Pros And Cons: A Used Shelby GT350 Vs A New Ford Mustang Mach 1

2022-08-19 20:38:19 By : Ms. Joan Shaw

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YouTuber, RacerX, gives us the lowdown on why buying a second-hand GT350 might be a better buy over a brand-new Mustang.

After a 17-year hiatus, Ford revived the Mach 1 nameplate for the Mustang pony car. Interestingly, Ford introduced the Mach 1 as it ended production of the Shelby GT350. In a sense, the Mach 1 succeeds the Shelby GT350. Nevertheless, there are gearheads — such as YouTuber RacerX — who believe that a used Shelby GT350 could be a better buy than a new Mach 1.

In his YouTube video, RacerX compared a used Shelby GT350 and a new Mach 1 — simply because the Cobra-badged Mustang is already out of production, so it is impossible to buy a new one straight from the factory.

The one-year-old Mach 1, though, remains in production, and Ford is more than willing to sell one to potential customers.

RELATED: 10 Reasons Why We Prefer The New Ford Mustang Mach 1 Over The Shelby GT350

RacerX pointed out it is pretty easy to find on dealer lots used and well-optioned Shelby GT350s that have traveled for just a few thousand miles, which means they are quite new. Moreover, such GT350s are readily available for purchase for a similar price point as a new Mustang Mach 1, which could be as high as around $62,000.

In the video, one focus of the comparison between the GT350 and the Mach 1 is their engine. The Shelby GT350 employs the so-called “Voodoo” 5.2-liter V8 engine that delivers around 526 hp of max output and 429 lb-ft of torque, as sent to the wheels via a Tremec six-speed manual transmission. This mill is quite special as it employs a flat plane crankshaft, unlike the Mach 1’s "Coyote" V8 that Ford also shoehorns in some other vehicles.

RELATED: A Coyote-Powered Ford Mustang GT3 Is Coming In 2024

A new 2022 Mustang Mach 1, meanwhile, comes powered by Ford’s upgraded Coyote third-gen 5-liter V8 engine. This mill delivers 470 hp of max output, or 10 hp less than its 2021 iteration. It’s no wonder why the GT350, despite being heavier, can beat the Mach 1 on the sprint. As standard, a Tremec six-speed manual transmission does the power distribution, although a 10-speed automatic gearbox is also available.

RacerX, however, noted that the Voodoo engine is quite difficult to boost. The Coyote, meanwhile, is a darling for boost buffs. Moreover, some GT350 owners have complained about a few engine issues, such as those related to bearings and oil filters.

Nevertheless, choosing between a used GT350 and a new Mach 1 is subjective. But it’s always good to know the pros and cons before making a purchase decision.

Julybien Atadero writes from the island of Cebu covering various automotive topics including new sports cars, classic muscles, pickup trucks and SUVs. While I like peace and quiet, I love playing with my kid. When I have nothing else to do, I watch documentaries and animations.