• Skip to content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Auto Trends Magazine

Car reviews, industry news, & advice.

SPORTS CAR

Super Steed: Ford Performance Enhanced Mustang GT

December 29, 2017 by admin 1 Comment

Select performance parts take the Mustang GT to greater heights.

Updated December 30, 2017, to clarify the performance pack’s short-throw shifter.

2017 Ford Mustang GT
The 2015-2017 Mustang GT has since been replaced by an updated 2018 model with a fresh look at available 10-speed automatic transmission.

I’ve driven nearly every Ford Performance enhanced product, with the exotic Ford GT supercar the lone exception. The overarching task of Ford’s performance division is to take ordinary or already sporty models and convert them into something extraordinary.

Models like the Ford F-150 Raptor, Focus RS, Shelby GT 350/350R, Fiesta ST and Focus ST. Yet, the division’s influence extends far beyond these models to include Ford-authorized aftermarket parts, wheels, performance packs, superchargers and crate engines for tuners and weekend warriors.

In other words, Ford Performance has something for everyone.

Mustang GT Performance Pack

One such beneficiary of Ford Performance’s prowess is the Mustang GT. Shoppers may opt for the GT Performance Pack ($2,995), available with manual gearbox models only.

The package extensively modifies the GT, making such changes as adding 19-inch Ebony Black-Painted Aluminum Wheels set within summer-only tires, Brembo six-piston brake calipers with larger rotors, heavy-duty front springs, a k-brace (for stabilizing the front suspension while cornering), strut-tower brace, unique chassis tuning, a larger rear sway bar, spoiler delete and a TORSEN differential with a 3.73 axle ratio. Inside, you’ll find a gauge pack, adding oil pressure and vacuum dials, as well as an aluminum-trimmed instrument panel.

You’ll also find a nifty “tool” known as a short throw “no lift shift” transmission shifter. When operating under full throttle, this feature allows you to keep the gas pedal on the floor while shifting gears. At launch, rev the engine, drop the clutch, and hammer the throttle.

2017 Ford Mustang GT
Yes, those are summer tires on this Mustang GT. You’ll want to invest in a set of all-season or winter tires when temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

2017 Ford Mustang GT Premium

A 2017 Ford Mustang GT Premium equipped with the GT Performance Pack, Shaker Audio System Package ($1,795), Recaro Leather Trim Sport front seats ($1,595) and a reverse sensing system ($295) was my end-of-calendar-year visitor, carrying a retail price of ($44,775). Although the refreshed 2018 model was on the market for a few months, I jumped at the chance to drive the 2017 Mustang GT.

And who wouldn’t? Securing performance versions of Ford products take time — even as the calendar year comes to an end, interest in such models remains.

Incidentally, if you do happen to consider the 2018 model, this same performance package retails for $3,995. Further, it is now available with models equipped with the Mustang’s new 10-speed automatic transmission and adds a pair of items to justify its $1,000 premium: a larger radiator and a performance rear wing.

Performance-Enhanced Powertrain

Ford Performance tweaks to the Mustang GT also yield power and handling benefits, especially when additional performance parts are part of the equation, including a cat-back exhaust system ($1,549), cold air intake and calibration power pack ($949) and a track handling package ($1,520), to name a few.

When properly equipped, overall power increases from an already robust 435 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque to 451 horsepower and 424 pound-feet of torque. Importantly, you control that excitement by means of a smooth shifting six-speed manual gearbox.

2017 Ford Mustang GT
The available Recaro seats provide ample lateral and hip support. They were also more comfortable than the Recaros in the Shelby GT350. As for rear space, it is cramped.
2017 Ford Mustang GT
Seating is comfortable for two. Four can fit in a pinch.

On the Road

I received sufficient warning about the “slippery” rear tires when handed the keys to the GT, but it took a few turns around town and on the open road to gauge exactly what I was dealing with.

Tires, of course, play a big role in handling. Up front, the Mustang GT has 255/40R19 tires; at the rear, you’ll find 275/40R tires. They’re summer tires too, and that means when temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit they begin to lose traction.

Ideally, summer tires are best for when ambient temperatures are warm or hot. That’s the ideal, although not always what’s practiced. Indeed, the tread rubber compound includes flexible plastic. When temperatures drop, the plastic becomes inflexible, increasing the likelihood of the compound breaking.

Fortunately, December temperatures in central North Carolina were still relatively warm with daytime highs in the 50s and 60s common. To avoid drama, I chose the warm days for the bulk of my driving. On the remaining days, I didn’t venture out until the afternoon when cold wasn’t a consideration.

2017 Ford Mustang GT
The driver-focused cockpit is simple, yet sporty and even elegant.
2017 Ford Mustang GT
The GT Performance Package adds a pair of gauges for oil pressure and vacuum.

Ka-boom! That’s precisely what I (and my neighbors) heard whenever I started the Mustang GT. However, unlike the Shelby GT 350, there isn’t a switch available to quiet that note. Not that you want to tone things down, but depending on where you park your ride, your neighbors may complain.

This hot steed shifts cleanly with smooth clutch uptake. But the lack of grip from the rear tires means shifting into lower gears may result in tire spin or slippage, even with traction control engaged. More than once I found myself holding off shifting between first and second gear to avoid grip loss from the Pirelli P Zero tires.

Everything else about the Mustang GT is solid, from the comfortable Recaro seats to the weighty steering. As much as possible, I kept the steed in sport mode, enjoying the solid feel of the steering wheel and the precision handling of every turn. For enthusiasts, a 4.3-second 0-to-60 mph time should be within range. Even better times are in store for the 2018s.

You’ll realize this Mustang’s sweet spot at high speeds, particularly as the coupe knuckles down when pressing hard on the pedal. Find your place in fourth or fifth gear and the V8 percolates, sending beautiful booms through the exhaust outlets as you ease up on the pedal. Sixth gear may seem like an afterthought…something to consider when maintaining an even highway speed with cruise control on.

Another attribute of the Mustang is its big brakes. Slam them and you’ll come to a quick stop with zero brake fade noted. The cooler temperatures may have helped somewhat in mitigating heat build up for the week I had it, otherwise, I was very impressed by this steed’s poise from start to finish.

2017 Ford Mustang GT
Ford Performance is “all over” this GT’s engine bay. This model is enhanced by several parts including strut tower brace and a cold air intake.

Parting Thoughts

The Mustang GT gives enthusiasts most of what they need in a powerful muscle car for under $40,000. That said, you’ll probably want to add at least the Performance Package and the Cold Air Intake and Calibration Package to achieve maximum power and control.

Most models will cost somewhere around $45,000, with $50,000 the likely range if you insist on the enhanced audio system and a few other Ford Performance goodies.

All in all, the 2017 Mustang GT hits all the high notes in the segment. Certainly, if performance is your be all and end all, opting for the 2018 model provides a fresh look with improved performance — a winning combo you won’t want to easily dismiss.

2017 Ford Mustang GT
Bright sunlight lightens the patina of the “Grabber Blue” model.
2017 Ford Mustang GT
The Mustang’s aggressive front fascia is amplified by the triple LED lights.
2017 Ford Mustang GT
A special Ford Performance knob graces the gearbox shifter. This short-throw shifter makes it easy to dump the clutch at full throttle.

2017 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback

  • Sticker price from $37,195
  • Price as tested: $44,775
  • Seats four
  • Engine: 5.0-liter V8 gas
  • 2017 Ford Mustang GT.
    Twin hood scoops dress the 2017 Ford Mustang GT.
  • 435 hp @ 6,500 RPM
  • 400 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4,250 RPM
  • 6-speed manual or automatic transmission
  • Wheelbase: 107.1 inches
  • Length: 188.3 inches
  • Width: 75.4 inches
  • Height: 54.3 inches
  • Passenger volume: 82.8 cubic feet
  • Storage volume: 13.5 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: NR
  • EPA: 14/23 mpg city/highway
  • Premium gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 16 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 3,733 pounds
  • IIHS safety rating: Incomplete
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
  • Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles
  • Vehicle assembly: Flat Rock, Michigan

  • 2017 Ford Mustang GT
    The familiar sequential tail lamps dominate the Mustang’s rear fascia.

    See Also — Charmed, Then Snakebitten by a Shelby GT350

    Photos copyright Auto Trends  Magazine. All rights reserved.

    Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2017 cars, FORD MUSTANG, FORD PERFORMANCE, MODIFICATIONS, rear-wheel drive, Recaro, six-speed manual, sport exhaust, SPORTS CAR, V8 engine

    Charmed, Then Snakebitten by a Shelby GT350

    October 27, 2017 by admin 2 Comments

    Flat-plane crank V8 engine and all that.

    2017 Shelby GT350
    A Ford Mustang by another name: Shelby GT350.

    When is a Ford Mustang not a Mustang? Answer: when it is a Shelby GT350 (or GT350R).

    Well, the Shelby is a Mustang, a special version bearing the name of the late Carroll Shelby, a racing driver and automotive designer of renown. Shelby’s name adorned some of the earliest Mustangs, returning in 2006 to do likewise for modern variants. The current iteration indicates neither Ford nor Shelby on the exterior. Instead, you’ll find the recognizable cobra insignia.

    Yes, the Shelby line sits on the top of the Mustang pecking order, just above the GT. If you follow the Shelby line closely, then you’re aware that platform updates follow Mustang architecture revisions, but engineering changes may happen at any time. This means when the current and sixth-generation Mustang rolled out for the 2015 model year, new Shelby models followed.

    2017 Shelby GT350.
    Few mainstream models come with flat-plane crank. This Shelby does.

    Voodoo You: Flat-Plane Crank

    But the Shelby changes happen much faster and typically last only for a few years before an updated model rolls out. For example, beginning in 2016, Shelby replaced the enhanced version of Ford’s 5.0-liter “Coyote” V8 with a new engine displacing at 5.2 liters. Ford assigned a “Voodoo” appellation to the engine, perhaps to underscore its “magical” properties.

    2017 Ford GT350
    Shelby models replace the steed insignia with a cobra.

    What’s special about this engine, which is also exclusive to Shelby, is that it offers a flat-plane crank. This means the V8 acts more like a pair of four-cylinder engines pushed together, delivering a sequential right-to-left firing order common to racing cars as well as to some exotics. There is a two-fold benefit here: the engine is louder than the typical cross-plane crankshaft and it revs higher — in this case to a whopping 8,250 RPM in the Shelby.

    A trained eye can spot the differences immediately — the crank pins in cross-plane crankshafts are set 90 degrees to each other, while in flat-plane engines the positioning is 180 degrees. Got it? It took me a while to understand the difference.

    No matter, the GT350 is a beast you’ll want to ride. The burly V8 cranks out 526 horsepower at 7,500 RPM and 429 pound-feet of torque at 4,750 RPM. It comes exclusively with a TREMEC 6-speed manual gearbox that shifts like butter — short, quick throws benefit your hand and foot action, although you can easily stay in second gear to reach the coveted 60 mph limit to gauge your times. A 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds is possible, with perhaps a slightly better time realized in the GT350R as it comes in 130 pounds lighter thanks to such deleted items as the back seat, air conditioning, carpeting along with employing other weight-saving measures.

    2017 Shelby GT350
    The Shelby serves up a simple, sporty interior.

    The Best Handling Mustang Ever

    Besides the flat-plane crank, the current Shelby offers an important departure from previous models. Where the earlier ones excelled in all things straight-line performance, this one adds excellent handling. Yes, a muscle car with speed and the adroit handling common to Europe’s finest cars is what this latest Shelby is all about. You can thank the Ford Performance engineers for imbuing this coupe with a magnetic suspension, a cross-drilled brake system and ultra-sticky/ultra-wide Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires (surrounding 19-inch painted aluminum wheels) with improving same.

    2017 Shelby GT350
    Brembos and cross-drilled brakes.

    Slip behind the wheel and you may notice one thing immediately — the Recaro seats are very firm and strikingly bolstered. If you’re of a certain age, the front seats can quickly become tiresome if you’re not careful. This means spending some extra time adjusting the seat for the right position and height relative to the steering column. The last thing you want is for your Shelby driving experience negated by Recaro sport seats.

    The Shelby’s red ignition button is on a panel at the bottom of the center console. It is immediately followed from left to right with switches for the emergency lights, to deactivate stability control, LC for launch control, and an exhaust note mode — sport or normal.

    Buckle in, adjust your mirrors, hold down the clutch and fire up the engine. Immediately, you’ll hear a cacophonous bellow as the engine and exhaust unite to put forth the loveliest note. Drink it all in for a few moments before shifting into gear — if it is early in the morning, your neighbors may also take note and may not be a fan of this raucous outburst.

    Begin moving forward and you’ll immediately notice the clean clutch uptake and smooth gear shifts. Modern manual transmission assemblies vary in usability — the Shelby’s is one of the best ones out there.

    2017 Shelby GT350
    At the bottom of the center console are four switches of note.

    Attracting the Competition, Steering Clear of Law Enforcement

    To understand what the Shelby is all about, you need to take it to a back road, free from traffic and devoid of police interceptors. En route, the Shelby announces its presence and quickly draws the attention of other drivers. Soon, Camaro, M Series, Corvette and SRT faithful will check you out— some may toot and give you a thumb’s up, while others will roar their engines or challenge you to a race. You know how best to respond!

    2017 Shelby GT350
    Smooth as butter: TREMEC 6-speed gearbox.

    My favorite set of twisty roads are about 20 miles from my house. It provides a straight shot for about a mile, followed by another mile of curve upon curve. Then it’s a straight shot for several more miles with the occasional bend before I turn left and begin a wonderful curving dip that takes me across a bridge before suddenly rising again. Many turns later I come to my prized location where 90-degree turns come in pairs — this is where I’m best able to gauge how a car handles.

    Grip the steering wheel and take note of the sheer “weightiness.” As you turn, you’ll feel much resistance, which also supplies assurance that the steering is deliciously engaging and feedback spot on. Harder and sharper turns come by way of a cross-axis ball-joint connection for the front control arms, offering a vast improvement over the usual bushing-supported arrangement.

    No, you don’t need to use launch control unless you’re obsessed with achieving and tracking your times. Otherwise, simply rev the engine and release the clutch when you’re ready to go. You’ll quickly shift into second gear and before you make your next upshift, you’ll have already passed 60 mph.

    2017 Shelby GT350
    Gauges and an available navigation interface.

    Shelby GT350: Conquering the Curves

    I waited until my second set of twisty expanse to gauge just how well the Shelby hangs in the curves. The “fat boy” tires are a big help as they grip the road with no signs of loosening. That the Shelby sits even lower to the road than other Mustangs helps too. When you enter 90-degree turns, you’ll notice how poised it is with no downshifting or braking required. It is as if the Shelby is eager to plunge into the curves and does so with abandon.

    Hard braking is another sign of just how refined the Shelby is. The brakes clamp down on the road with the nose remaining centered. Push hard on the gas pedal again and the GT350 quickly rebounds and stays stable when cornering.

    Make a point to lower the windows when driving to take in the full chorus of hums, toots, bellows and attendant sports car noises. Although the Shelby’s cabin isn’t especially quiet, the dropped windows ensure you miss nothing. No, you can’t get a convertible with the Shelby.

    2017 Shelby GT350
    The Recaros ensure you stay in place when buckled in.

    Parting Thoughts

    My test model was a 2017 Shelby GT350 with a base price of $54,295 plus a $950 destination charge. You’ll also pay a $1,300 gas guzzler tax. Upgrades included a ruby red metallic paint scheme ($395) and an over-the-top (roof) racing stripe ($475). A $3,000 Electronics Package added dual-zone climate control, voice-activated navigation, a CD player with satellite radio along with white striping with black accents. The final price was $60,365. These models return for 2018.

    The Shelby costs about $18,000 more than the GT Premium Fastback, the next powerful Mustang. That said, if you want some of the appearance and performance attributes of the Shelby, the gap narrows to less than $15,000. Suffice to say, by choosing today’s GT350 you’re investing in a Mustang unlike any other and better than any Shelby that has gone before it, thanks to flat-plane crank and excellent handling.

    2017 Shelby GT350
    Quad tips exhaust outlets and a raucous exhaust note. Oh, yeah!

    2017 Shelby GT350

    • Sticker price from $54,295
    • Price as tested: $60,365
    • Seats four
    • Engine: 5.2-liter V8 gas
    • 526 horsepower @ 7,500 RPM
    • 429 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,750 RPM
    • 6-speed TREMEC manual transmission
    • Wheelbase: 107.1 inches
    • Length: 188.9 inches
    • Width: 75.9 inches
    • Height: 54.2 inches
    • Passenger volume: 84.5 cubic feet
    • Storage volume: 13.5 cubic feet
    • Towing capacity: NR
    • EPA: 14/21 mpg city/highway ($1,000 gas guzzler tax)
    • Premium gasoline
    • Fuel tank: 16 gallons
    • Curb weight: From 3,760 pounds
    • IIHS safety rating: Incomplete
    • Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
    • Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
    • Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles
    • Vehicle assembly: Flat Rock, Michigan

    2017 Shelby GT350

    2017 Shelby GT350


    See Also — Top Down Steed: Ford Mustang GT Premium Convertible

    Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

    Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2017 cars, 6-SPEED GEARBOX, Carroll Shelby, FORD MUSTANG, FORD PERFORMANCE, rear-wheel drive, Recaro, Shaker, Shelby GT350, SPORTS CAR, TREMEC, V8 engine

    • Page 1
    • Page 2
    • Page 3
    • …
    • Page 18
    • Next Page »

    Primary Sidebar

    Social Media

    Visit our social media pages:
    Facebook
    Twitter
    Google+
    Pinterest

    Where is Matt Currently Published?

    CARFAX (new car reviews)
    NAPA Know How Blog
    On the Road Again

    Meta

    • Log in
    • Entries RSS
    • Comments RSS

    Pages

    • About
    • Automotive Brochures
    • Contact
    • Write
      • Style Guide

    Categories

    Recent Posts

    • Toyota C-HR: Coupe Meets Crossover
    • First Look: 2019 Toyota Avalon
    • The Next-Generation Chevrolet Equinox
    • Cute Ute: 2018 Ford EcoSport
    • Maxima Fighter: 2018 Toyota Camry XSE
    • At the Spring 2018 Charlotte AutoFair
    • Amped Up With a 2018 Nissan Leaf
    • New Pickup Truck Shopping Tips
    • High Country Chevy Silverado Delivers a Premium Package
    • Revived Lincoln Aviator Set to Take Flight
    • All-Wheel Drive Surprise: 2019 Nissan Altima
    • GMC Introduces Off-Road Sierra AT4 Line
    • Toyota: 2019 Corolla Hatchback Returns
    • Electric Avenue: BMW 740e
    • Cadillac Exclusive: Twin-Turbo V8 Engine
    • Generation Two: 2018 Buick Enclave
    • Grand SUV: Ford Expedition Platinum
    • PHEV: 2018 Mini Cooper Countryman
    • New! 2018 Lincoln Navigator Black Label
    • Rolling Classic: 2018 Chevrolet Suburban
    • The Electrified 2018 Volvo S90 T8
    • Luxury Elevated: Range Rover Velar
    • Quick Stop: IIHS Begins Rating Rear Crash Prevention Systems
    • Unpacking the 2019 Volvo XC40
    • Premium Midsize SUV: 2018 Toyota Highlander
    • Automated Driving? IIHS Researchers Detect Ambivalence
    • Enhanced Performance: 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe RST
    • Live! From the 2018 Chicago Auto Show!
    • Highlights of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler
    • Bestseller: 2018 Nissan Rogue
    • How to Keep Children Safe in a Crash
    • President Trump’s SOTU Address Touts $1.5 Trillion Infrastructure Investment
    • Waymo Expands Commitment to Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
    • Genesis to Separate From Hyundai Showrooms
    • Limited Time Only: Jaguar F-TYPE 400 SPORT
    • At a Glance: 2019 Ford Edge ST
    • Hyundai Veloster N: Namyang Performance
    • At a Glance: 2019 Kia Forte
    • New Toyota Avalon Demonstrates Commitment to a Languishing Segment
    • Refreshed Jeep Cherokee Includes New Turbo Engine
    • The Next Centennial: 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
    • Happy Centennial: 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
    • New 2019 Ram 1500 Includes Mild Hybrid Drivetrains
    • Ford Ranger Fun Facts
    • Steady as She Goes: 2018 Volkswagen Passat
    • America’s Top 10 Selling Vehicles in 2017
    • All Terrain and the 2018 GMC Acadia
    • How to Buy a Repo Vehicle
    • Super Steed: Ford Performance Enhanced Mustang GT
    • Check Engine Light On: How to Diagnose (OBD-II)
    April 2018
    S M T W T F S
    « Mar    
    1234567
    891011121314
    15161718192021
    22232425262728
    2930  

    Copyright © 2018 · News Pro on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in