The Ford Shelby GT350 is powered by the legendary 5.2L “Voodoo” flat-plane crank V8 engine, one of the most exotic naturally aspirated performance engines ever produced by Ford. Known for its high-revving nature, race-inspired design, and aggressive exhaust note, the GT350 is a true driver-focused muscle car.
In this guide, we cover GT350 engine specs, horsepower, oil type, oil capacity, performance, reliability, problems, and price to give you a complete understanding of this iconic Mustang variant.
Ford Shelby GT350 Engine Overview
The GT350 uses Ford’s 5.2L Voodoo V8 engine, a unique naturally aspirated engine with a flat-plane crankshaft design. Unlike traditional V8s, it allows the engine to rev higher and respond faster, making it one of the most exciting Mustang engines ever built.
It was produced for the 2015–2020 Mustang Shelby GT350 and GT350R models, designed specifically for track performance and high-RPM driving.
GT350 Engine Specifications
GT350 Horsepower & Performance
- Horsepower: 526 HP @ 7,500 RPM
- Torque: 429 lb-ft
- 0–60 mph: ~3.9–4.2 seconds
- Top speed: 180+ mph (vehicle dependent)
GT350 Engine Oil Type
The GT350 requires high-performance synthetic oil due to its high-revving flat-plane crank design.
Recommended Oil: SAE 5W-50 Full Synthetic Oil (Ford Performance Specification)
GT350 Oil Capacity
- With oil filter: ~10 quarts (9.5 liters)
- Track-ready full fill required for high RPM protection
Oil Change Interval
- Normal driving: 5,000 miles
- Performance driving: 3,000–4,000 miles
- Track use: After each track session recommended
GT350 Price
- Used GT350: $45,000 – $75,000
- GT350R: $65,000 – $100,000+
- Original MSRP (new): ~$57,000 – $75,000
Common GT350 Engine Problems
Oil Consumption
Some early Voodoo engines are known for higher oil consumption under aggressive driving.
Engine Wear at High RPM
Flat-plane crank engines require strict warm-up and oil maintenance routines.
Cooling System Stress
Track driving can increase heat load on oil and cooling systems.
Is the GT350 Engine Reliable?
The GT350 engine is reliable when properly maintained, but it requires disciplined ownership. Frequent oil changes, proper warm-up, and avoiding cold high-RPM driving are essential for long engine life.
Vehicles Using GT350 Engine
- Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 (2015–2020)
- Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What oil does a GT350 use?
It uses SAE 5W-50 full synthetic oil designed for high-performance engines.
How much horsepower does the GT350 have?
It produces 526 horsepower from the 5.2L Voodoo V8 engine.
What is special about the GT350 engine?
It uses a flat-plane crankshaft allowing high RPM performance and a unique exhaust sound.
How long does a GT350 engine last?
With proper care, it can exceed 100,000–150,000+ miles, especially with regular oil maintenance.
Final Thoughts
The Ford Shelby GT350 is one of the most exciting naturally aspirated performance engines ever built. With its high-revving Voodoo V8 and race-inspired engineering, it remains a true enthusiast icon.
Quick Summary
- Engine: 5.2L Voodoo V8
- Horsepower: 526 HP
- Oil Type: 5W-50 Full Synthetic
- Oil Capacity: ~10 Quarts
- Redline: 8,250 RPM