The Shelby GT350 and GT500 are two of the most special Mustangs Ford has ever built, and they could not be more different in character. If you are cross-shopping these S550-era Shelbys, the choice comes down to what kind of driver you are. Here is the honest breakdown to help you decide. Ford and Shelby names are used here for identification only.
Quick answer: The GT350 is the naturally aspirated, high-revving, canyon-and-track scalpel built around the flat-plane-crank Voodoo 5.2. The GT500 is the supercharged, straight-line monster built around the Predator 5.2, brutally fast in a straight line. Choose the GT350 for the sound, revs, and handling, the GT500 for outright supercharged power.
The two engines
GT350 and the Voodoo
The GT350 uses the naturally aspirated flat-plane-crank Voodoo 5.2, an engine famous for its screaming high redline and an exotic, unmistakable sound. It is all about revs, response, and a naturally aspirated character that feels more like a European exotic than a muscle car. This engine defines the GT350 experience.
GT500 and the Predator
The GT500 uses the supercharged Predator 5.2, a brutally powerful engine that makes the GT500 one of the fastest Mustangs ever in a straight line. It trades the GT350's high-rpm naturally aspirated theater for immense, instant supercharged thrust. This is the drag-strip and roll-race weapon.
How they drive
The GT350 is a driver's car in the purest sense, happiest on a canyon road or a track where its revs, balance, and sound come alive. The GT500 is a devastating point-and-shoot machine that dispatches straights with violence, with the technology and brakes to back it up. One rewards you for wringing it out, the other rewards you for holding on.
Which should you buy
- Want sound, revs, and handling: the GT350 is the more engaging, naturally aspirated driver's car and a modern classic.
- Want maximum straight-line speed: the GT500's supercharged power is in another league for outright acceleration.
- Track and canyon focus: the GT350's balance and naturally aspirated response shine.
- Drag and roll racing: the GT500's instant thrust is the answer.
Modifying them
Both are specialized cars, so confirm parts list your exact model, since Shelby-specific hardware differs from a standard GT. The GT500's supercharged Predator responds to the boosted playbook, while the GT350's Voodoo rewards breathing and a naturally aspirated approach. Suspension, brakes, and wheels apply to both. Browse suspension, brakes, and wheels. For power philosophy, see our naturally aspirated guide and supercharger guide. Emissions and legality still apply to any power mods, so check your local laws.
Frequently asked questions
Is the GT350 or GT500 faster?
The GT500 is far faster in a straight line thanks to its supercharged Predator engine. The GT350 is about high-rpm naturally aspirated engagement and handling, not outright acceleration.
What engine does the GT350 have?
The naturally aspirated flat-plane-crank Voodoo 5.2, known for its high redline and exotic sound. It is the heart of the GT350 experience.
What engine does the GT500 have?
The supercharged Predator 5.2, one of the most powerful engines Ford has put in a Mustang, built for brutal straight-line speed.
Which is better for the track?
The GT350's balance, revs, and naturally aspirated response make it the more natural canyon and track car, though the GT500 has serious capability too.
Which should I buy?
Buy the GT350 for sound, revs, and handling, the GT500 for maximum supercharged straight-line speed. Both are special, so choose the character you want.
Shop Shelby parts
Everything filters to your exact car. Start with the 2015-2023 S550 Mustang, then browse suspension, brakes, and wheels. Confirm your exact model on every part, and follow your local emissions laws.
