LA Auto Show 2014: Ford

Don’t know about you, but I’ve been saying it’s about time for Ford to bring back the Shelby GT350 Mustang, and now they’ve heard our prayers. The original Shelby GT350 was launched back in 1965 and established Ford’s performance credentials. There have been many Shelby iterations by Ford since then but this is one of the most iconic performance Mustang nameplates of all time.

I present to you, ladies and gentleman, the all-new Shelby GT350 Mustang. Equipped with Ford’s most powerful naturally aspirated production engine ever, a high-revving naturally aspirated 5.2 L V8 flat-plane crankshaft engine. This is also the first-ever production V8 from Ford with a flat-plane crankshaft, an engine more commonly found in racing or exotic European sports cars. How this works is unlike in a traditional V8 where the connecting rods are attached to the crankshaft at 90-degree intervals, this engine evenly spaces all crank pins at 180-degree intervals, in addition to other unique engine layout specifics. The result is the most powerful naturally aspirated production Ford engine ever pushing out more than 500 HP with a torque peak above 400 lb-ft.

Ford worked endlessly perfecting the cars balance, engine, stopping power and interior comfort. At the front of the car, a new aluminum hood and fenders assist in further reducing the cars total weight while also improving aerodynamics. Where most cars wear scoops and vents for a cool look, the GT350 features fully functional vents and scoops further adding to the cars racing heritage. While this car works just fine as a daily driver, Ford made sure that those weekend track day owners would be able to take their GT350 out and have some fun.

There is so much more to the GT350 in addition to its unique heart, but for now, enjoy some photos and a walk around video from the auto show.