FYI: In August 2023, Ford unveiled the Mustang GTD, an audacious new iteration marking perhaps the most ambitious Mustang yet, almost six decades after its original debut.
It’s wild and wicked, boasting an undeniably menacing presence with its widebody stance! Meet the Mustang GTD, Ford’s most ambitious take on the iconic Mustang launched in August 2023. With nearly six decades since the first-generation model, the Mustang GTD signifies a bold leap into the supercar territory.
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A New Chapter in Mustang History
The Mustang GTD is set to be an unforgettable chapter in the storied history of America’s most recognizable muscle car. Ford aims to solidify its place in the supercar echelon, traditionally dominated by European giants. The GTD will not go unnoticed—its price tag of $325,000 cements it as the most expensive production Mustang ever.
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The Bold Statement of the Mustang GTD
Ford has named this beast ‘GTD,’ standing for Grand Touring Daytona, a nod to the IMSA GTD racing class where its GT3 sibling competes. The GTD spares no theatrics; it’s a race-tuned marvel encased in a chassis of metal and carbon fiber. A supercharged 5.2L V8 engine generating over 800 horsepower lies at its heart, surpassing even the McLaren 750S, the 2025 Aston Martin Vantage, and the new Porsche 911 hybrid supercar.
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Taking on the Giants
Despite packing monstrous power, the Mustang GTD is designed for road use, fully homologated for the streets. Its 800-hp engine roars thanks to a titanium Akrapovic exhaust system, making its presence known long before it appears.
Engine power is transferred to the rear wheels via an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and a carbon-fiber driveshaft, ensuring rapid shifts to maximize performance.
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Beyond raw power, every vent, cutout, and curve on this aerodynamic marvel serves a purpose—cooling, downforce, or aerodynamics. According to Greg Goodall, Mustang GTD Chief Program Engineer, every feature is strategically designed to improve performance, be it on a track or a highway.
The Competition Heats Up
The Mustang GTD steps into an arena teeming with elite competitors. Key rivals include the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, renowned for its aerodynamic precision and 500-hp performance, and the McLaren 750S, an evolution of the highly regarded 720S. The McLaren packs a twin-turbo 4.0L V8 capable of 740 hp with impeccable handling.
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The American Battlefield
On American soil, the Mustang GTD will contend with the Chevrolet Corvette Z06. GM’s shift to a mid-engine layout transformed the Corvette into a serious contender, especially the Z06 model, which offers rapid acceleration and everyday usability.
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International Icons
Elsewhere in the market are formidable adversaries such as the Lamborghini Huracan Tecnica, a fan favorite combining thrilling acceleration and sharp handling, and the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, which thrives with a 720-hp twin-turbocharged V8 and an aggressive aerodynamic package.
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The Future of the Mustang GTD
Facing stiff competition from heavyweights like Aston Martin and Nissan, the Mustang GTD has its work cut out. However, Ford’s decision to produce the GTD in limited numbers—reportedly around 1,000 units—adds an extra layer of allure and exclusivity. Already, the Mustang GTD has captured significant interest, with over 7,500 applications from prospective buyers.
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The Mustang GTD is more than just a car; it’s a bold statement in the supercar world. As this limited-edition masterpiece rolls out, it will undoubtedly strive to uphold and enhance the Mustang’s legacy as America’s favorite pony car. Stay tuned to see if the GTD lives up to its monumental hype.
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William Rapp, Editor of Automotive.fyi
