By using this site, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Accept
The Auto Magazine
  • Home
  • Auto Shows
    Auto ShowsShow More
    IAA MOBILITY 2025 Announces Powerful Lineup of Partners and Sponsors
    June 26, 2025
    BMW and Alvaro Barrington celebrate hydrogen mobility at Art Basel in Basel 2025
    June 18, 2025
    MHB DEALER EXPO 2025 – A Premier Automotive Networking Experience
    June 17, 2025
    Entries Open for The Cape 1000 – South Africa’s Most Beautiful Drive Returns for 2026
    June 10, 2025
    Ulterio Motiv Toyota Land Cruiser 6×6 and 6×4 to invade Land Cruiser Festival
    June 3, 2025
  • Bikes
    BikesShow More
    Desmo450 MX: Production of the first Ducati Motocross bike begins
    May 28, 2025
    25YM Honda NC750X
    May 13, 2025
    BMW Motorrad presents the new BMW R 1300 RS
    May 2, 2025
    BMW Motorrad presents the new BMW R 1300 RT
    April 30, 2025
    Honda NC750X Named Winner in 2025 Red Dot Design Award
    April 10, 2025
  • News
    NewsShow More
    Bugatti Veyron: the legacy behind a legendary name
    June 26, 2025
    Kia President and CEO Ho Sung Song honored at 2025 Autocar Awards
    June 26, 2025
    BMW Group relies on local partners at the Plant Irlbach-Strasskirchen
    June 26, 2025
    François Leboine named ‘Design Hero’ in 2025 Autocar Awards
    June 26, 2025
    Antonio Filosa Announces New Stellantis Leadership Team on First Day as CEO
    June 26, 2025
  • Concepts
    ConceptsShow More
    Mercedes-AMG presents the CONCEPT AMG GT XX
    June 25, 2025
    TOYOTA GAZOO Racing unveils liquid hydrogen-fueled “GR LH2 Racing Concept” at Le Mans
    June 11, 2025
    FIAT unveils the manifesto Grande Panda 4×4
    May 20, 2025
    Renault 4 Savane 4×4 Concept makes its global debut at Roland-Garros 2025
    May 16, 2025
    Hyundai Motor and Plus Unveil Concept for Autonomous Hydrogen Freight Ecosystem at ACT Expo 202
    May 2, 2025
  • Interviews
    InterviewsShow More
    24-hour race at Le Mans, the Nürburgring and Spa – triple marathon for Mercedes-AMG Motorsport
    June 10, 2025
    Kosmas “Dudie” Mamaloukos – The Formidable Racing Talent
    May 15, 2025
    Hi-Range Safari City
    Hi-Range Safari City – The Premier outfitter for 4×4 customization
    May 15, 2025
    BEHIND THE SCENES: ARCHIE RUTHERFORD ON WHAT IT TAKES TO BRING THE W2RC TO SOUTH AFRICA
    May 9, 2025
    Europe and China’s automotive future in a shifting global order
    May 5, 2025
  • EVs
    EVsShow More
    Polestar 4 wins the 2025 Mille Miglia Green
    June 27, 2025
    IONIQ 5 N Earns Coveted ‘Five-Star Car’ Accolade at 2025 Autocar Awards
    June 26, 2025
    Polestar 3 OTA update introduces new Abbey Road Studios Mode exclusively for Bowers & Wilkins audio system
    June 18, 2025
    No Compromise Ford Ranger PHEV Brings Electric Power to Europe’s Best-Selling Pickup
    June 18, 2025
    Scania launches MCS rapid charging solution at EVS38
    June 18, 2025
  • Motosport
    MotosportShow More
    Maserati MCXtrema revives MC12 legend at CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa
    June 26, 2025
    Audi R8 LMS clinches first titles of the 2025 season
    June 26, 2025
    Eleven Porsche tackle the world’s largest GT3 event in Spa
    June 26, 2025
    Successful 24h Nürburgring for the VW Golf GTI
    June 26, 2025
    TGRSA KICKS OFF 2025 OFF-CIRCUIT SEASON WITH DOUBLE HEADER IN SARRC AND NRC
    June 26, 2025
  • Trucks & Buses
    Trucks & BusesShow More
    Tata Motors strengthens presence in Qatar with the launch of all-new LPO 1622 bus
    June 26, 2025
    Scania launches MCS rapid charging solution at EVS38
    June 18, 2025
    Daimler Truck and Volvo Group launch Coretura
    June 17, 2025
    Volvo Trucks launches upgraded Volvo Dynamic Steering system to increase road safety
    June 17, 2025
    MAN starts series production of electric trucks
    June 17, 2025
  • Reviews
    ReviewsShow More
    Introducing the Land Cruiser Hybrid 48V: a new powertrain for Toyota’s legendary SUV
    June 23, 2025
    THE NEW HAVAL H6 SUV IS HERE, AND IT’S BUILT FOR BIG MOMENTS!
    June 18, 2025
    THE NEW PEUGEOT E-208 GTi MORE PLEASURE. MORE GTi THAN EVER!
    June 17, 2025
    New BMW XM options: maximum exclusivity and breathtaking performance.
    June 12, 2025
    The Audi Q5 e-hybrid: all-rounder with great electric range
    June 11, 2025
  • Tech
    TechShow More
    Gaming fun on the go: Audi integrates AirConsole
    June 26, 2025
    New Kia App provides European drivers with a unified digital experience
    June 17, 2025
    Abbey Road Studios Mode makes global debut in Volvo EX90
    June 17, 2025
    Audi develops the picking process of the future
    June 2, 2025
    Volvo EX90 LiDAR and smartphone cameras: What you need to know
    June 2, 2025
Hot News
Polestar 4 wins the 2025 Mille Miglia Green
Bugatti Veyron: the legacy behind a legendary name
Tata Motors strengthens presence in Qatar with the launch of all-new LPO 1622 bus
Kia President and CEO Ho Sung Song honored at 2025 Autocar Awards
Gaming fun on the go: Audi integrates AirConsole
Latest News

JLR RAMPS UP RECRUITMENT WITH 250 NEW ELECTRIFICATION JOBS

BMW Group on track for growth in 2025

Motosport

SUSPENSE IN SIGHT AT MAGNY-COURS

Latest News

uLuntu Lwethu docuseries spotlights the people behind Mercedes-Benz

Font ResizerAa
The Auto MagazineThe Auto Magazine
  • Home
  • Auto Shows
  • Bikes
  • News
  • Concepts
  • Interviews
  • EVs
  • Motosport
  • Trucks & Buses
  • Reviews
  • Tech
Search
  • Home
  • Auto Shows
  • Bikes
  • News
  • Concepts
  • Interviews
  • EVs
  • Motosport
  • Trucks & Buses
  • Reviews
  • Tech
Follow US
Crafted by Intellegere Media. © 2024 The Auto Magazine. All rights reserved.
Reviews

NEW FORD STREET-LEGAL PERFORMANCE CAR: MUSTANG GTD

Itumeleng Garebatshabe
Last updated: August 18, 2023 12:09
By Itumeleng Garebatshabe
907 Views
14 Min Read
Share
14 Min Read
SHARE
  • Mustang® GTD is the most audacious and advanced Mustang ever, a limited-edition, street legal performance car designed in parallel with Mustang GT3 race car and ready to take on the world’s best performance cars 
  • Engineered to go like hell: Extensive use of carbon fiber in the body; first-of-its-kind suspension that adjusts spring rate and ride height settings for track or street conditions; active aerodynamics; supercharged V8 with unique dry sump oil system; 8-speed dual-clutch rear transaxle and carbon fiber driveshaft for near ideal weight balance; magnesium wheels; available titanium exhaust; and carbon ceramic brakes combine to create an agile, ultra-high-performance Mustang   
  • Targeting more than 800 horsepower* and a sub-7-minute Nürburgring time, the technology in Mustang GTD goes beyond what’s allowed in racing.  

Deep inside a metal storage garage hidden behind a wind tunnel building in Allen Park, Mich., a handful of team members gathered in 2021 for a new, after-hours mission that on paper felt like an impossible dream: design a Mustang to take on the best of European sports cars. 

The result is a limited-edition, ultra high-performance street legal performance car with the soul of a Mustang.   

- Advertisement -
Ad image

Debuting today is the all-new 2025 Ford Mustang® GTD, a technological tour de force inspired by the Mustang GT3 slated to race in Le Mans next year. Unapologetic in its heritage, unbelievable in its performance, its sculpted mostly carbon fiber wide body and looming rear wing says everything in just a glance. This is like no Mustang ever.   

“Mustang GTD shatters every preconceived notion of a supercar,” said Jim Farley, Ford president and CEO. “This is a new approach for us. We didn’t engineer a road car for the track, we created a race car for the road. Mustang GTD takes racing technology from our Mustang GT3 race car, wraps it in a carbon fiber Mustang body and unleashes it for the street.”    

Every precision part of Mustang GTD is purposefully designed. Every form is driven by function. It is designed to do one thing: Go faster around a track with more technology than the race cars it’s based on. Mustang GTD was developed by many of the same people behind Ford’s Mustang race cars and the Le Mans-winning GT. It’s built to be the quickest roadgoing Mustang ever. 

Mustang GTD is planted to the tarmac by astounding downforce from available active aerodynamics and enormous grip from huge tires mounted to an advanced dual ride height short-long arm front and multi-link rear suspension. It stops with authority thanks to carbon ceramic brakes, includes a rear-mounted 8-speed dual-clutch transaxle and lightweight carbon fiber driveshaft for near 50/50 weight distribution. And everything is driven with wicked speed by a symphonic supercharged 5.2-liter V8 targeting and estimated 800 horsepower.   

“We obsessed about the racing technology under its skin. What makes it go is even more compelling than what you can see when it passes you by,” said Mark Rushbrook global director of Ford Performance Motorsports. “When you look at the engineering, the aerodynamics, how the powertrain works, the Mustang GTD is a rocketship for the road.” 

Keeping the Le Mans-winning legacy going    

The Mustang GTD was born from the concept of the Mustang GT3 race car returning to Le Mans next year and will be the pinnacle of the Mustang family that now includes both street-legal and track-only race cars. This family includes the recently revealed Mustang GT4, the Mustang GT3, as well as the upcoming Mustang Dark Horse R spec racer and more. All will carry on the standing of Mustang as Ford’s most raced and most successful nameplate and will prowl streets and tracks all around the globe. The GTD name for this newest Mustang refers to the IMSA “GTD” racing class for cars that are built to FIA GT3 technical regulations. 

“This is our company, we’re throwing down the gauntlet and saying, ‘Come and get it,’” said Farley. “We’re comfortable putting everybody else on notice. I’ll take track time in a Mustang GTD against any other auto boss in their best road car.” 

Designed and engineered as a collaboration between Ford and Multimatic**, which developed the Mustang GT3, Mustang GT4, and Le Mans-winning Ford GT, the Mustang GTD represents the culmination of decades of engineering advancement borne from continuous learning through racing. Crafted with intent and precision, it’s destined to become an iconic part of Mustang and Ford history. 

“Mustang GTD represents the very best of Ford Motor Company and what our team needs to do every day,” said Farley. “This is what happens when we take what we’re good at and push the boundaries to see where the bubble stops. It represents the essence of the transformation we’re going through at Ford, from software to special edition cars.” 

Chiseled to Exploit the Air    

The Mustang GTD design is pure purpose. Every line drives aerodynamic performance at track speed, from the front splitter, vented hood and fenders to the available C-pillar mounted hydraulically controlled active rear wing. 

Mustang GTD takes advantage of the extensive use of carbon fiber body panels to reduce weight, lower center of gravity and improve responsiveness. The fenders, hood, cover that replaces the trunk lid, door sills, front splitter, rear diffuser and roof are all carbon fiber with optional carbon fiber front and rear fascias.    

An available aero package that includes a comprehensive underbody aerodynamic tray is also executed in carbon fiber and includes features pioneered in motorsports racing, as well as some technology that would be illegal in racing, such as hydraulically controlled front flaps to manage airflow for aerodynamic balance in coordination with the active rear wing. 

Where there once was a trunk is now the semi-active suspension, a hydraulic control system, and a transaxle cooling system that uses a race-inspired cover that replaces the trunk lid and includes two air scoops to funnel air off the back glass into the area and through the heat exchangers. 

“Our design team worked in conjunction with the Mustang GT3 design team and the aero team, sharing solutions between race car and road car, and vice versa,” said Anthony Colard, Ford Performance design manager, “This is an aerodynamics-driven design.” 

The combination of purposefully designed aerodynamic features will result in massive downforce balanced across both front and rear axles and will in turn drive corner speeds up, produce consistent control and incredible lap times at some of the world’s most hellish tracks.   

Extreme Performance and Technology    

“The hardware has been carefully selected and developed to enable blistering lap time performance,” said Greg Goodall, Ford chief program engineer, “The target for this project was clear – go much, much faster than we’ve ever gone before with a targeted sub-7-minute Nürburgring time. This makes it the fastest roadgoing Mustang ever from Ford.”  

Mustang GTD utilizes a purpose-developed supercharged 5.2-liter V8 with dual air inlets and the first dry-sump engine oil system fitted to a roadgoing Mustang to help keep the engine lubricated during sustained and demanding cornering. The engine’s more than 7,500 rpm redline generates exceptional notes through the available titanium active valve exhaust system. It’s the highest horsepower street-legal Mustang ever developed by Ford.   

All of that power is sent from the engine to the rear wheels through a carbon fiber driveshaft connected to an 8-speed rear transaxle for near 50/50 weight distribution between the front and rear. Lap time drive simulations and powertrain dyno testing led to the selection of the powertrain and transaxle architecture to put power to the ground.  

The Mustang GTD’s exceptional performance is further enhanced by a state-of-the-art semi-active suspension that can vary both spring rates and ride height. The adaptive spool valve damper technology with hydraulically actuated dual spring rate and height suspension provides two unique states which enhance on-road and on-track performance independently. The suspension settings allows for nearly 40 mm lower ride height in Track Mode and overall has a nearly four inches wider track than the Mustang GT. 

A short-long arm front suspension provides enhanced lateral stiffness and improved kinematics especially in high-G cornering. The rear suspension features an integral link pushrod and rocker arm architecture where the inboard Adaptive Spool Valve shock absorbers and coil over springs are arranged in a horizontal cross pattern and integrated with a strong, stiff, and weight-efficient motorsport-style tubular subframe. The unique architecture creates a motion ratio from pushrod to damper of 1:1 so the car responds precisely to track conditions.   

“We are extremely proud of our work on the Mustang GTD,” said Larry Holt, Executive Vice President, Multimatic Special Vehicle Operations. “It showcases our state-of-the-art DSSV spool valve suspension technology, with features not even allowed in racing. The Mustang GTD sets a new benchmark for roadgoing racers, and we can’t wait for clients to experience the thrill of driving it.”   

Road grip and cornering stability for the Mustang GTD come from 325 millimeter in width front tires – as wide as the rear tires of Ford GT – while the rear are 345 millimeters, these are mounted on 20-inch forged aluminum wheels or available forged magnesium wheels. The magnesium wheels offer the ideal combination of weight and durability and with a similar design to the Mustang GT3 race car.   
    
Behind those wheels are massive BremboTM carbon ceramic brakes, which are optimized for heat rejection leading to harder, more consistent stopping further into the braking zone. Rear brake heat is shed with the aid of cooling ducts mounted below the rear suspension.    

Mustang GTD features technology new to Ford with Variable Traction Control in track mode. This allows the driver to push the limits of the car by modulating engine output and traction control intrusiveness. Adjustments can be made without taking hands off the wheel, allowing the driver to match track conditions to their driving ability.    

Embracing the future of automotive technology, the Mustang GTD utilizes an advanced electrical architecture leveraged from the new seventh-generation Mustang, helping to offer seamless connectivity, a myriad of personalized driving modes, and over-the-air software updates. 

These technologies work in perfect harmony, designed for unparalleled handling and control. Whether mastering track after track or driving some of the world’s best roads, the Mustang GTD will offer an exhilarating and dynamic driving experience. 

Cabin Space    

The cockpit features are finished in premium materials including Miko suede paired with leather and carbon fiber, while digital displays keep drivers engaged and in full command. RECARO® seats optimized for track days are complemented by available 3D-printed titanium paddle shifters, rotary dial shifter and serial plate, all made from retired Lockheed Martin F-22 titanium parts. The rear seating area has been removed to reduce weight and provide cargo space.     

Mustang GTD will be available with multiple interior color combinations and in several special option packages that take the exterior to another level. The car can also be ordered in any color, even color-matched to a customer-provided sample. These customizable options allow buyers to personalize their example should they choose to make it entirely unique.    

The end result is an unmistakable presence, as close to a race-ready Mustang GT3 for the street as possible.    

Production of Mustang GTD will be limited. It will start life at the Ford Flat Rock Assembly Plant and then be transported to Multimatic facilities in Markham, Canada, where it will be handcrafted for racing-inspired precision by the Ford Performance and Multimatic teams. Mustang GTD will be available in late 2024, early 2025.

TAGGED:FordMustang GTD

Sign Up For Daily Newsletter

Stay Updated! Get the latest breaking news delivered straight to your inbox.

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.
Share This Article
Facebook Whatsapp Whatsapp LinkedIn VKontakte Telegram Email Copy Link Print
Share
ByItumeleng Garebatshabe
Editor
Follow:
Itumeleng is the Managing Editor of The Auto Magazine. He is a tech and car enthusiast

Follow US

FacebookLike
XFollow
InstagramFollow
YoutubeSubscribe
TiktokFollow
TelegramFollow
Google NewsFollow
LinkedInFollow
- Advertisement -
Ad imageAd image

You Might Also Like

Latest News

Ford Transit: 60 Years as Europe’s Trusted Business Partner

By Itumeleng Garebatshabe
June 18, 2025
Motosport

ACCOLADES AND AWARDS FOR SOUTH AFRICAN COMPETITORS AND VEHICLE MANUFACTURERS AFTER EXTREMELY TOUGH 2024 DAKAR RALLY

By Itumeleng Garebatshabe
January 23, 2024
Auto Shows

FORD CHARGES UP THE GOODWOOD HILL 

By Itumeleng Garebatshabe
July 11, 2024
Latest News

FORD PRO DOUBLES DOWN ON EUROPEAN MARKET LEADERSHIP WITH INTERNATIONAL VAN AND PICKUP OF THE YEAR AWARDS

By Itumeleng Garebatshabe
November 23, 2023
Latest News

FORD RAMPS UP FORD+ GROWTH

By Itumeleng Garebatshabe
October 18, 2023
Latest News

FORD EXPANDS GLOBAL TRUCK FAMILY WITH FIRST EVER RANGER PLUG-IN HYBRID

By Itumeleng Garebatshabe
September 19, 2023

The Auto Magazine

  • Advertise
  • About Us
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookie Policy
  • Bikes
  • Electric Vehicles
  • Trucks & Buses
  • Auto Shows
  • Latest News
  • Motosport

Made by Intellegere Media. All rights reserved. 2023

Don't not sell my personal information
Join Us!
Subscribe to our newsletter and never miss our latest news, podcasts etc.

Zero spam, Unsubscribe at any time.
adbanner