Insanely Fast and Furious: Ford's Mustangs GTD Aims for Record-Breaking Nurburgring Lap Time
When Ford revealed the Mustang GTD, enthusiasts were left salivating over its performance promises and sky-high price tag. After showing off its somewhat mundane interior, the GTD has now taken to the iconic Nurburgring circuit in Germany. Why is this such a big deal? It's gunning for a sub-7-minute lap time—a feat that would place it among hypercars and performance legends.
At around $325,000, the Mustang GTD is pricier than even a new Ferrari Roma or a Porsche 911 Turbo S, and it will be a rarity with limited production numbers. But what makes this muscle car stand out? It packs a supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine delivering over 800 horsepower beneath its sleek hood. That’s a significant jump over the S550 Mustang Shelby GT500’s 760 horsepower, making it a true beast on the track.
The GTD’s arsenal includes a wider track, a carbon fiber driveshaft, body panels, and a tubular subframe honed in motorsport disciplines. High-performance carbon ceramic brakes work tirelessly behind 20-inch forged magnesium wheels. The suspension, which adjusts in a mere 15 milliseconds, is visible through a rear panel similar to those on mid-engine exotics. But the focus isn't only on performance; the car’s aerodynamics are more advanced than anything you'll find in the current S650 Mustang line.
Admittedly, the interior doesn't quite match the car’s extraordinary exterior and mechanical specifications. You’ll find the same dual-screen setup, buttons, door cards, and air vents as other Mustangs. However, it redeems itself slightly with unique paddle shifters, a nose-lift system button, and carbon fiber trim. Though some argue it doesn't justify the hefty price tag, the GTD aims to offer a supercar experience on the track.
Given the Ford Mustang GTD’s ferocious power and high-tech features, it seems destined for greatness, yet only a talented driver can truly unleash its potential. We eagerly await the moment it goes head-to-head with the clock at the ‘Ring. Whether it stands apart from its Mustang siblings—GT and Dark Horse—will be revealed soon enough.