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Jun 06, 2023

Unveiling the Mustang GTD: Ford's Bold Leap into Racing Excellence

In a surprising revelation, Jim Farley, Ford Motor Company‘s president and CEO, introduces the Mustang GTD, an unprecedented fusion of power and design, in his personal Monterey, California garage.

In a surprising revelation, Jim Farley, Ford Motor Company‘s president and CEO, introduces the Mustang GTD, an unprecedented fusion of power and design, in his personal Monterey, California garage. With a history as the world’s best-selling sports coupe, the Mustang takes a thrilling leap into the realm of racing with the GTD model.

Inspired by the Mustang GT3, the GTD roars onto the scene with a commanding 800+ horsepower generated by its 5.2-liter dry sump V8 supercharged engine. The dual-clutch, high-torque capacity transaxle on the back propels this powerhouse, achieving a perfect 50/50 weight distribution for superior handling. Dual air inlets, advanced ceramic brakes, a titanium exhaust, magnesium wheels, and an extensive carbon fiber composition redefine the Mustang experience. Indeed, as Farley remarks, this is a Mustang like no other before.

Ford partnered with Multimatic, a Canadian industry leader in automotive components and engineering services, to craft the GTD. With a track record including the development of the Mustang GT3, Mustang GT4, and Le Mans-winning Ford GT, Multimatic’s expertise shines through in every aspect of the GTD’s design and performance.

The Mustang GTD isn’t just a remarkable road car – it’s a street-legal racing marvel. Ford’s intention is clear: to blur the distinction between road and track. Eyeing a triumphant return to Le Mans in the near future, Ford sets its sights on victory, solidifying the Mustang’s position as a pinnacle of automotive excellence.

Jim Farley’s confidence in the Mustang GTD is palpable. He challenges rival auto executives with a bold declaration: the GTD is ready to outperform their best road cars on the track. The gauntlet has been thrown, and Ford’s unwavering commitment to excellence is evident.

The culmination of collaborative efforts, the Mustang GTD boasts a taut and chiseled exterior reminiscent of an athlete in peak condition. The vented hood accentuates its iconic profile, while the hydraulically controlled active rear wing, attached to the optional C-pillar mount, lends a dynamic flow to the design. Purpose-built for endurance racing, every detail serves a strategic purpose.

Inside the GTD’s cockpit, a blend of Miko suede, leather, and carbon fiber creates an ambiance of luxury and performance. RECARO seats promise comfort and support during high-speed pursuits, while 3D-printed titanium paddle shifters, a rotary dial shifter, and a serialized plate – all crafted from retired Lockheed Martin F-22TM titanium parts – underscore the fusion of innovation and heritage.

Production of the Mustang GTD will be a limited affair, with pricing expected to start around $300,000. Enthusiasts and collectors alike can anticipate the arrival of the Mustang GTD in late 2024 to early 2025, marking a new chapter in Ford’s legacy of automotive excellence. Prepare to witness the transformation of a beloved icon into a racing legend.

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