Michael SatterfieldThe Barrett-Jackson stage in Scottsdale, Arizona, is no stranger to history-making moments, but today, it bore witness to something truly special. Shelby American, a wholly owned subsidiary of Carroll Shelby International Inc., shook the automotive world by unveiling the all-new 2025 Shelby GT350, the most powerful iteration of the legendary nameplate to date. Nearly 60 years to the day after Carroll Shelby himself introduced the first GT350 in 1965, the legacy of uncompromising performance continues with a modern interpretation designed to dominate both street and track.
A Nod to History, a Leap into the Future
The Shelby GT350 holds a special place in the pantheon of performance cars. When it debuted in 1965, it was Shelby American’s first venture into transforming the then-new Ford Mustang into a true sports car. It quickly became a motorsport legend, solidifying Ford’s dominance on track and setting the stage for decades of Shelby-Mustang collaborations.
Fast forward to 2025, and Shelby American is once again elevating the Mustang platform. “Sixty years ago, the Shelby GT350 marked a new chapter in performance and motorsports history,” said Joe Conway, CEO of Shelby American. “It was Shelby’s first model based on the Ford Mustang, the perfect follow-up to the ground-breaking Shelby Cobra. Shelby American poured its performance expertise into the 1965 Mustang, turning it into an iconic international sports car. We followed the same strategy for 2025 and collaborated with industry leaders to create this very special Shelby car.”
Power and Precision: The 2025 Shelby GT350
For those who crave performance but still want a car that can handle the daily commute, the 2025 Shelby GT350 is an absolute beast. Under the hood lies a naturally aspirated 5.0L V8, producing 480 horsepower in its base form. However, those seeking more exhilarating performance can opt for the supercharged version, which delivers a staggering 810 horsepower. With the option of a manual or automatic transmission, Shelby ensures that purists and modern drivers alike can experience this raw power on their own terms.
The new GT350 is not just about straight-line speed. Shelby American has meticulously tuned and upgraded the car’s suspension, exhaust, and aerodynamics.
“We increased horsepower by almost 70 percent, tuned the suspension, opened up the exhaust, smoothed the aerodynamics and gave it more sex appeal,” said Vince LaViolette, Vice President of Operations and Senior Designer at Shelby American. “The styling is based on functionality, giving the Shelby GT350 a purposeful look. However, the suspension is still supple enough to drive every day without sacrificing comfort.”
Track-Ready: The 2025 Shelby GT350R
For those who live for the track, the 2025 Shelby GT350R is a no-compromise machine. With over 830 horsepower and a standard six-speed manual transmission, this car is built to dominate road courses. The GT350R comes with a host of enhancements inspired by Shelby’s future Trans Am spec race car, including a carbon fiber interior ‘tub,’ optional carbon fiber racing seats, an integrated roll cage, and an aggressive carbon fiber aerodynamic package.
“While the 2025 Shelby GT350 street car is civilized enough for a daily commute, the Shelby GT350R was built for the serious weekend track warrior,” said LaViolette. “Embracing the character of the 1965 competition model Shelby, our focus was on lightening the car, sharpening the performance, and keeping it cool on the road course.”
ProSystems Alcon racing brakes handle braking, while fully adjustable JRI race struts and shocks with remote reservoirs ensure the suspension is dialed in for high-speed cornering. Just like the original 1965 competition model, only 36 units of the 2025 GT350R will be built, each finished in white with the option of race-inspired gold, silver, or black stripes, or a classic blue and white Shelby heritage package.
Shelby Returns to Racing
Shelby American has always been synonymous with racing, from dominating the FIA World Sportscar Championship in 1965 to winning Trans Am championships in 1966 and 1967. Now, Shelby is preparing to make its triumphant return to Trans Am competition, partnering with Turn Key Automotive/Motorsports to develop a track-only version of the 2025 Shelby GT350 that will compete in the 2026 season.
Turn Key Automotive/Motorsports has an impressive pedigree in performance parts, racing, and niche vehicle programs. “We’re honored to help Shelby American return one of the most iconic names to the track,” said Turn Key owner Rich Rinke. “We are excited to assist Shelby by bridging the connection between consumer and racing.”
Jack Rinke, a Turn Key Development Engineer, is already preparing to race the GT350R in the 2026 Trans Am season, further cementing Shelby’s legacy in motorsports. “We are deeply honored by the history and our connection to Ken Miles and the Carroll Shelby story,” said Rinke.
Limited Availability and Pricing
With its unparalleled performance and deep racing heritage, the 2025 Shelby GT350 is set to be one of the most sought-after Mustangs of the modern era. In keeping with tradition, Shelby American will produce 562 units—matching the production numbers from 1965—with a starting MSRP of $109,999 for the supercharged version. Meanwhile, the ultra-exclusive GT350R will be available in a limited run of just 36 units, with pricing to be announced soon.
Production of the GT350 will begin in the second quarter of 2025, with vehicles available through select Ford dealers and Shelby mod shops in the United States, as well as limited international distribution. Each car will be documented in the official Shelby Registry and will come with a three-year/36,000-mile warranty, with Ford’s powertrain warranty remaining intact.
The Shelby GT350 Legacy Lives On
Whether you’re a die-hard Shelby enthusiast or someone looking to experience the thrill of a true sports car, the 2025 Shelby GT350 offers something for everyone. With its blend of heritage, cutting-edge performance, and undeniable presence, this car is set to carve out its own legendary status in the annals of automotive history.
For more information or to reserve your piece of Shelby history, visit Shelby.com.
Photos Courtesy of Shelby America
