Overview
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is set to take place this weekend at the iconic Circuit de la Sarthe, bringing together motorsport greats for an annual showdown. Among the competitors is Ford, which is debuting its Mustang GT3. To celebrate, Ford has unveiled exciting new details about the street-legal Mustang GTD, showcasing its potential to dominate both on the track and on the streets.
Performance Pack and Enhancements
The Mustang GTD is equipped with a Performance Pack that includes substantial upgrades aimed at boosting its track capabilities:
- Engine: The highly modified 5.2-litre V8 engine delivers a remarkable 600 kW to the rear wheels.
- Transmission: An 8-speed dual-clutch transmission ensures precise and swift gear changes.
- Aerodynamics: Enhanced with dive planes, a large splitter at the front, and a massive rear wing with a drag reduction system. Additional underbody flaps further improve aerodynamics.
- Lightweight Pack: This package removes sound deadening to reduce weight, featuring 20-inch magnesium wheels and a new paint color, Chroma Flame.
Design and Features
The Mustang GTD boasts several design and feature enhancements:
- Exterior: Includes aerodynamic elements and the Lightweight Pack’s magnesium wheels.
- Carbon Series: This special edition leaves carbon fiber body parts unpainted on the hood, roof, and portions of the decklid. The wheels have a distinctive Magnetite finish and are available in aluminium or magnesium. The Carbon Series offers six standard exterior colors, including the striking Chroma Flame.
- Interior: Modern features with classic Mustang aesthetics, including 13.2-inch and 12.4-inch screens, Recaro seats, titanium shift paddles, and a GTD-specific steering wheel. The center console features new buttons for Track Apps and a front-axle lift feature. A clear rear window provides a view of the pushrod suspension.
Performance and Engineering
Ford’s commitment to performance is evident in the GTD’s engineering:
- Sub-Seven-Minute Nürburgring Lap: The Performance Pack is crucial for achieving this feat.
- Chief Engineer’s Insight: “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.” – Greg Goodall, Mustang GTD Chief Engineer.
Production and Availability
- Limited Production: Ford plans a two-year production run for the GTD, with approximately 1,400 units.
- Pricing: Estimated starting price is no less than $325,000 (around R6 million).
- Demand: Despite the high price tag, Ford has already received over 7,500 applications from prospective buyers in the US and Canada. The application process in North America is closed, and it remains uncertain whether global markets outside North America and Europe will have the opportunity to apply.
The new Mustang GTD exemplifies Ford’s commitment to combining track performance with street legality. Its introduction ahead of the 24 Hours of Le Mans not only highlights Ford’s engineering prowess but also celebrates the enduring legacy of the Mustang in motorsport.
