Shelby Ford Mustang GT350 – forbidden fruit for the UK

The Shelby Ford Mustang GT350 has been revealed with the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 from Ford, but the UK is highly unlikely to see it for sale.

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Yes, Ford is making the new Mustang in RHD for the UK, but it’s keeping its range-topping version – the newly revealed Shelby Ford Mustang GT350 – away from these shore. Which is probably pragmatic, but rather disappointing.

Still, if you don’t mind a left-hooker you can always buy one Stateside and ship it over; it’ll be a chunk more than you’d like when it gets here, but it will be rare, it will be quick and it will be fun.

That fun will come in no small part thanks to the naturally-aspirated V8 with flat plane crankshaft that churns out over 500bhp and peak torque of more than 400lb/ft.

That power gets sent to the back wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox via a Torsen limited slip diff, with bigger Bermbos for more stopping power, new 19″ alloys, MagneRide dampers and an optional Track Pack that brings engine and transmission coolers.

The GT350 also gets a reshaped aluminium bonnet, reworked bodywork front and back for better aerodynamics, wider front track and an interior treatment that gets Recaros, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, less chrome and tweaked gauges.

It’s an enticing package of raw fun but, unless Ford has a change of heart, it will be a rare sight on UK roads.