Ford has released new photos and details about the new Mustang GTD model before its debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans on Saturday, June 15. The new ICE-powered model will be the most sport-focused Mustang model ever, according to the company.
The street-legal Mustang GTD features a Performance package that adds dive planes and a larger splitter to the front fascia, underbody flaps and a drag reduction system to the rear wing, a key component in the quest for a sub-7-minute lap of the fabled Nürburgring.
The active aerodynamic elements reduce drag in a straight line without sacrificing aerodynamic grip while cornering. The Performance pack also includes a Lightweight package, which removes some sound-deadening material and adds stunning 20-inch magnesium wheels, in addition to a unique front fascia.
“Many sports cars excel at one thing. But for a car to set a quick lap at the Nürburgring, it needs to be great at everything. Cornering, grip, braking, acceleration, there’s not a single area where it can’t shine,” said Mustang GTD Chief Engineer Greg Goodall. “From the lightweight carbon fiber body on every GTD to the active aerodynamics of the Performance package, we’ve learned from motorsport how to make the Mustang GTD excel in the quest for a sub-seven-minute lap of the Nürburgring.”
A driver’s confidence is essential to a car’s performance and Mustang GTD keeps drivers focused and aware on every corner. Standard Recaros work in tandem with a new Mustang GTD steering wheel.
The flat-bottom steering wheel features Dinamica inserts and a leather wrap, along with carbon-fiber inserts. Exclusive to the Mustang GTD are buttons on the steering wheel for adjusting the suspension firmness and exhaust mode.
Two new buttons also join the hero panel ahead of the rotary gear selector to access the Track Apps page and activate a front-axle lift function to help avoid parking lot and driveway obstacles.
Drivers have greater control over how the standard eight-speed dual-clutch transaxle manages the supercharged 5.2-liter V8’s targeted 800-plus-horsepower, thanks to 3D-printed titanium paddle shifters. Oversized and featuring a hexagonal pattern that gives the driver’s fingers something to grip, it’s yet another example of Ford using motorsports to improve the driving experience.
“Mustang GTD does far more than elevate the Mustang’s performance envelope. It brings a new more focused, premium feel to the cabin,” said Design Manager Anthony Colard.
Mustang GTD’s new Chroma Flame paint takes center stage at Le Mans. One of six standard colors for Mustang GTD – alongside Polymimetic Gray, Race Red, Shadow Black, Frozen White, and Lightning Blue.
Highlighting the carbon-fiber body, the Carbon Series leaves the hood, roof, and rear Tech Deck unpainted, while finishing the wheels (aluminum or magnesium) in Magnetite.
The Sync 4 infotainment system now has Mustang GTD-specific welcome and farewell graphics on the 13.2-inch touchscreen and 12.4-inch reconfigurable digital gauge cluster. Each of the six drive modes features a Mustang GTD, while a new Performance gauge cluster is exclusive to the pinnacle of Mustang performance.
The Mustang GTD is expected to be a limited production model and start around $325,000. Ford is considering single-make racing series and driving school around the new model.
