Automotive Trends

Not content to have the Chevrolet Camaro nipping at its heals with such headline models as the ZL1 and Z/28, Ford has added a track package to the Mustang portfolio dubbed the Shelby GT350R. Ford claims the GT350R is the most track-capable production Mustang ever and yet is fully road-legal. Some of the enhancements above and beyond the standard Shelby GT350 include the industry’s first ever carbon fiber wheels, Ford’s first production V8 with a flat-plane crankshaft, and a specially tuned suspension. The deck-lid features a wild rear wing constructed of carbon fiber as well as a revised front splitter to maximize down force. The GT350R manages to be the most powerful naturally aspirated production Ford engine in history with more than 500 fire breathing horses and north of 400 lb-ft of twist. If this combination of power, performance and style isn’t enough for you, just wait. Ford Performance is promising at least 11 more tantalizing vehicles by 2020.

Not Your Typical Drop-Top Rental Car

     A trip to Key West, Florida will confirm it. There is a market out there for flashy convertibles with high style and little need for performance. The number of rental-grade pony car convertibles in the southernmost point of Florida is nearly enough to make one decide to rent a white Camry sedan just to be different. Certainly Ford and Chevy don’t expect normal customers to buy a base convertible. Or do they? Read more…