to extract every last bit of performance from the vehicle. The result? A sublime driving experience that’s as comfortable on the road as it is on the track.
Thanks to its MagneRide® suspension system, the GT350 adapts to changing road conditions in real-time, constantly recalibrating to ensure maximum stability and grip. This cutting-edge technology is further complemented by a range of chassis upgrades, including a lightweight alloy front cradle, high-strength steel frame, and specialized wheel bearings.
Key Features:
* Specially tuned MagneRide suspension system
* Lightweight alloy front cradle
* High-strength steel frame
* Specialized wheel bearings
GT500 Chassis and Suspension
Now, picture a world where raw power meets razor-sharp reflexes – welcome to the domain of the GT500’s chassis and suspension. With its robust wheel wells and girthy 20-inch alloys, this behemoth of a car seems almost antagonistic to the very concept of refinement. Yet, beneath its aggressive exterior lies a finely tuned suspension system that not only manages its prodigious power but matches the GT350’s poise with uncanny finesse.
Boasting an even more extreme iteration of the MagneRide suspension system, the GT500 achieves stability and grip through sheer force of will. Chassis upgrades abound, including a unique electronic stability control system and advanced wheel bearings designed to cope with truly thunderous forces.
Key Features:
* High-performance MagneRide suspension system
* Unique electronic stability control system
* Advanced wheel bearings
* 20-inch forged alloy wheels
Sport Mode Handling Comparison
So, how do these two behemoths stack up in Sport Mode? Think of it as a beautifully choreographed dance between contrasting partners – the agile GT350 versus the muscular GT500. At low speeds, the GT350’s eagerness and finesse prevail, pirouetting through corners with almost unsettling alacrity.
However, as velocities rise and the GT500’s electronic nannies yield to its unbridled ferocity, the tide begins to shift. The GT500 starts to flex its colossal muscles, gripping the asphalt with unforeseen tenacity and forging through even the most demanding turns with uncanny poise.
Head-to-Head Comparison:
| Handling Parameters | GT350 | GT500 |
|---|---|---|
| Steering precision | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Cornering ability | 9/10 | 8.5/10 |
| Agility | 9/10 | 8.5/10 |
| Stability at high speeds | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
Exterior and Interior Design
The design of a car is more than just about aesthetics; it’s about creating an identity, a statement that sets the tone for the driving experience. When it comes to the GT350 and GT500, both models boast a design that’s not just visually stunning but also technologically advanced. But how do they differ in terms of body styles, colors, and interior features?
GT350 Body Styles and Colors
The GT350 is available in a range of body styles, including the coupe and convertible. Both styles are designed to cut through the air with ease, featuring a sloping hood and a roofline that’s curved just enough to create a sense of aggression without being too over-the-top. As for colors, the GT350 offers a palette that’s both bold and understated, with hues like Shadow Black and Silver Metallic sitting alongside brighter options like Orange Fury and Twister Orange.
GT350 vs GT500 Colors
One notable difference between the two models is the exclusive color options. The GT350 offers a more subtle palette, with colors that blend into the background without drawing too much attention to themselves. The GT500, on the other hand, is available in a range of bolder colors that are sure to turn heads, including a deep blue shade called Grabber Blue and a vibrant orange called Orange Blaze. Whether you prefer to blend in or stand out, both models offer a color option that suits your style.
GT500 Body Styles and Colors
Like the GT350, the GT500 is available in both coupe and convertible body styles. However, the GT500’s design takes things to a whole new level, with a more aggressive stance and a host of aerodynamic features that help to set it apart from its lesser-powered sibling. These features include a large splitter at the front, as well as a massive wing at the rear that helps to create downforce and improve handling. The result is a design that’s at once both beautiful and brutal, with clean lines and a sense of purpose that’s hard to ignore.
Interior Features and Upgrades
So what about the interior? Both the GT350 and GT500 boast a range of premium features and upgrades that are designed to create a driving experience that’s both comfortable and engaging. These features include heated and cooled seats, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a range of advanced safety features like blind spot monitoring and lane departure warning. But that’s where the similarities end. The GT500 takes things to a whole new level, with exclusive features like carbon fiber trim and a digital instrument cluster that’s customizable to suit your driving style. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or pushing the limits on the track, the GT500’s interior is designed to keep you connected and in control at all times.
Technology and Safety Features
In today’s fast-paced world of high-performance vehicles, cutting-edge technology and safety features play a crucial role in enhancing the overall driving experience. The GT350 and GT500 are no exception, offering a range of innovative features that cater to both performance enthusiasts and everyday drivers.
Infotainment Systems and Connectivity
Imagine being able to seamlessly connect your smartphone to your car’s infotainment system, accessing your favorite music, navigation, and phone apps with ease. Both the GT350 and GT500 come equipped with advanced infotainment systems, featuring high-resolution touchscreens, intuitive interfaces, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. But that’s not all – you’ll also enjoy premium audio systems, SiriusXM satellite radio, and voice-activated controls, making every drive a pleasure.
- SYNC 3 infotainment system with 8-inch touch screen display
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
- Premium audio system with 9 speakers (GT350) and 12 speakers (GT500)
- SiriusXM satellite radio with three-month complimentary subscription
- Voice-activated controls for seamless operation
Driver-Assist Features and Safety Options
Safety is top priority, and the GT350 and GT500 have got you covered with an array of advanced driver-assist features and safety options. From adaptive cruise control to pre-collision assist, these technologies work in harmony to reduce the risk of accidents and protect you and your passengers. But don’t worry – these features won’t cramp your driving style. On the contrary, they’ll enhance your overall experience, allowing you to focus on the road ahead.
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go traffic functionality
- Pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Blind spot information system with rear cross traffic alert
- Rear backup camera with washer and grid lines
- 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report
Performance Tracking and Data Logging
Ever wondered how your GT350 or GT500 would stack up on the track? Both models come with advanced performance tracking and data logging capabilities, allowing you to monitor and analyze your driving performance in real-time. Access customizable track mode, acceleration tracking, and lap timing, and even log your data for future reference. It’s like having a personal driving coach at your fingertips.
- Track mode with customizable settings and performance data logging
- Acceleration tracking and 0-60 mph acceleration time display
- Lap timing with automatic lap timer and data logging
- Electronic line lock and launch control for precision starts
- Track-only features, including drag strip mode and performance metrics
Price and Ownership Costs
The cost of owning a high-performance vehicle like the Ford Mustang GT350 or GT500 can be a significant factor in the buying decision. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or a first-time buyer, it’s essential to consider the initial purchase price, ongoing maintenance costs, and long-term ownership expenses.
Base Price and Trim Levels
The base price of a Ford Mustang GT350 starts at around $60,000, while the GT500 begins at approximately $72,000. However, these prices can vary depending on the trim level, options, and features chosen. The GT350 is available in two trims: the base model and the Track Package, which adds features like a rear spoiler, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, and a unique aerodynamics package. The GT500, on the other hand, comes in three trims: the base model, the Handling Package, and the carbon fiber Track Package. It’s worth noting that the prices mentioned above are subject to change and may not include additional costs like destination fees, taxes, and registration.
Ownership Costs and Maintenance
In addition to the initial purchase price, it’s crucial to consider the ongoing maintenance costs associated with owning a high-performance vehicle like the GT350 or GT500. Regular maintenance tasks like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pad replacements can add up over time. According to Ford’s recommended maintenance schedule, the GT350 and GT500 require oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on driving conditions. Other maintenance tasks, like tire rotations and brake pad replacements, should be performed every 6,000 to 12,000 miles. Based on these schedules, the estimated annual maintenance costs for the GT350 and GT500 are around $1,500 to $2,500.
| Vehicle | Annual Maintenance Cost |
|---|---|
| GT350 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| GT500 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
Resale Value and Depreciation
When it comes to resale value, the Ford Mustang GT350 and GT500 tend to hold their value relatively well, especially when compared to other high-performance vehicles in their class. According to Kelley Blue Book (KBB), the GT350 and GT500 have a five-year residual value of around 55% and 50%, respectively. This means that after five years of ownership, the vehicles will retain approximately 55% and 50% of their original purchase price. In terms of depreciation, the GT350 and GT500 tend to depreciate more rapidly in the first three years of ownership, with an average annual depreciation rate of around 10% to 15%. However, this rate slows down significantly after the initial three-year period.
| Vehicle | 5-Year Residual Value |
|---|---|
| GT350 | 55% |
| GT500 | 50% |
| Vehicle | Average Annual Depreciation Rate |
|---|---|
| GT350 | 10% – 15% |
| GT500 | 10% – 15% |
Racing and Track Performance
When it comes to pushing the limits of speed and performance, the GT350 and GT500 are two of the most impressive machines on the market. But how do they stack up against each other in terms of racing and track performance? Let’s dive in and explore the key differences.
GT350 Track-Tuning and Aerodynamics
The GT350 is a track-tuned beast, with a plethora of aerodynamic upgrades designed to maximize downforce and minimize drag. Its exterior features a sleek, aerodynamic body kit, complete with a large front splitter, side skirts, and a massive rear wing. This wing is not just for show; it provides a significant amount of downforce, helping the GT350 grip the track and corner with precision.
Under the hood, the GT350’s engine is tuned for track performance, with a lightweight crankshaft and connecting rods that allow for rapid acceleration and deceleration. Its six-speed manual transmission is designed to handle the rigors of track driving, with a clutch pack that can withstand the heat and stress of repeated high-speed starts.
GT500 Track-Tuning and Aerodynamics
The GT500, on the other hand, takes a more nuanced approach to track performance. Its aerodynamic upgrades are more subtle, with a front splitter and side skirts that provide additional downforce without sacrificing too much drag. The GT500’s rear wing is smaller than the GT350’s, but still provides a significant amount of downforce, particularly when equipped with the optional Track Package.
The GT500’s engine is tuned for both track and street performance, with a larger supercharger that provides more low-end torque and a more aggressive engine calibration. Its seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is lightning-quick, with shift times that rival those of dedicated racing transmissions.
Lap Times and Performance Data
So how do these two track-ready Mustangs stack up in terms of lap times and performance data? The answer is clear: both cars are incredibly fast, but the GT350 has a slight edge.
In testing, the GT350 has lapped the Nurburgring in just 7:32.4, a blistering time that puts it in the company of dedicated racing cars. The GT500, on the other hand, has lapped the same track in 7:35.4, still an incredibly quick time but just a tick behind the GT350.
When it comes to acceleration, the GT500 has the edge, with a 0-60 mph time of just 3.3 seconds compared to the GT350’s 3.5 seconds. But the GT350’s superior handling and braking capabilities make it the better choice for track duty.