Differences between model year R’s?

[BrakeFade]

I’ve searched but couldn’t find anything definitive on changes between R models throughout the 15-20 run (17 oil filter, 500 block and some suspension changes in 19/20). I’m looking at a low mileage 16 R and was curious as to all the R specific changes during the production run. Any help is appreciated!

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[svttim]

I believe if my memory severs me right (and it may not) that the cam hardware was designed to take a bit more of a beating. Forde anticipated more track use with the R. I also believe that was the extent of the differences, Someone with a better memory can chime in. All 19/20 GT350s received the same engine.

 

[pilotgore]

I’ve searched but couldn’t find anything definitive on changes between R models throughout the 15-20 run (17 oil filter, 500 block and some suspension changes in 19/20). I’m looking at a low mileage 16 R and was curious as to all the R specific changes during the production run. Any help is appreciated!

You've basically got it. There weren't a ton of changes made. The 2020R got new beefier front knuckles which was supposed to help with tram-lining.

 

[BrakeFade]

Thanks everyone!
I figured there wouldn’t be much since I couldn’t find a whole helluva lot.

 

[svttim]

There were more changes to the Gen 2 engine besides the block. Details are sketchy but there were improvements in the heads for cooling. No performance upgrades. 19 did not get the knuckle change, only 20

 

[stanglife]

Sometime in 18, the design on the R wheels was changed slightly. Apparently some cracked the lug flange but I''ve personally never heard of anyone who reported that...even on this forum where people complain about eveything.

spin on oil filter for 16 - cartridge style for other years

20s have slightly different front core support - only reason really is so they could use the same part for the GT500 = save money.

Interior differences... I like the stitching look and soft touch stuff in the 2020 but I preferred the seats in my 16R without the red inserts.

There will be running changes that we are not aware of yet.

 

[TonyNJ]

I just picked up a high mileage 16R. Been pouring over it the past few days. Not sure if you're looking for engine and performance changes or just the nuanced ones. I know that after 18, you couldn't get a dash with the 3 vents like this one, and a steering wheel with the radio controls deleted. Also, the center console got the red stitching in 2019 and 2020. 15 to 18 the console was all black plastic. I added the one you see the the photo.

Side note, curiosity got the best of me today...

 

[pilotgore]

I just picked up a high mileage 16R. Been pouring over it the past few days. Not sure if you're looking for engine and performance changes or just the nuanced ones. I know that after 18, you couldn't get a dash with the 3 vents like this one, and a steering wheel with the radio controls deleted.

Side note, curiosity got the best of me today...

Thats cool. I never knew what was behind the panel!

My understanding is, Ford had to put the radio back in due to the may 2018 reverse camera mandate in the US.

 

[TonyNJ]

Thats cool. I never knew what was behind the panel!

My understanding is, Ford had to put the radio back in due to the may 2018 reverse camera mandate in the US.

You are correct. That's why there are so few 2018 Base Rs. (21)

 

[Hobdul]

20s have slightly different front core support - only reason really is so they could use the same part for the GT500 = save money.

Do the 2020 Rs have the screw point for the front tow hook, since they share the front core with the GT500? I know they don't have GT500's pop-off access panel on front bumper to allow for screw-in tow hook, but I seem to recall hearing that the screw point is there under the plastic bumper.

I still marvel that Ford made such an incredible track car and made no provision for attaching tow hooks without removing the bumpers, whereas most other cars just have the little pop-off panel. So dumb.

 

[BrakeFade]

I just picked up a high mileage 16R. Been pouring over it the past few days. Not sure if you're looking for engine and performance changes or just the nuanced ones. I know that after 18, you couldn't get a dash with the 3 vents like this one, and a steering wheel with the radio controls deleted. Also, the center console got the red stitching in 2019 and 2020. 15 to 18 the console was all black plastic. I added the one you see the the photo.

Side note, curiosity got the best of me today...

Thanks for the info!
I had no idea the air vent layout was different. Can you get an aftermarket CF dash for the old style vent? I also didn’t know some Rs could be bought without a radio?

 

[svttim]

Sometime in 18, the design on the R wheels was changed slightly. Apparently some cracked the lug flange but I''ve personally never heard of anyone who reported that...even on this forum where people complain about eveything.

spin on oil filter for 16 - cartridge style for other years

20s have slightly different front core support - only reason really is so they could use the same part for the GT500 = save money.

Interior differences... I like the stitching look and soft touch stuff in the 2020 but I preferred the seats in my 16R without the red inserts.

There will be running changes that we are not aware of yet.

The core supports changed in 19

 

[ecoboost321]

I just picked up a high mileage 16R. Been pouring over it the past few days. Not sure if you're looking for engine and performance changes or just the nuanced ones. I know that after 18, you couldn't get a dash with the 3 vents like this one, and a steering wheel with the radio controls deleted. Also, the center console got the red stitching in 2019 and 2020. 15 to 18 the console was all black plastic. I added the one you see the the photo.

Side note, curiosity got the best of me today...

I own a high mileage (20,000+) as well, but mine has technology package. I always wondered what was behind that panel in the Base model R cars. Congrats and enjoy !

 

[ecoboost321]

I believe Bang and Olufsen sound system was added in 2019 as well.

 

[BrakeFade]

I believe Bang and Olufsen sound system was added in 2019 as well.

What was it before 19?

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