Mustang GTD: Ford's European Concern

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【Summary】Ford has unveiled the new Mustang GTD, a high-performance variant designed to challenge European sports cars. The GTD is a road-legal version of Ford's Mustang GT3 race car, featuring a supercharged V8 engine targeting around 800bhp. It incorporates race-spec engineering, including active aerodynamics and suspension, which would be illegal in certain racing series. The interior boasts luxurious features such as Miko suede upholstery and 3D-printed titanium paddle shifters.

FutureCar Staff Aug 20, 2023 6:28 AM PT

Ford has unveiled its new Mustang GTD, a high-performance variant of the iconic Mustang designed to compete with European sports cars. Ford CEO Jim Farley expressed his ambition for the GTD to rival the likes of Porsche, Aston Martin, and Mercedes. The GTD is based on the brand's Mustang GT3 car, with the Ford performance team going above and beyond by incorporating engineering techniques that are illegal in certain racing series.

The GTD name may sound familiar to Europeans, but in this case, it is purely motorsport-derived. It pays homage to the Mustang GT3 and GT4, as well as the IMSA GTD racing class. Under the hood, the GTD features a bespoke 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine with a dry sump oil system, a 7500rpm redline, and an active titanium exhaust. While exact performance figures are not confirmed, Ford is aiming for around 800bhp.

Power is delivered to the rear wheels through an eight-speed transaxle gearbox and a carbon fiber driveshaft to maintain a balanced weight distribution. The GTD is equipped with 20-inch forged aluminum wheels (with magnesium wheels available) and standard Brembo carbon ceramic brakes.

One of the standout features of the GTD is its active aerodynamics, some of which would be illegal in certain racing series. The available aero package includes hydraulically-controlled front flaps for aerodynamic balance and coordination with the active rear wing. The GTD also boasts active suspension with variable spring rates and ride height, a feature not allowed in racing. The state-of-the-art DSSV spool valve suspension technology allows for a 40mm reduction in ride height in Track mode.

Inside the GTD, Ford has incorporated some innovative elements such as Miko suede seat upholstery and 3D-printed titanium paddle shifters made from recycled retired F22 Raptors. However, the 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.