Ford Mustang GTD Returns to the Nürburgring, Targets Faster Lap Times
Ford is back at the Nürburgring with the Mustang GTD, aiming to improve its already impressive lap time of 6:57.6, set in August 2024. After making history as the fastest American production car to ever lap the Green Hell, Ford is focused on refining its performance even further.
Improving on the Record
While the overall production car record, held by the Mercedes-AMG One at 6:29, is likely out of reach, Ford has set its sights on more achievable targets. A lap time under 6:55—beating the Porsche 911 GT3—is a real possibility. Although challenging the 911 GT3 RS’s 6:49 or the AMG GT Black Series’s 6:43 would be ambitious, Ford might surprise us.
Price and Performance
The Mustang GTD, starting at $325,000, positions itself as a competitor to the most exclusive performance cars on the market. With a price tag rivaling the now-discontinued AMG GT Black Series, the GTD is more than just a muscle car—it’s a track-ready powerhouse aimed at the top-tier market. For comparison, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS starts at $241,300, making the GTD a worthy contender for those seeking elite performance.
Unmatched Power and Speed
The heart of the Mustang GTD is its 5.2-liter supercharged V8, producing a staggering 815 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. This allows it to reach a top speed of 202 mph (325 km/h), making it the second-fastest Ford after the Ford GT supercar. The engine’s spine-tingling roar is impossible to ignore, adding to the car’s visceral driving experience.
Track-Ready Design
The Mustang GTD’s aggressive design is unmistakably race-focused, with wide bodywork and high-performance aerodynamics that make it look more at home on a racetrack than the streets. In fact, Ford has acknowledged that the GTD may not be street-legal in some European markets. This rarity is amplified by the limited production numbers—only 300 to 700 units are expected to be built each year. Buyers should also note that the car can’t be sold for a profit during the first two years of ownership.
Conclusion
The Ford Mustang GTD isn’t just about raw power—it’s a statement of American performance on the global stage. With its bold design, blistering speed, and exclusive production, the GTD is more than just a car; it’s a symbol of Ford’s commitment to pushing the limits of what a Mustang can achieve.
