Mustang GTD: Ford's Response to European Competition

Home > Industry Analysis > Content

【Summary】Ford has unveiled its new Mustang GTD, a road-legal high-performance variant designed to rival European sports cars. The GTD is based on the brand's 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 are not allowed in certain racing series. The GTD will be a limited-run model, priced from $300,000, and potential buyers will need to go through an application process.

FutureCar Staff Aug 22, 2023 9:55 AM PT

Mustang GTD: Ford's Response to European Competition

Ford has revealed 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 brands like Porsche, Aston Martin, and Mercedes. The GTD is a road-legal version of Ford's Mustang GT3 car and features race-spec engineering that is even illegal in some racing series.

Contrary to what the acronym might suggest in Europe, GTD in the context of the Mustang stands for motorsport-derived titles. It is linked to the Mustang GT3 and GT4, as well as the IMSA GTD racing class. Under the hood, the GTD is powered by a bespoke 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine with a dry sump system and an active titanium exhaust. Ford is aiming for around 800bhp.

The power is transmitted to the rear wheels through an eight-speed transaxle gearbox and a carbon fiber driveshaft, ensuring a 50/50 front/rear weight balance. The GTD also features 20-inch forged aluminum wheels, with the option of magnesium ones, and comes with Brembo carbon ceramic brakes as standard.

The GTD incorporates active aerodynamics, including hydraulically-controlled front flaps and an active rear wing. The suspension is also active, with variable spring rates and ride height adjustments. Greg Goodall, the chief engineer, mentioned that these features would not be allowed in racing. The GTD showcases Ford's state-of-the-art DSSV spool valve suspension technology, with a 40mm ride height reduction in Track mode.

Inside the GTD, Ford has used Miko suede in the seat upholstery and 3D-printed titanium paddle shifters recycled from retired F22 Raptors. However, getting your hands on a GTD won't be easy. Ford plans to produce the GTD in limited numbers and will use an application process similar to that of the Ford GT. The starting price for the GTD in the US is $300,000.