Why the 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R Costs More Than a GT500
For around the same money, which Shelby would you pick?
The 2020 Shelby GT500 is Ford‘s most powerful street-legal car ever, making an impressive 760 hp. The GT350R is still a potent player, but it only boasts 526 hp from its V-8. So more power means a higher price tag, right? Well, that’s actually not the case. While the GT500 starts at $73,995, Ford says the 2020 GT350R’s starting price is $535 higher at $74,530. Both prices include a destination fee and gas guzzler tax.
So how can this be? We asked Ford to explain the price difference. “The Shelby GT350R is a very limited-production model, truly the ultimate Mustang for driving purists who want an ever more track-capable car,” said Jiyan Cadiz, Ford’s North American Icon Communications and Media Relations manager, in an email.
As we noted in an earlier story, the two cars have very different missions. Much of their personality differences come down to their engines, which are distinct 5.2-liter V-8s. The GT350 and its R sibling get a lightweight flat-plane-crank V-8 that enables a sky-high redline of 8,200 rpm, making it an ideal track weapon. Meanwhile, the GT500’s supercharged cross-plane V-8 is an expert at providing low-end torque. Cadiz puts it this way: “Shelby GT500 is more about being the pinnacle of Mustang performance and technology for the customer who wants it all. Similar to the jump from GT350 to GT350R, the Carbon Fiber Track Pack makes GT500 even more track-capable.”
Jeep Wrangler JL vs. JK: What’s the Difference Between New and Old
Why the New Jeep Wrangler JL is better than your JK
No other vehicle is as synonymous with off-roading as the Jeep Wrangler. The latest generation arrived in 2018 and has impressed everyone who has driven it. But should you upgrade from the already capable Jeep Wrangler JK? This video gives you nine reasons why you should get a Jeep Wrangler JL over a JK.
9) Interior, Dash & Doors
The interior alone is a big step up in the Jeep Wrangler JL vs. JK. You get more space in the JL thanks to the retro-inspired flat dash and an eye-catching design, a key difference from the JK. The waterproof interior makes cleaning the Jeep Wrangler JL’s interior as simple as pulling some drain plugs and aiming the hose.
Comparing the Jeep Wrangler JL vs. JK in the interior department shows big improvements. Like most new Jeep models, the Jeep Wrangler JL gets FCA’s intuitive UConnect multimedia system with either a 5.0-, 7.0-, or 8.4-inch touchscreen depending on the trim level. In comparison, the Wrangler JK utilizes an older infotainment system that’s at least a decade old and has no smartphone integration.
8) High-Strength, High Clearance Bumpers
Compared to the JK Wrangler, the JL Wrangler features more extensive use of high-strength steel to cut weight and its wheelbase has been stretched for a more spacious interior. You’ve also got redesigned bumpers that are more durable and that enable superior departure angles.
7) Bigger Flares
The Wrangler JL has bigger flares than the outgoing Wrangler JK, which means you can equip it with tires up to 35 inches in diameter.
6) True 33-Inch Tires
One of the key differences comparing the Jeep Wrangler JL vs. JK are the tires. The Wrangler JL Rubicon comes from the factory with 33-inch tires, giving it better off-road credentials.
5) Reduced Weight
The use of aluminum in the doors, hood, and fenders make the JL Wrangler lighter than its predecessor. Lighter doors and hard top panels mean they’re easier to take off, and the soft top slides on or off with minimal fuss since the zippers from the JK Wrangler are now gone.
4) Fully Fold-able Windshield
There’s also an easy-to-fold windshield to let nature in when removing the roof and doors aren’t enough. When you compare the Jeep Wrangler JL vs. JK, there’s more ways to drive with the wind in your hair thanks to that folding windshield.
3) Great Grille
Like past Jeep Wranglers, the JL keeps the exterior evolutionary and includes a grille that pays homage to the CJ generation produced from 1944 to the late 1980’s.
2) Upgraded Axles
Stronger Dana 44 axles mean the Jeep Wrangler JL can take more abuse off the beaten path.
1) Turbo Power
The available turbocharged 2.0-liter engine gives the Jeep Wrangler JL a meatier torque band versus the Wrangler JK and its 3.6-liter V-6. When you put the Jeep Wrangler JL vs. JK, the former offers superior power-trains and will also be available in diesel and plug-hybrid flavors, further creating more difference between the two generations.
The significant improvements made to the Wrangler JL were enough to earn it MotorTrend’s 2019 SUV of the Year award. Between the improved on-road comfort, new tech features, and superb off-road credentials, the Wrangler JL is a clear upgrade over the Wrangler JK.
Jeep Wrangler JL Vs. JK 9 Differences:
- Interior, Dash & Doors
- High-Strength, High Clearance Bumpers
- Bigger Flares
- True 33-inch Tires
- Reduced Weight
- Fully Fold-able Windshield
- Great Grille
- Upgraded Axles
- Turbo Power
Future Cars! 2020 and Beyond
Hot cars on the way from Chevrolet, BMW, Alfa Romeo, and more
And maybe you’ve heard, but our automotive future is electrified. From Fiat to Audi, fully electric cars you might actually want to drive will be here soon (if a Model 3 and the other existing options aren’t your style).
So keep reading for more on future cars headed to a dealership near you.
Because it’s so much fun to look to the future of our automotive world, we’re revisiting this feature from May 2019. Enjoy!
More On Future Cars:
- Future SUVs! 2020 and Beyond
WHAT’S NOW
Chevrolet Corvette
What’s New: The long-awaited mid-engine Corvette is finally here. After years of rumors, spy shots, leaks, and speculation, Chevrolet finally peeled off the camo in July. A 495-hp 6.2-liter V-8 drives the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic trans-axle. Multiple power outputs are expected courtesy of various displacements, with both 4.2-liter and 5.5-liter versions to be fitted (we’ll have to wait and see if this happens down the line). An all-new electrical architecture will feature top-of-the-line sensors and computers for performance and handling enhancement, but you’ll no doubt be able to turn them all off, too. Inside, Chevrolet has gone upscale with a classy, driver-focused interior featuring premium materials and a digital instrument cluster. Although base-model Corvettes start at about $60,000, higher-performance models will quickly shoot up in price to cover both the development cost and the improvements in technology, performance, and comfort. But they should still remain relatively attainable.
What’s Not: Base cars are expected to employ Chevrolet’s tried-and-true 6.2-liter push-rod V-8. Mid-range cars might also employ the supercharged push-rod engine. We predict Chevrolet will continue to offer a removable targa roof that will store in the cargo area.
How Much: $60,000-$120,000 (est)
