When we were approached about building a Ford Mustang 289 engine that would go into a Shelby GT350 clone, it didn't take long for us to say yes. Who doesn't love a Shelby GT350? The goal was to take a stock 289 c.i. 225-hp and transform it into a real 306-hp Shelby engine. The outward appearance had to mimic the original GT350, but we could use modern components like aluminum heads and a modern camshaft. The dyno graph shows the before and after results. It was a night and day difference! When the owner took it for a test drive, he was amazed at the difference. The engine power definitely overpowered the antiquated chassis and suspension of the Mustang, which is a common observation when it comes to older muscle cars with real power. All in all, this was a great outcome with a very happy customer.
Before: 183-hp @4500-rpm, 247 lb-ft @2,800-rpm
After: 306-hp @5600-rpm, 341 b-ft @3800-rpm
Type: Ford V8, 289
Bore: 4.04" hypereutetic pistons
Stroke: 3:, 302 crankshaft
Compression Ratio: 10:1
Cylinder Heads: TFS 5140 aluminum
Cams: Comp Cams 206/212-degree duration (@.050") and .460"/.474" lift (in/exh)
Induction: Aluminum intake manifold/Holley 4 barrel carb (750 cfm)
Exhaust: Shelby replica Tri-Y headers
Ignition: MSD AL6
