Shelby GT350R 1 Year Ownership Review & Why It's So Special

[@KheetahCheetah]

I took my kona blue 350R to the beach today while it was only 1 degree celsius outside. This is a keeper for life.

[@fcz64]

What's bringing it to the Beach at a certain temperature have to do with it being a keeper..?? Just trying to understand your comment..?? Thanx. I'm sure you have a Fine Ride. Good luck. Be safe.

[@MStrange88]

@@fcz64 probably because you shouldn’t drive it in too cold of weather due to the tires and probably the oil he has too. He’s just saying that he doesn’t care and that he enjoys the car too much. Just my theory. It is a confusing comment without clarification lol

[@carnationvideos4258]

You better hang on to that car. It will be very collectible in the future.

[@dwade3202]

My thoughts exactly, but then I always think that you need to buy 2, one to sell one to hold on to :D

[@edwardgrant69]

My opinion: If you hold on to a car like this just so you can make profit in the future you never liked the car. And shouldn’t own to begin with it.

[@davidswestcoastpainting8510]

Drive them to the ground!..made to be driven not collect dust.....my 2cents

[@dougb3740]

Can’t believe it’s been a year already. I remember watching the video when it was being delivered to you. Crazy how time flies. Thank You for sharing all of your content. Always look forward to watching it.

[@autofanaticcars]

I know!!

[@autofanaticcars]

thats because this entire 2020 seems to be a year everyone wants to forget about. I also can not believe how much time has passed since myself.

[@anthonylaudano9751]

@@autofanaticcars Hey man I have mustangs myself and at first I didn't like the new body style. Also when I drove the r and the street version I loved how they handled and sounded but the only thing I was a little unhappy with was the power and TQ.But I am going buy my 900hp super snake and my gt500.Those 2 car's have so much raw power and a lot of TQ.But I really thinking of getting a 350 street version just for the track . Road course must be a blast.Also from what I understand the prices on them with under 5thousand miles on them are reasonable.

[@nathanwabre]

COVID has nothing to do with your perception...

[@domingoalicea8905]

@@autofanaticcars I own a 2019 shelby gt350 Any suggestions on tire sizes for the factory wheels Thanks

[@MachineGunner29]

I got a 2019 gt350r in velocity blue and I live on Long Island NY. Love the car so much!

[@autofanaticcars]

thats a great color on the R

[@bajamike3803]

I have a 2020 velocity blue and I’m Long Island NY. How are you liking our roads lol

[@gummybear41283]

why do you love it

[@Azmodious78]

That Speedkore car you showed is mine. I have about 10k miles on it. Love it. No more body gap issues!

[@autofanaticcars]

Hi Chris would you mind sending me a direct email; would love to chat with you via phone one day regarding the build. My contact info is in my video description above. thanks again

[@waalala23]

Hey Chris! Awesome car. Would love to see a video of how the car drives compared to the standard R.

[@ap-op1wy]

you were a huge inspiration for me in getting my 2019 GT350R... it went from the joy of owning this car, and also finding the right price for this car and not to over pay! I ended up buying my new 2019 GT350R for 68.8k about 4k below MSRP!

[@autofanaticcars]

awesome hope your enjoying your GT350R

[@belminzvekic4694]

What color?

[@staccatoglock]

@@belminzvekic4694 for 68.8k it must have been yellow😂

[@youngrider929]

I’m in Staten Island I have a 2020 twister orange R..... she has 80 miles on it from the drive home- only being washed once I’m not planning on driving it until it’s paint corrected/ppf front end/ ceramic coated.... I haven’t seen any 350’s around.... and you nailed it no car shows....

[@autofanaticcars]

Sweet color choice would love to see yours one day. Lets hope 2020 vanishes from everyones life soon than later so we can get back to normal soon, i can not stand how things have been this year.

[@gzzzup1]

You are a 100% spot on in my opinion about the extra upcharge for the “R”. I upgraded my calipers on my 17 GT350 with you in race red as well as installed an “R” front splitter and just purchased in stock configuration FORGELINE GT1 5 lug rims in black DLC finish and couldn’t be happier. I actually think the rims look way better and are of superior quality and strenth over the “R” rims so for me I was able to personalize and make my GT350 look different at the same time I added some “R” parts without breaking the bank and or getting screwed over like so many have by crooked dealers trying to rip off the consumer. Great video glad to see you doing some Shelby content been awhile 😉👍🏻

[@autofanaticcars]

Forgelines are #1 in my opinion I am considering a set of centerlocks now for my Alfa.

[@gzzzup1]

@@autofanaticcars Do it you wont regret it plus your “R” rims arent that much lighter than the FORGELINE’S and you can take them off and store them before something happens to them God forbid. The “lightened” steering response over the stock 350 rims is so ridiculously noticeable and appreciated it’s stupid... FORGELINE’S FTW!!!

[@avim2578]

This car is a marvel. I wouldn't sell it for a 488 personally, don't like that Ferrari is taking the turbo route like all the other companies. Only car I would trade this for is a C63 Black Series or any GT-R by Mercedes. Still though, hold onto this thing it will skyrocket in half a decade.

[@SnakrGarage]

I have the same combination as you, kona blue / white stripes, and I love it, and everybody has to twirl their head when they see it. Please, do not sell it, I think you would regret it in the future. Great content, keep it coming... Thanks

[@autofanaticcars]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@SnakrGarage]

I bought mine (2020 R) for your. Same configuration, same features. I wish I could keep seeing it in your channel, it’s an special car. But, you have right, you need to think in your channel, keep growing. And I think you are more an European car guy. Aren’t you?

[@autofanaticcars]

Im not partial to brands of cars as long as there is something special about them from the design, engineering and experience im all for it. Nothing can be a direct comparison to the Shelby Gt350 so its tough to ever replace this without switching different directions on something more exotic

[@rembo183]

@@autofanaticcars - How do you like the new GT4 with PDK or manual or the GTS 4.0.? You might enjoy this Porsche rather then this GT350R. The PDK version of the new Cayman 4.0 or GT4 PDK might be fun and better build quality!

[@tedjohnson64]

Very impressed with the honest comments about the dash rattles and rear wing impeding identification of cops.

[@2brandonguerrero2]

The carbon conversion would be unreal! Great car. Thanks for making the vid 👍🏼

[@nismo2004]

AWESOME muscle car man!I have the Shelby GT350R as a 1:64 scale model by Tarmac Works and I really love it and admire it,it's probably super cool to have it in real life.It is a MASTERPIECE!

[@tuomasholo]

This video has been very informative. I’m in the market for a 350R now and I believe I’ll get the 350 and buy CF wheels.

[@nyc_-qm5kd]

I would do the carbon fiber body! Makes the car 400 or 600lbs lighter! What a one of a kind car! Love your vids man! Strong island stangs tuning in!

[@scaryperryx1050]

If I had the Money, I would LOVE that car... That Color!!!

[@rembo183]

Excellent review...your honesty was refreshing! I’m not a track or drag strip type but love to drive the backroads. I own a 2019 Bullitt and a 2008 Miata. The Miata is more fun to drive because of it’s much lighter weight and very nimble balanced feel. So much fun to drive both of these. I looked at the GT350 but after driving one I felt the Bullitt was a better fit for my driving. The Miata is a great addition. Cheap fun!

[@streetboyz1096]

IMO I would buy the R all day long. It’s my dream car. I have been in many of them (350’s and R’s) and I love the more aggressive splitter, big “wing”, carbon wheels, red badges, and it sounds better.

[@autofanaticcars]

all awesome cars but you can make a standard 350 even more bad ass with some tasteful mods and they are plentiful these days.

[@timothycc711]

Can't you put those R bits on you regular 350?

[@hoosierproud7718]

Not a stang fan but damn that one is amazing. Would love to own one like that. That car with the right color and pkg. U really can't go wrong.

[@Kraziken0]

I love the GT350R wing. But you are right. At night, the wing perfectly blocks headlights. I can't tell anyone is behind me. I have a Kona GT350, and I couldn't justify the upgrade costs to swap to a GT350R. So, I've swapped most of the GT350R parts. Wing, splitter. Front grill. Springs. I am just missing the Carbon Fiber rims.

[@DucatiDiaries]

CF rebody would be epic. Hope your back gets back to 100% Phil.

[@autofanaticcars]

thanks man i just wish things were normal with everyone i think thats my delay doing something crazy like the rebody lol, i cant wait for the new year to roll around before my midlife crisis kicks into overdrive

[@DucatiDiaries]

@@autofanaticcars Haha I've been in my mid-life crisis for 12 years. :O)

[@1stfrompuertorico568]

1st from Puerto Rico 👍🇵🇷

[@bfielder9097]

I appreciate the honesty from you. A lot of people own X car and they'll say how great everything is and nothing is wrong. So it's cool to see someone be realistic. Also if it were my money (And of course it isn't lol) 458>488.

[@autofanaticcars]

thanks for watching, i actually drive all my cars often and use them in the real world and since i work on so many different cars each week and own so many other cars i drive i kinda like to put things into a realistic perspective in my car content. I still love the R regardless but im lusting after a modern Ferrari for sometime now still.

[@bfielder9097]

@@autofanaticcars Good deal. I wish you all the best on your quest for the Ferrari. As someone who absolutely loves the 458 I'm hoping you go that route. The 488 is probably the better car but the 458 is just more raw, it sounds unbelievable and money wise it probably won't depreciate much if any. Best of luck.

[@timeatak5248]

I’m in the same boat as you as far as my next car. I swap cars every 1-2 years. I track my cars often and it’s very hard to find the perfect car that checks all the boxes. I was thinking a GT350 but a ZL1 1LE is also a viable competitor to this car at this price point. It’s just chasing unicorns without ever finding that perfect car. Unless I steal a 992 GT3 RS. Very honest review BTW.

[@brianwilson483]

I love my 350 non r. I fully enjoy your content, I'm obviously biased keep it.

[@doncobin4408]

I had a 17 GT350, with Forgeline wheels, we talked when you were doing wheels on the red car. I traded it in for a GT500 which I hated, lucky it had a electrical issue which put the car out of service for over 30 days. So ford bought it back. Since I loved the other GT350 I just bought a 2020 GT350R. Luckily I couldn't sell the Forgelines, so put the Forgelines on the new R. You are right about the carbon wheels, but don't want to ruin the fiber wheels. With the same wheels on each car you are right there isn't a big difference between the regular GT350 and the R. Thought the stock size super sports help with ground clearance protects the front splitter a little bit. The 19 or 20 R's have the GT500 knuckles which is why it tracks better To me the 350 in either version is a special car, so fun, so tossable, and better overall the the GT500. if you do any mod, QA1 carbon fiber driveshaft

[@autofanaticcars]

thanks for sharing owning the GT500 i just do not think I would go that route. I may sell the R soon to just experience something new as I can not keep all these cars at one time.

[@williamclark3712]

Another excellent video Phil. I agree with you re the wheels on the R. They make a huge difference and I've never understood people buying the R and then immediately taking off the CF wheels. Also don't forget that the Sport Cup 2 tires on the regular GT350 are not the same as those on the R.

[@autofanaticcars]

yeah i also never understood spending the up-charge to get the R, yank the carbon wheels for fear of damaging them and tuck them away for when they sell the car ha ha ha. Are the cup 2 on the standard car a different compound? I know the sizes are smaller and I did drive a 19 GT350 and it felt almost identical to my car on the street minus the difference i feel with the carbon wheels.

[@williamclark3712]

The R spec Cup2 tires have a softer compound than the regular GT350 Cup2 tires and have more dry grip. The tread is different on the regular GT350 Cup2 tires and they have better wet performance than the R spec.

[@lovethesmellofracefuelinth7374]

Even though I'm a Mopar enthusiast through & through, l also like GTs alot and is a sweet machine right there. They should have used better quality carbon fiber for the rear spoiler instead of in the interior, and would have been more than for aesthetics. Yeah I can't see spending that much on carbon rims if it's not being tracked all the time either, and probably not worth it. We recently replaced the wheels on my Challenger SRT8 with 17in racestars, and only weigh 18 pounds each. Wrapped them in 305x45 Mickey T 305s, and should hook now. Speedcore are great innovative builders, and have been looking on their online store at body panels for the barge lol. As we all know, the LX platform cars are heavy and am trying to cut some fat. We replaced the exhaust from the cat's back with a minimal setup, so we saved around 60 lbs on that alone. As there are no resonators and just 2 open chamber racing bullets, on 3in pipe and isn't much to them. Although it really speaks volumes for the gen3 hemis and cube for cube, make great power and are pretty damn quick for their hefty size 🚤 💪🏼😎

[@dev_travel_channel]

You have great taste in cars! And I say this because I have one of the vehicles you have and the other one is on my shopping list.

[@autofanaticcars]

Very cool!

[@peterjna12]

That’s the perfect color for the gt350r

[@calvinmack206]

I am a GT350 owner. I plan to keep my car forever. I love my GT350. Now I dis see a GT350R ans it was like 19000 more. I like having a rear seat even though who is sitting in thw back. Lop Man that Carbon Fiber make over would be a bad ass..

[@joelm9811]

Keep the 350R. I have a 2020 F150 Super Snake, 2020 GT500 and the 2020 GT350 Heritage, now I'm looking for a Red 355 like yours.

[@autofanaticcars]

Good choice!

[@garneauweld1100]

From first-person feedback, these are some of the best track day cars. Guys love Vipers etc, but everybody loves the R at speed. Looks like Ford really did their homework on this one.

[@beeslandscaping]

Don’t waste the money 💰 sell it. Hell yeah get that Ferrari Phil

[@1stfrompuertorico568]

My uncle has a Shelby Cobra replica 1968. Only 3 people in Puerto Rico have it. Beautiful car you have. I think because of health reasons on your back doesn't seem to continue with it. I am not an expert but also with all the money you have spent you must enjoy it longer. Also, in order to enjoy it longer then something would be better to explore to have excercises or chiropractic care so helps you better for your back. Check out possibly Dr. Rahim in California or in Houston Advanced Chiropractic Relief. Check out their videos just in case.

[@apocalypse487]

He needs a sports medicine doctor, not a advanced massage therapist.

[@Tristannn303]

i want to buy a gt350 but the only thing that bothers me is the ground clearance. So my question is how often do yall scrape your front fender going up steep drive ways and going over speed bumps???? And can you replace the front fender after scraping it up?

[@autofanaticcars]

Scrape often but piece is pretty strong there are spares you can buy it n ebay

[@Tristannn303]

@@autofanaticcars thanks🤙

[@carminefilice7901]

DON'T SELL!! Over time do some trick mods performance wise. If it's paid for, it's gotta be a keeper.If you sell, give me a shout! I'll buy and add to my collection.I got a '17 Shelby GT 350 and park yours and keep it on the sneak lol.Nice vid too. Cheers. I'm in Canada.You see some where I'm from but they're not a dime a dozen.KEEP!!

[@westpalmdoc]

my GT3 rattles. i asked Porsche about it, they basically said that race cars for the street rattle. they were correct. these aint E class sedans.

[@tcolley]

What year? I’ve had both GT350R and 991.2 GT3. The build quality difference is insane! Miss my Shelby tho

[@tcolley]

I’ve had the wing off, shocked how light it was!

[@autofanaticcars]

I like the Speedkore Carbon wing with aluminum stems super slick looking.

[@aaronmcgrady467]

Exact car I’ll be looking to buy in a few months. Looks like bear mountain, ny near me. Dealer near there has a heritage at sticker FYI

[@patricksteele4594]

The carbon body would be incredible as well as your insights on how much it improves performance .If you need a softer ride compliance due to your back, test drive a Lotus Evora 400.

[@msteele3199]

Ford has canceled the car, keep it. Instant classic!

[@josephgariano7692]

Dude , alot of people out there feel that this car is going to double in value over the next 5 years. Not to mention that kona blue with the white stripes is visually stunning,and is a very desirable color combo.The aftermarket value has increased over 15% in the past year alone. Good luck with it.

[@autofanaticcars]

yes i know i rarely drive the R anymore with these bad roads and my lower back issues and I have been thinking of selling it but I know I will regret it. I can sell it now for more than I paid as the market is nuts now with specialty cars.

[@crisworkizer]

Just keep it is the way it is. Its bad ass

[@swanblake]

I love the honesty here. Easily the most level headed owner review I've seen. The 2018+ GT350 is a dream car of mine. My neighbor has one and it is the greatest exhaust note I've ever heard. The reinforced bottom end on the newer GT350 has me hoping it will be more reliable than the first Voodoo iteration. Speedcore is a mile away from me so of course I want to see it

[@thegeneral8133]

Brother I love your honesty comparing the GT 350 and 350R. I said from the outset that it was not worth the premium price to upgrade because not only were the cars very similar, you could upgrade the GT 350 to handle and sound like the R for a fraction of the cost...My close friend paid $25K over sticker and I begged him not to do such a foolish thing..I also have a friend that paid 20K over sticker to get the new C8..These are some of the worst final decisions people could make on a car. Now my friend is trying to sell his GT 350R and they are offering him low 50's. He lost soooo much money on his car that is only 2 years old with 7K miles.

[@autofanaticcars]

thanks for watching and sharing those scenarios I can not believe why guys overpay for cars look what happened when the Hellcats came out and a year later dealers could not even sell them as msrp and they were able to be leased. the 350R was a nice leap over the very early GT350 like the 2016-2017 but Ford in 2018 made so many updates and further took almost everything from the R and threw it into the standard 350 by 2019-2020 that the only major difference are the carbon wheels which is what I wanted to experience. in 2018 Ford updated the mag ride, cooling parts, interiors , PScup tires and more. Not sure why they did this but they realized where the higher sales volume would end up being I guess. Either version of the Shelby GT350 is special and one of the most visceral cars to own hands down.

[@MrAlansordo]

PLEASE DO THE CARBON FIBER CONVERSION!!! I have not seen anybody showing videos of speedkore conversion!

[@autofanaticcars]

i think it would be one of a kind and neat to share the process with you guys its just an idea but lets see what i decide.

[@jncplacido]

Do the SpeedKore conversion and interior overhaul. Why not? The fact that the car is no longer made and that you're the first owner, I would love to see you take the car to a whole new level and add your unique personal touch. Ferraris are nice but I don't follow you for having one. I have an R and it gives me pure enjoyment to see someone as meticulous as you owns one and actually loves it. Make it your own and I'll be right along with you and thousands of others for the journey. No one else out there owns a full carbon fiber Speedkore R. We are counting on you. 🙏

[@josephgariano7692]

Dude if you do the speed core route please give the weight of the car after the change over.Also,please give accurate times on performance increases like 0-60 garter mi and top end speeds. Also include braking and handling increases in the car. I don't know why, but speed core is very vague about these figures. I Mean if you're paying roughly double the price of the car for these improvements I feel that speed core should be more forthright dispensing these numbers publicly. Thanks for all the info, your site is the best, keep up the great work.

[@autofanaticcars]

Oh 100% yes i would be doing lots of testing if i did it. I emailed and called many times this week and they still never responded back to me not sure if they are working full time these days or not.

[@blackdot1128]

You should consider doing the carbon car option. That would be sick. You’d be the first to show it online. And I love you channel. I should’ve bought that Shelby but I went with a 2019 Loaded up GT. Just isn’t the same.

[@autofanaticcars]

Enjoy your GT its a great car and so many updates since I got my GT in 2014

[@blackdot1128]

@@autofanaticcars I do enjoy it. I had a 2016 GT and enjoyed it thoroughly. When it came time to upgrade I was faced with a choice. A fully loaded (new at the time) 2019 GT with the 10- speed or get a 2017 Shelby with only 1000 miles on it. And I made the wrong choice lol. The 10 speed is fast but I should’ve got the 350. I think about it almost nightly hahaha

[@autofanaticcars]

I was given a 10speed GT last year and the dealer tagged along as i tried to shoot a video and he was like a bad drivers ed instructor panicked how fast i was going so I never shot the full review. I think the 10speed feels better in the Camaro Zl1 due to the programming of it but either way its very practical for daily use.

[@maxxarchuleta617]

Hey brotha who does the edit of your logo in the beginning of your videos man’s that’s fire!!

[@jdjames997]

I wouldn’t mess with the car, i know you need content for the channel, but now that the 350 is discontinued everything you change will devalue it (even if you keep the old parts, some people just don’t like rare cars like this modified, including me.) Doing some interior upgrades might not be a bad idea, because S550 interiors suck, sorry but they’re just not up to European car standards, so those changes might be worth it, and if they’re not any drastic changes on interior color if you sell the car even a collector might appreciate it some leather added and upgrades inside that simply improve the “quality” feel of the interior. Secondly, being a subscriber for a while, i know you drive your cars, and don’t baby them. That being the case, i would get a nice set of forged wheels with some Michelin’s with all weather tread on them and store the carbon wheels for track days or to give to the next buyer. Your streets and weather are going to kill those wheels, which would be a crime. Lastly, I know some guys like that wing on the “R” I’m not a fan like you, which is a personal thing. If your going to keep the car for a while, I’d find a nice high end rear spoiler you like that doesn’t modify the trunk if possible and just swap them, keeping the factory wing for collector or resale value. Maybe you can find a high end open carbon fiber spoiler (lightweight) you like, which would compliment the car. These are just opinions, but the beauty of making content for your channel is if your careful you can do things you want to the car without devaluing it, which to me is important, since these cars are just going to get more rare as time goes on, even though their production numbers aren’t super low (I know the “R” has low numbers, and your color is rare, but not sure how much difference that will make on resale versus say a “Heritage edition” 350 or 350R. Lastly, I saw a video a guy made of his GT350 with a super high end 4K camera and it was cinematic, just driving it and talking about his feeling and joy of owning the car, it had massive views, and he had low subscribers, almost like watching a documentary in super high quality, that might be cool if your able to do some videos like that, since you have great passion for your vehicles. Love the channel, and your taste in cars, keep up the high quality content. Oh, and i almost forgot, while you might get some excitement from subscribers on the carbon fiber body, don’t do it. Not only is it a waste of money, it’s kind of like taking an almost perfect car and repainting it a different color, you alter the car in a way that you just can’t come back from. Also, I think carbon fiber “look” is a fad, it may not be cool in say 15 or 20 years when this car might be worth a crap ton of money had you just left it close to stock IMHO. There’s so much crap carbon fiber weave out there it almost cheapens the real thing, if you catch my drift.

[@RadDadisRad]

This was the year they had all the problems fixed. Beautiful car.

[@autofanaticcars]

i had zero issues with my 15 and 17s luckily

[@owensdetailing5333]

Phil, put this one in your "COOL"lection. You do have a lot of old injuries that are causing you discomfort as you age. I have watched your Video's since day one and I always appreciate your honesty.

[@brandonnixon7105]

You need those little R badges for the 350 badges on the fenders.

[@autofanaticcars]

was on my things to do list during lockdown but forgot all about those.

[@andrewjacobson556]

Its a collector leave it alone, pass it down!!

[@drepop803]

my next car will be a gt350. i originally wanted an R but i wont track it so i dont need the wheels. figure i'd save 10-15k. plan on keeping it forever so i dont care about the better resale of the R. i also dont have that ego thing either. theres two gt350R owners on youtube with that tough guy ego thing. they're small channels but i couldnt subscribe after their "dude bro" talk about how they have to correct ppl call it a 350. "like its an R bro"

[@autofanaticcars]

ha ha ha thanks for watching and check out my other GT350 content if you really need to be influenced to own one my videos will sure get you in the drivers seat as it did for thousands of fans.

[@billlovitz6725]

SpeedKore all day, the content would be amazing. 👍🏼

[@shaniranikauboj]

458 definitely sound better than 488. Straight pipe 458 is insane. I am exited to see onebor another on this channel.

[@autofanaticcars]

I love the 458 the only thing is there quite old on the second hand market and might be a PITA of upkeep unless I found a true gem, the 488 is newer but also more money. I even like the 599GTB and F12 which both would be more usable more often.

[@f430ferrari5]

@@autofanaticcars Ferrari’s from the 360 to now are quite reliable. Many have low mileage so you really don’t have to worry about upkeep. Have you ever even considered an F430? I love mine. I’ve had it 13 years. I’ve driven a 458 also. It’s for sure a better car but some don’t want to pay 50k+ more. I have a 1966 Mustang Fastback and come from a Ford family so that’s why I watch Mustang vids like those for the 350R. The one thing I dislike about the Mustangs of today is that they are just too heavy. Many cars just get bigger and heavier to compensate for the extra horsepower people want. It’s counter intuitive.

[@robcourtnall5332]

Choice: Hearing it from, Randy Pobst, pro racer, Ford Performance, endless. Some “why’s of the car” and if you choose it, what, NOT to change. If you pick the GT350 that is fine also, but these are radically different and modification is not a good idea. Why? This car is built for the track, track times and every single thing, part, has a profound purpose. A track car, street legal, versus, the GT350, more for the city, that can be put on the track, but not even close. The front splitter, is fully functional, to feed the intake, cooling, everything and all done with purpose, not looks. The carbon fibre wheels, lighter, work extremely well on the track. The wing, can produce, relatively, 200llbs of down force, keeping this car nailed down on the track, like Laguna Seca, Willow Springs, everywhere and daily driving. The interior is not changed by accident. The carbon fibre on the dash was a mistake. It was all done in matte black, the material chosen, to stop sun reflection on a track, from all angles. This car, was so tuned for track, anything changed, is a mistake, as nothing is for show. Cars of old, or others, are made and people customize them, but in the R, it is made for lap times, maximum traction, glued to the road, minimal under steer, or over steer, goes around corners and out of corners, fast, pinned down. Changing the carbon fibre wheels on the car, ruins it. It is like taking a real racing car, everything for a reason, race ready, the someone changing things, right before a race, ruining how everything cooperates. That is a lot of work by Ford Performance, pro racers, good drivers, raving about it and why it can sell for up to $25k over sticker, not for extra profit, but customers fighting over them, like bidding on a house. If this is annoying, personalization is wanted, then get the GT350, not the R. It is about, what the buyer wants. The R is obviously for “Race” Tuned, but the car manual, should say, don’t screw with anything. * Not better, or worse, buying one over the other, but what the owner wants. This is not challenging the video, but a few offerings for the right choice of model. Also, I am in no position to tell anyone what to do with what car they choose, as it is not my hard earned money. Just helping an informed decision. If the features are annoying on the R, choosing the GT350 would be a smarter buy, but thinking that it will perform on the track the same, far from it, it won’t. I had the hard choice! Do I want a track car, tuned to perfection, that is street legal, more money, no way I would change anything, or, do I want a thrilling experience, for less money, personalize it, but no way, would I take that car, on a real track, but I likely wouldn’t anyway. On winding roads, fun roads, not looking for a speeding ticket, I want the R. * This is shared information, not my opinion, from Ford Performance, Pro drivers (I am not one), really talented testers, on a road track, often with Randy Pobst and their explanations, were what I passed on, NOT to challenge, help explain, an informed buy, what you are getting and the far differences, between the regular GT350 and GT350R. Many similarities. The R, track tuned, every single thing on it, tuned to race, so I, on an R, would modify nothing, personally, knowing, I would ruin their hard work. A huge shift, from former Mustangs and former cars, not, straight line, modify, personalize, etc, but Ford Performance suggests: don’t modify the R, everything is cooperating for the track. Food for thought only, no, right or wrong, after much research, to help me choose, not tell anyone else what to do. All the best. Enjoy your car, it will be great regardless AND, GREAT VIDEO! :)

[@mwsanity6438]

Do the conversion. That would look completely badass! It would be very rare to have that.

[@autofanaticcars]

oh it def would be im waiting for them to call me to discuss this in extensive detail further. However the cost of it plus my car can also get me another nice P car of F car to play with.

[@LeadfootLou]

She was a beauty. Love the Kona blue with the white stripes. This was made 3 months ago and you probably sold this car.

[@autofanaticcars]

i still have the car i am considering selling it since i barely drive it anymore but i am not sure yet

[@LeadfootLou]

@@autofanaticcars - I bought a base model velocity blue 2020 gt500 on 1/6. It has white vinyl stripes. It won’t be driven in the winter. Your channel came up when I googled “GT500 in the winter”.It was interesting hearing your New York accent since I grew up in the Bronx. I now live in the very warm state of Minnesota. 🥶

[@_Random_Dude__]

When I see these car reviews from the US I always wonder how you can enjoy actually driving with speed limits all over the place.

[@autofanaticcars]

nobody follows speed limits really these days

[@_Random_Dude__]

@@autofanaticcars why is this, isn't there police everywhere? I wonder because I love to watch 'cops' or 'livePD'. When you watch 2 or 3 episodes there your impression will be: there's police literally everywhere on highways in the US. So I googled 'speedlimit NY state' and it's 55 MPH😱. And you can get in jail fir driving only like 5 MPH above the speed limit (trafficsafety.ny.gov/penalties-speeding). And for me personally it's very important to never get in touch with the police, so driving fast and hoping not getting pulled over wouldn't be an option for me. How do you handle this issue? Having the feeling to do something illegal driving my car would steal the fun + losing my driver's license for speeding (or even spending one single day in jail) would be pure horror for me. I couldn't be a happy man happy driving 55MPH in a Porsche with every toyota dude as fast as me. If traffic allows I push my Carrera 4S 992 Coupé to 300 km/h which is about 188 MPH, this life quality for me. Great car btw, love your channel.

[@mattvatter5200]

The 350 and R are more track than street cars in my experience. I've had my 350 just over a year and have done 5 track events. I'd think the mods you do should fit the task at hand. If you want a show car, do the carbon body. In my book, a full carbon body is too high a risk if you are pushing it on the track. But its a unique car that will be very special in 25 years regardless your mods. Good luck!.

[@guitfan1954]

I have had a 17 gt350 and an 18 gt350r. They are great cars especially for the money. That said I’m selling the 18 and looking for either a Ferrari 458 with low miles or Audi R8 this spring. The R8 has the all wheel drive and the technology and of course the 458 has the last naturally aspirated v8. Not sure but I’m ready for something new... good luck man!

[@autofanaticcars]

nice keep me posted on what you even decide the R8 is cool but i prefer RWD cars mostly but a gated R8 is sweet. and the 458 is special and holding and rising in value still which means getting one must happen soon if you want one. tough decisions because the GT350 is so unique that there is no other car that directly can replace it unless your willing to change to something extreme like you and I are thinking.

[@raptor2126]

These cars are going up in value, you have a good color combo, I say keep it and replace black plastic bits with carbon fiber parts

[@raptor2126]

Also you can expose the carbon fiber weave on the wheels and I think it looks awesome, that would be a great project to do

[@autofanaticcars]

I have considered that but i barely use the car anymore since I got hurt months back with my back. I am contemplating selling it for a more easier car to drive but not sure right now.

[@rembo183]

@@autofanaticcars - Maybe iyou should drive a Miata! It’s so cheap and so much fun but it is certainly not in a “supercar” category like a Ferrari etc etc.

[@henryjiang7271]

Beautiful car. Love this spec

[@autofanaticcars]

Me too!

[@andrewjacobson556]

Now that there stopping production yes i would buy one!!

[@Tain950]

Love the honestly 👍

[@JD-fx1mb]

I like the Speed Kore stuff . Hope that your back gets better.

[@EnthusiastCarHangar]

I agree even I only have the non R. Wish the interior would be of a better quality.

[@harrydaniels9436]

great review,,,,always interesting,,,,,thanks

[@autofanaticcars]

Thanks for watching!

[@crisworkizer]

Dude the car is beautiful. F The carbon fiber body kit . Invest that money in a twin turbo.. Make it shit and get. Thats me brother.

[@xevious2501]

I tell you this much.. you will find yourself kicking yourself in the head if you decide to ever let that car go anytime soon. You have the last and greatest Mustang. one of the last great sportscars of the analog era. A manual transmission (which isnt actually going away completely as many think, but will rather be a very costly and special option for some car makes like porsche) In an age of all electric though the GT350 will likely not be as fast, it still will have all that of a by gone era. The sound, the direct connection between man and machine. a true drivers experience not washed away by flappy paddles. a car drizzling with character and personality. the smell of gasoline and all that comes with a machine powered by micro explosions. All which will be gone in the era of electric. in that age such a car will be worth big BIG dollars. so hold onto it. be if for yourself or for future sale. It is a collectors item. and one youl sorely regret letting go seeing them come off the auction block for millions in the not too distant future. I have a 96 SaleenS281speedster. Its very much all what the GT350 was but back int he 90's, its special and now these late model saleens are on the radar. But for so long, my friends were like' you should sell it like they sold their cars.. now their regretting it." a complete 180 of their tone some years ago. these cars are special. and the GT350's are historically special in all they represent and the changes thruout. Ford did it rite for once. The acknowledge true handling and performance from a european perspective. Gave up the 60's musclecar sloppy antics in favor for brilliant control and handling , telepathy steering and a power band that actually doesnt see the power drowning out in the 1 quarter of its engines rev range. Rather placing the power all the way at its 8400 rpm range. which much constant pulling till the very end.

[@badmpg]

Carbon package, and resale That is probably why you get an R

[@autofanaticcars]

yes the R seems to be holding values the best even though the standard 350 itself is am amazing value and it offers the opportunity to customize right out of the gate.

[@rhatala27]

Have you considered waiting for the new GT3?

[@gopherit4952]

I own a 2019 350r. The car is perfect with all the rattles and noises. It's just a roudy beast. I would never touch a thing about it. I bought mine new for 67k.

[@autofanaticcars]

had mine out all day enjoying the perfect cold fall day i freaking love this car so much, for me the key is i need to enjoy it when my back pain is non existent because if im hurting i can not enjoy it one bit.

[@belminzvekic4694]

What color?

[@carbon_twe1ve]

Do the Speedkore conversion 100%. If you go the Porsche route, get a manual 991.2 gt3

[@autofanaticcars]

i honestly like the size of the 997 cars better than the 991 and coming from the Shelby which is big I like to get into something a bit smaller, its a thought for now so il see what i decide by the end of this year but the Speedkore conversion would be SICK in blue carbon.

[@djaceyace8386]

As a 350 owner a lot of the owner forums say the PSC2 tires shouldn't be driven under 50F external temps. How dangerous is it exactly to take it out on a nice colder day?

[@autofanaticcars]

they can be very sketchy if you drive the car hard in a corner

[@cheyenneobregon184]

Nothing beats the speed kore switch. My god would that be nice! Rare no one uploads stuff like that it just happens behind closed doors and you should get a lund racing tune see the drivability and the difference of that 5.2 opened up!

[@mxtv1258]

Sell something and get the 488 GTB. I am thinking of selling my 1990 Corvette and buying that or a 911 Turbo S. If you were interested in a F8 or Turbo S you can order it should not be a problem. It will cost lots of cash, but if you are willing to wait you should be able to get one of them. In 2008 I tried to get a F430 and that was near impossible to get. I don’t know if any of theses will be a problem with your back.

[@autofanaticcars]

F12 is now on my radar with serious consideration for the new year.

[@mxtv1258]

@@autofanaticcars A 12 cylinder Ferrari would be awesome. I don’t know much else about the F12 but I am going to look into the F12 a little further.

[@gbarton800]

Appreciate your candid and real-world feedback on the R vs. Base GT 350. I’m in the market and was already leaning toward the base version. Your experiences have made the decision more certain. -- Couple/few questions... 1a. How would you describe the steering feel of your earlier base model vs. this later model R? 1b. How does the steering feel compare to the Euro sports cars? (I.e. Porsche which I consider a benchmark for steering feel and precision) - 2. What is fair market pricing for a new GT 350 base model? (Most current listings are at MSRP, while a few are discounted down to invoice) - Much appreciated and, after watching a few of your videos, now subscribed! - Oh and as for your buy/sell situation, I can completely understand the interest in experiencing other cars; I do the same. My 2 cents would be to get more seat time in the car(s) your considering before making the leap. Of course, cost of ownership, as you have detailed in other videos, can also be a big factor. From my experiences, it’s easy to get caught up in the performance data, the subjective writings or video testimonials ( :-) and even the brand history but at the end of the day, if you drive it and it doesn’t connect with you, then you won’t keep it long and may even have regrets about selling the previous car(s) to get into the new ‘flavor of the month’ ride. I will also say the Shelby GT350s are plentiful out there, so as long as you able to buy used, then you could always go back and pickup another one. -- TIA, and happy motoring! =====

[@Mopars4u]

Did you buy one?

[@iboostbuilt5694]

Good video! Made up my mind on which one to get!

[@autofanaticcars]

Glad I could help!

[@DiablitoSpeedz]

Beautiful car!! My dream car

[@English2Elvish]

Red Trim / Int changes happened for the 2019+ model year.

[@zorazr192]

Love that color, if I would buy one it would be that kona blue. If it's not that enjoyable to drive now after surgery you should sell it and get something that fits you better. You mentioned a Ferrari in a video. Have you thought about a C8 Z06 or a McLaren or set on a Ferrari only?

[@autofanaticcars]

I have a pending order for a C8 which has been a nightmare since they had strikes then the global shutdowns. the Z06 might be the ticket but who knows when that will even happen right now.I am planning to sell my C8 spot to a customer in the next month or so since that car is scheduled for March delivery. Im not a fan of the Mclaren cars but I do have strong interest for a Ferrari F12

[@whitelinefever8456]

Vote Speedkore and keep it!! Will be Great

[@TheAllAmericanDriver]

How much weight savings for the carbon conversion? For that money.. I’d probably.. widebody my R, wrap it, and send it to fathouse.

[@paulb2683]

Man the car is beautiful

[@tedkramer1208]

Would really love to see a side by side comparison of the new MTM PF22.2 and the version 2 of the Boss, using a 2200 PSI electric pressure washer. Which is going to give the best foam and I could really care less about how much product. I have seen some where the reviewer swears by the MTM, and some that swear by the BOSS, but no idea which version of the boss they had in their hand. I'm sure I'd be happy with either one but want to get the best cannon for my $100

[@wroman786]

Sell it before you throw 65k on the carbon body. You will never get that money back out of it and will devalue the car. Why wouldn’t you spend over 100k for the GT500 that will hold its value more the a GT350 with a 65k carbon body kit ? That will put you over the price of a GT500 track pack.

[@autofanaticcars]

i just would not spend the money for another Mustang over 100K i just rather spend a bit more for something like a Porsche or Ferrari. the carbon rebody is just an idea but i know its a bad decision resale wise

[@joshua.moreno.cre1]

Loved the vid! Thank you for sharing. Which GT would you recommend for a daily drive, if at all?

[@josephrodriguez3275]

@Auto Fanatic finally the 2019 production numbers are out looks like we have a pretty limited color combination 25 kona blue GT350R's of those only 16 have white stripes

[@autofanaticcars]

Wow thanks for posting this i had no idea but had a feeling it was rare for sure as these rarely come up for sale.

[@smc2892]

Question for you regarding lettering decal for a front splitter on a GT 350R. Went to order a decal but noticed on one site they said will not fit a GT 350R. Other sites stated nothing about a difference. Where did you get your decal. Is there really a difference? Thinking about silver for my R splitter. Any guidance would be appreciated!

[@bokudou]

Kona blue is a great color.

[@avocado9763]

ITS A Ford. Ford always cut corners. Get rid of it. Thank you for being so honest. You saved me a lot of money.

[@jamesmedina2062]

details of center console and front lip were fine, but otherwise, there was very little information on this car after one year of ownership

[@autofanaticcars]

you should follow my channel i have done so many videos regarding GT350 content of me daily driving the car for almost 3 years at this point there really isn't much to say that i have not dicsussed over and over so many times. the focus here was really on the carbon fiber wheels because the standard and R from 2018-2020 are so damn close in feel that I was emphasizing that is may not be worth the up charge for the R for many

[@jamesmedina2062]

@@autofanaticcars I got you. I will check those out.

[@UaeDelta]

Transform CF for half the price, agree on weekly videos. or real talk Get the Ferrari bro.

[@JerryCecco]

GT350R leave it alone for max future value

[@rhawk4321]

You ultimately said it,if you are gonna drive it mostly on the street it’s not worth the money over the non R.