I've read one or two interviews before with Ford that discussed Nurburgring lap times and why there aren't any for the various performance models over the years. I think it was Jamal Hameedi and he said that he didn't like posting Nurburgring lap times even though they test cars there. The reason why was because a lot of parameters aren't consistent between manufacturers so they are meaningless when it comes to comparing cars. Someone close to Ford seems to not have got the memo, though. According to a Horsepower Kings' source, the Shelby GT350R laid down a very impressive lap time of 7:32.19 at the Nurburgring. Not only that, the number also wasn't a hero lap, it was easily repeatable. Even more impressive, the standard GT350 (presumably with the Track Pack) was within a few seconds despite being on much more street friendly tires. That would put the GT350 neck and neck with the Camaro Z/28's 7:37.4 lap time, although it is worth mentioning that
I've been a huge fan of Michelin PSS tires and exclusively bought them for the Mustang over the last four years. So how did I end up here? This year, I was hugely interested in trying an "R-comp" tire. I had my eyes set on Bridgestone Potenza RE-71R's for two simple reasons: price and reputation. Although not a true "R-comp" tire on paper, it performs like one by the account of every single test and review I've read (down to wear rates...). They seem like they're easily the most affordable (from a big brand) R-comp tire and combine that with a reputation for having tons of grip, it was an easy top contender. I had my concerns, though. For one, I'm told and have read that they are an autox tire, not really designed for high speed, pressure, and temps associated with open track. For another, the Mustang is a heavy car (as far as track cars are concerned) being roughly 3,800 lb. (including driver), which will amplify the unwanted open track load