Collector Grade, 628-mile Shelby GT350R 5.2L Flat-Plane V8 6-speed

With just 628 miles from new, this 2018 Ford Mustang GT350R is a standout example of Ford's most hardcore modern performance car. Finished in striking Lightning Blue Metallic and loaded with factory carbon fiber, serial number JR297 is a rare, collector-grade machine built to blur the line between street car and race car. Developed by Ford Performance with extensive input from motorsports programs and real-world track testing, the GT350R is more than a trim level…it's a turned-up celebration of high-revving V8 precision, balanced handling, and unfiltered feedback. Few cars of the modern era manage to deliver this level of engagement without a single trace of compromise, especially with a naturally aspirated engine and three pedals.

From the outside, the GT350R looks every bit as serious as it drives. The Lightning Blue paint is factory-applied and sharply contrasted by gloss black mirror caps and a carbon fiber rear spoiler that's also finished in gloss black. The front fascia incorporates a deep splitter and wide lower grille for maximum airflow and stability at speed. Wider front fenders, unique rocker extensions, and a clean rear diffuser all speak to the car's aero efficiency and track-focused mission. The gloss black 19-inch carbon fiber wheels, an industry first for a major OEM, save unsprung weight while adding visual punch, and they're wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 rubber sized 305/30ZR19 up front and 315/30ZR19 out back. Lightweight aluminum body panels, functional venting, and subtle GT350R badging complete a look that's aggressive without being over-styled.

The GT350R's main event is its engine, Ford's 5.2-liter “VooDoo” V8. Hand-built and flat-plane crank-equipped, it's one of the most unique and exotic powerplants ever dropped into an American muscle car. With 526 horsepower, 429 lb-ft of torque, and a screaming 8,250 RPM redline, it delivers power like nothing else in the naturally-aspirated Mustang lineage. All of that power is routed through a Tremec TR-3160 6-speed manual transmission and a 3.73 Torsen limited-slip differential. The chassis is equally serious, with MagneRide adaptive dampers, revised spring rates, lightweight front knuckles, a stiffer rear subframe, and specific alignment settings for razor-sharp response. Braking is handled by massive Brembo calipers clamping down on cross-drilled, two-piece rotors at all four corners.

Inside, the GT350R stays focused while still delivering key creature comforts. The Ebony interior features deeply bolstered Recaro bucket seats trimmed in Miko suede with red stitching, providing secure support for both street and track use. An Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel gives a high-feedback interface, while the absence of a rear seat reinforce the car's hardcore personality. Even so, Ford left just enough comfort tech to keep things usable on the street and purposeful on the track: dual-zone automatic climate control, a rear view camera, cruise control, SYNC3 infotainment, SiriusXM and Bluetooth capability, Track Apps, Launch Control, and Line Lock are all present. It's a well-balanced blend of race-readiness and real-world usability…engineered for drivers who actually plan to use the car as intended.

This GT350R checks all the right boxes: ultra-low mileage, one of the best modern performance engines ever built, and a factory spec that leaves nothing on the table. With analog thrills becoming rarer by the year, this is a modern icon destined to become even more desirable with time. Whether you're adding it to a high-end collection or aiming for apexes on your favorite road course, this Lightning Blue GT350R is the kind of car that still believes driving should be a full-sensory experience.

Key Highlights

* Collector Grade GT350R
* 628 miles
* 5.2 Liter Flat-Plane "VooDoo" V8
* Tremec 6-speed manual transmission
* Adaptive MagneRide suspension
* Limited-slip differential
* Rear seat delete
* Black carbon fiber rear wing
* 19" carbon fiber wheels
* Recaro bucket seats
* Power Brembo brakes
* Dual-zone climate control
* Sync 3 with navigation
* AM/FM/CD/SiriusXM/Bluetooth
* Track Apps
* Launch Control with Line Lock