Ford not only has it set a new milestone in its return to competition, but it has also revolutionized the automotive world with the launch of the Mustang GTDa vehicle that is both a track beast and a street-legal car.
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This imposing car, which borrows GT3 racing technologyis a clear demonstration of the oval brand’s commitment to its Performance division and their passion for delivering products that not only meet their customers’ expectations, but far exceed them.
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The Mustang GTD It is not simply another version of the iconic muscle car; It is a completely transformed carwith aerodynamics that reflect its racing heritage and an engine designed to deliver exceptional power and performance.
Instead of following the conventional Mustang formula, Ford decided to go furtherincorporating racing elements that elevate it to a higher level. Its aggressive appearance, with sharp lines and strategically placed air intakes, makes it a true road predator.
What is most striking about the Mustang GTD is its deep connection to the IMSA GTD division.from which it gets its name. This model is clearly inspired by the world of racing, but unlike its track cousins, this Mustang is approved for driving on the street, although at first glance it seems more suitable for a closed circuit.
Taking the new generation of the Mustang as a base and applying the experience acquired with the GT3, Ford Performance has worked tirelessly to create a vehicle that is as comfortable on the track as it is on the road.
Mustang GTD design and aerodynamics
Every inch of the Mustang GTD is designed with aerodynamic efficiency in mind.The front bumper has been redesigned with a significantly larger central air intake.complemented by splitters that optimize air flow.
This focus on aerodynamics not only improves the stability of the vehicle, but also allows for better cooling of its components. The huge air intakes on the bonnet and wheel arches are a clear example of how the functional design can go hand in hand with aesthetics.
In addition, the extensive use of carbon fiber on the roof, side panels and impressive rear spoiler lightens the car’s weight, improving both its performance and visual appeal.
A curious detail is the incorporation of ventilation grids on the trunk lid.which might lead some to believe that this Mustang is a rear-mid-engine car. However, the GTD keeps the engine in the front.
Located at the rear is the transaxle transmission and a semi-active suspension system, a key component that allows this car to offer exceptional performance in all types of curves.
Performance and power
Under the hood, The Mustang GTD houses a powerful 5.2-liter V8 enginesupercharged with an air compressor and equipped with a dry sump system, which ensures that the engine remains lubricated even in the most demanding curves.
This engine impresses not only with its size, but also with its figures: 826 horsepower and 910 Nm of torque. All this is managed by a dual-clutch automatic transmission and 8 speedswhich sends power to the rear wheels.
Ford claims this engine can outperform 7,500 rpmwhich translates into a unique auditory experience, enhanced by an exhaust system with active titanium valves.
This combination of raw power and technological refinement not only guarantees top-level performance on the straights, but also outstanding maneuverability in the tightest corners.
Technology inspired by racing
The semi-active suspension systemderived directly from the world of racing, allows the suspension hardness to be adjusted depending on the driving mode selected.
The front axle is equipped with a short arm systemwhile the rear axle has a multilink layout. In addition, the carbon-ceramic brakes, developed by Brembo, ensure that the Mustang GTD has the ability to stop quickly and safelyeven after long sessions on the track.
Ford is not content with just talking about numbers. The brand has an ambitious goal: The Mustang GTD will seek to break the 7-minute barrier on the iconic Nürburgring circuita feat that, if achieved, will place it among the elite of the world’s fastest production cars.
This challenge puts the GTD in direct competition with renowned rivals such as the Porsche 911 GT3, and Ford is confident that its new model will live up to expectations.
A specialized production process
The production of the Mustang GTD is as unique as the car itself. Unlike other models, its assembly involves several plants located in different countries.
The body is manufactured in Flat Rock, Michiganwhile the engine is produced at the Dearborn plant. Then everything is shipped to Multimatic’s facilities in Canadawhere the car is assembled by hand, guaranteeing an exceptional level of precision and quality.
With the Mustang GTD, Ford has not only created a car that is impressive from an engineering point of view, but also a true work of automotive art that combines the best of competition with the possibility of enjoying it on the street.