Just like the original Shelby GT350 Mustang, the all-new model has been developed with racing in mind so it’s nice to see it dressed as a competition car.
The new Shelby GT350R-C race car will have its competition debut this weekend at Watkins Glen in the 2015 IMSA Continental Tire SportsCar Challenge with Ford partner Multimatic Motorsports.
The competition version of the Shelby GT350R is powered by the same naturally aspirated 5.2-liter flat-plane crankshaft V8. Ford didn’t say if the engine features any upgrades compared to the production version, which produces 529hp and 429lb-ft (581Nm) of torque.
However, Ford said the race car features an adapted version of the fully independent suspension from the GT350R. Modifications include revised spring rates and antiroll bars, lower ride height, unique track-tuned alignment settings, revised bushings and cross-axis ball joints in the front.
“Like so many Mustangs before it, the Shelby GT350R is a car born to race. We’re taking it to the track as the GT350R-C and we’re ready to see what it can do against the best competition in the world,” said Ford Performance global director Dave Pericak.
The race team with be managed by Ford partner Multimatic Motorsports and will include drivers Billy Johnson, Scott Maxwell, Austin Cindric and Jade Buford for the GT350R-C debut at Watkins Glen.
“We like the endurance format, and the racing is always intense. Strategy plays a big role; the cars must be fast and reliable, and there are always at least 10 contenders running door-to-door for two and a half hours. It is the perfect home for the GT350R-C,” said team principal Larry Holt.
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