Also should look at 2016's. Can get low mileage ones (under 10k miles) for about $43k. The oil consumption issue is overblown. The actual numbers are low. Also, the engine replacement numbers are inflated becausec Ford has decided to replace the engines with issues instead of repairing them. If...
My BMW had an E46 M3 engine (modified) the last 4 seasons that I club raced it. Your comments about an E46 M3 being a better car is laughable, as are your other copmparisons. The 350 is a great handling car (the struts/shocks are unreal), with unreal breaks, and an engine that rocks to 8,250 rpm's.
If you like open track/cars that stop and turn, this is the best Mustang ever made. Had my Terminator for 14 years and loved it. The 350 rocks and is a big improvement.
The NT05 is the stickiest street tire (200 wear rating) that I'm aware of. Naturally, "R" compound tires are stickier, but don't last as long or work as well in the rain.
Upgrading the rears is a waste of money. Put Stop Tech 13" brakes up front with steel-braided lines front/rear and you're good to go. There are lots of good pads to choose from. For open track, Porterfield R4's are killer!!!!
Leave the rear brakes stock with the exception of braided brake lines. I put Stop Tech 13" front brakes on my '04 with Porterfield R4 pads and braided lines. 13" front brakes fit on the Terminator.
I've got a built '04 (ported Eaton, 2.9 upper pulley and auxiliary idler, Manley pistons-overbore, 9.01 cr, etc.) with a Lethal return fuel system that did 485 rwhp, 447 tq on a Dynojet. The stock fuel pressure sensor was retained.
I'm surprised the fuel pressure sensor blew on a return system! I moved last year from sea level to 6,000 feet after a rebuild of my engine that increased boost/power. As a result of the above, I started blowing fuel pressure sensors. To eliminate the problem, I had a return fuel system...