Mustang GTD: Ford's European Worry

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【Summary】Ford has unveiled the new Mustang GTD, a high-performance variant designed to compete with European sports cars. The GTD is a road-legal version of Ford's Mustang GT3 race car and features a supercharged V8 engine targeting around 800bhp. It incorporates race-spec engineering, including active aerodynamics and suspension, some of which is not allowed in certain racing series. The GTD will be a limited-run model with a price starting at $300,000 in the US.

FutureCar Staff Aug 18, 2023 6:20 AM PT

Ford has revealed the new Mustang GTD, a high-performance variant designed to compete with European sports cars. Ford CEO, Jim Farley, expressed his desire to see Porsche, Aston Martin, and Mercedes "sweat" in response to the GTD. The GTD is a road-legal version of Ford's Mustang GT3 car and features race-spec engineering that is actually illegal in certain racing series.

The GTD name may be misleading for European readers, as it does not refer to a diesel engine. Instead, it is a motorsport-derived title that relates to the Mustang GT3 and GT4 models, as well as the IMSA GTD racing class. Under the hood, the GTD boasts a bespoke 5.2-litre supercharged V8 with a 7500rpm redline and an active titanium exhaust system. Ford is aiming for an impressive power figure of around 800bhp.

The power is transferred to the rear wheels through an eight-speed transaxle gearbox and a carbonfibre driveshaft to maintain a balanced weight distribution. The GTD also features 20-inch forged aluminium wheels (with magnesium options) and standard Brembo carbon ceramic brakes.

The GTD's active aerodynamics include hydraulically-controlled front flaps and an active rear wing, both of which have elements that would be illegal in certain racing series. The car also boasts active suspension with variable spring rates and ride height, allowing for different characteristics at the push of a button. The GTD's interior features Miko suede seat upholstery and 3D-printed titanium paddle shifters made from recycled F22 Raptors.

The Mustang GTD will be a limited-run model, with an application process similar to that of the Ford GT. Pricing for the GTD starts at $300,000 in the US.