In 1964, Ford Motor Company unleashed the legendary Mustang, a compact sports car that quickly captured the American imagination. The following year it was reborn into Shelby GT350.
To amplify its burgeoning sporty image and drive sales, Ford set its sights on the competitive arena of Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) races.
This ambition led to a pivotal partnership with the honored American auto racer, engineer and designer – Carroll Shelby, giving birth to an automotive icon: the 1965 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350.
The SCCA regulations for these races were stringent, permitting only vehicles produced in series of over 100 units, with strict prohibitions against engine, suspension, and brake modifications from the production model. The sole allowance was for weight reduction. Recognizing the need for a factory-backed performance variant, Ford enlisted Shelby American, a move that would forever etch the GT350 into the annals of motorsport history.
Engineering for the Track: The Shelby GT350 Core
The 65′ Shelby GT350, based on the sleek Mustang fastback body, was designed from the ground up with racing in mind, even in its “near-factory” configuration. Shelby American meticulously converted the stock Mustang into a formidable competitor.
The kernel of the Shelby GT350 was a tuned 4.7-liter (289 cubic inch) OHV engine, an option already available for all Mustangs. This powerhouse was significantly enhanced, delivering a maximum power of 310 hp at 6000 rpm and a maximum torque of 45.7 Nm at 4200 rpm. Its majestic accomplishment, specifically 306 hp and 446.8 Nm of torque, was a testament to Shelby’s performance tuning expertise. The car featured a Rear (FR) drive layout and was Naturally Aspirated, ensuring a direct and visceral connection to the road.
Beyond the engine, the Shelby GT350 has got a suite of modifications aimed at performance and compliance with racing rules. It was equipped with a lightweight fiberglass hood and functional air scoop on it, a stiff racing suspension for superior handling, and a limited-slip differential to maximize traction. The transmission casing was crafted from aluminum, contributing to overall weight savings.
In a clear nod to its racing purpose, the GT350 shed many creature comforts: rear seats were removed, along with the heater, power steering, and sound insulation. To further optimize weight distribution, the battery was strategically relocated to the trunk, and even the spare wheel found its place within the cabin.
| Engine Displacement | 4272 cm3 (4.7-liter / 289 cubic inch) |
| Engine Type | OHV V8 |
| Max. Power | 310 hp / 6000 rpm (tuned to 306 hp) |
| Max. Torque | 45.7 Nm / 4200 rpm (tuned to 446.8 Nm) |
| Drive/Induction | Rear (FR) / Naturally Aspirated |
| Body Style | Fastback |
Key Features Fiberglass hood with air scoop, stiff racing suspension, limited-slip differential, aluminum transmission casing, no rear seats, battery in trunk, spare wheel in cabin.
Shelby GT350’s Dominance on the Track
The meticulous engineering paid off handsomely on the racetrack. The 1965 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 instantly proved its mettle, dominating SCCA races for three consecutive years.
This remarkable success solidified the Mustang’s recognition as a serious sports car and cemented Carroll Shelby’s status as a master of performance tuning.
Today, the 1965 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 remains a highly sought-after collector’s item, celebrated for its raw mighty, distinctive style, and unparalleled racing heritage. It stands as an enduring symbol of American muscle car excellence and a testimony to the golden era of automotive performance.
