Ford's Mustang GTD: A Concern for Europeans

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【Summary】Ford has unveiled the new Mustang GTD, a high-performance variant designed to rival European sports cars. With a supercharged V8 engine targeting 800bhp, active aerodynamics, and race-spec engineering, Ford aims to make Porsche, Aston Martin, and Mercedes "sweat." The GTD is a road-legal version of the Mustang GT3 car, incorporating illegal racing technology. It features a bespoke 5.2-litre supercharged V8 engine, an eight-speed transaxle gearbox, active aerodynamics, and suspension.

FutureCar Staff Aug 25, 2023 5:12 PM PT

Ford's Mustang GTD: A Concern for Europeans

Ford has unveiled its new Mustang GTD, a high-performance variant designed to compete with European sports cars. Ford CEO Jim Farley stated that the GTD is the Mustang he has always dreamt of building and wants to challenge Porsche, Aston Martin, and Mercedes. The GTD is a road-legal version of Ford's Mustang GT3 car and incorporates engineering that is actually illegal in certain racing series.

The GTD name, although familiar to Europeans as a diesel designation, in this case, refers to the IMSA GTD racing class. Under the hood, the Mustang GTD features a bespoke 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine with a dry sump oil system, a 7500rpm redline, and an active titanium exhaust. Ford is aiming for around 800bhp power output. Power is sent to the rear wheels through an eight-speed transaxle gearbox and a carbon fiber driveshaft to maintain a 50/50 front/rear weight balance.

The GTD also boasts race-illegal engineering, including active aerodynamics with hydraulically-controlled front flaps and an active rear wing. The suspension is also active, featuring variable spring rates and ride height adjustment, not allowed in racing. The GTD showcases Ford's state-of-the-art DSSV spool valve suspension technology. The interior of the GTD includes Miko suede seat upholstery and 3D-printed titanium paddle shifters made from recycled F22 Raptors.

The Mustang GTD will be a limited-run model, and interested buyers will need to go through an application process similar to that of the Ford GT. The starting price for the GTD in the US is $300,000.