We’re still waiting Ford to release official output specs for the Shelby GT350 and GT350R, but for now the automaker wants to talk about the advanced suspension tuning on the two cars.
Both the Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT350R feature the continuously variable MagneRide dampers, a first for the Mustang. The dampers are filled with a hydraulic fluid impregnated with iron particles. When an electric current is passed through the fluid, Ford says a near-instantaneous adjustment of the suspension performance can be made. Changes can be made to each corner every 7 milliseconds for optimum handling performance.
The GT350 and GT350R’s degree of suspension performance has “never before seen in a production Mustang.” The rest of the suspension has been heavily revised to maximize cornering performance. Shelby Mustangs feature all-new aluminum front knuckle, hub and bearing assemblies that are stiffer and lighter than the standard parts.
Furthermore, rigid bushings are fitted to the control arms and subframes for improved steering feedback, while heavy-duty bearings are added for increased lateral stiffness. To get an improved body control, the front and rear antiroll bars have larger diameters.
Ford has also made modifications on the chassis, despite it being 28 percent stiffer on the all-new Mustang than on the previous model. Shelby GT350 and GT350R models feature added bracing to increase overall stiffness. Additionally, a new lightweight aluminum tower brace connects the shock towers and firewall, improving front end stiffness.
The braking system wasn’t neglected either, with the Shelby Mustang featuring the most powerful brakes ever fitted to a production Mustang. The brakes consist of two-piece cross-drilled iron rotors (394mm front, 380mm rear) with aluminum hats. These are the largest rotors Ford has ever put on a production Mustang. The rotors are clamped by six-piston fixed Brembo calipers.
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