Ford Mustang

vs

Ford Mustang Shelby GT350

USA vs USA — 1971 vs 2015

Ford Mustang (1971)
Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 (2015)
Specifications
Mustang Mach 1Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8
Horsepower285 hp526 hp
Torque360 lb-ft429 lb-ft
Engine Size5,752 cc5,163 cc
0-60 mph6.5 sec4.3 sec
Top Speed122 mph174 mph
¼ Mile14.6 sec12.5 sec
Weight3,450 lbs3,648 lbs
Wheelbase2,794 mm2,720 mm
Length4,893 mm4,784 mm
Units Produced36,499
Original MSRP$3,268$59,440
Value (Excellent)$75,000$85,000
Collectibility7/108/10
Rarity5/105/10
The Verdict

The 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1 counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

The Ford Mustang lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1 with the 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8 reveals how Ford refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 526 hp compared to 285 hp, a 241-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ford Mustang uses a V8 OHV displacing 5,752 cc, while the Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 relies on a V8 DOHC 32V flat-plane crank with 5,163 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8 edges ahead at 4.3 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8 commands a significant premium over the 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.