Hot Wheels 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R

As always when the newest Mustang comes out Hot Wheels has to make a replica of each new model.  The latest is the first variant for the new 2015 Mustang, the Shelby GT350R, and just like when the Boss 302 in 2012 Hot Wheels goes for the top-line racing-spec Shelby Mustang.

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For years the Shelby Mustang has packed the most punch in the Mustang line, and almost always those engines were supercharged, but at a different change of pace the new Shelby Mustang downsizes to a GT350 badge and a naturally-aspirated engine: the Voodoo 5.2L DOHC V8 that has a flat crankshaft: which means that for each kick in the crankshaft that pushes the piston up, the next one is 180 degrees opposite of the previous one (whereas other vehicles have off-set crank kicks at certain angles).  The power output is 526 hp. and 429 Ib-ft. of torque through a six-speed manual only.  To add to that the R package is built with more aero features and lighter weight: No A/C, no stereo, no rear seat (though it is an option), spare tire, all carpeting and sound-deadening materials, a large front splitter and rear wing.  making the R 100 pounds lighter than the standard GT350.

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This Hot Wheels version finally gives some proper looks where the standard Mustang GT lacks.  The dark blue with black stripes gives this car a stealthy attitude that matches most of the new Ford performance line cars this year (Raptor, Focus ST, 2017 GT).  The front lower splitter with side wings that aid in aerodynamics combine with the wide mesh grille with Shelby badge to the left to give it the aggressive look, and I must say i'd prefer no headlight details to any headlight details here.  the hood is less aggressive than past Shelby's with no hood scoops and a slight bulge in the hood.  The sides are calm but still add flair with flared fenders and lower skirts to improve the look, while the roof, strangely enough, has black over a metal roof instead of the full-clear roof that is used in cars like the BMW M4.

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The rear has a large rear wing, detailed taillights with a blacked-out panel that has red Shelby and Hot Wheels logo's (and those taillights still look good), and an aggressive lower bumper that has center reverse lamp and large quad exhaust tips.  Yup, this Shelby definitely improves the look of the new Mustang.  The base has detailed drivetrain components, suspension mounts, and exhaust system, and all of it rides on gray 10-spoke steering wheel.  The interior has the typical Mustang setup like split dash design, 3-spoke steering wheel ahead of dual gauge pod, and two bucket seats though they lack the bolstering like the real Recaro's on the GT350R.  The rear seat is removed and unlike the Boss 302 Laguna Seca it does not have a rear brace support.  A nifty touch is the detailed deleted radio area that, with today's large MyTouch touch screen, means a gigantic hole in the dashboard; you can clearly see this represented in this car.

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I must say I like the new Shelby GT350R over the 2015 GT because it lacks the pinched body and flat-faced nose and gaping jaw rear end that the Hot Wheels GT has.  The Hot Wheels GT350R brings the attitude and style that goes along with the power of this car.

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