Mustang GTD: Ford's European Concern

author: FutureCar Staff    

Ford has unveiled the new Mustang GTD, a high-performance variant designed to compete with European sports cars. Ford CEO Jim Farley expressed his ambition for the GTD to outperform Porsche, Aston Martin, and Mercedes. The GTD is a road-legal version of Ford's Mustang GT3 car, incorporating engineering that is actually illegal in certain racing series.

Contrary to what the name might suggest to Europeans, GTD does not stand for diesel. Instead, it references the Mustang GT3 and GT4 as well as the IMSA GTD racing class. Powering the GTD is a bespoke 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine with a 7500rpm redline and an active titanium exhaust system. Ford is targeting around 800bhp for the GTD.

The GTD channels its power to the rear wheels through an eight-speed transaxle gearbox and a carbon fiber driveshaft. It features 20-inch forged aluminum wheels and standard Brembo carbon ceramic brakes. The GTD also boasts active aerodynamics, including hydraulically-controlled front flaps and an active rear wing, which incorporate technologies that are not allowed in certain racing series.

Additionally, the GTD utilizes active suspension with variable spring rates and ride height, a feature that is also not permitted in racing. The car's interior incorporates Miko suede in the seat upholstery and 3D-printed titanium paddle shifters recycled from retired F22 Raptors. However, 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. Prices for the GTD start at $300,000 in the US.

FutureCar Staff