After decades of evolution, Ford has unveiled what many consider the most ambitious Mustang ever created.
The 2025 Ford Mustang GTD represents not just another high-performance variant, but a complete reimagining of what an American supercar can achieve.
With applications now closed and production beginning, this elusive masterpiece is ready to write a new chapter in automotive history.
The Birth of a Legend
The Ford Mustang GTD stands for “Grand Touring Daytona,” paying homage to the legendary IMSA racing class where the most elite GT3 race cars compete.
This isn’t merely a road car with track capabilities—it’s a race car engineered for the street, representing Ford’s boldest statement in the supercar arena.
The GTD has already made history as the first sports car from an American automaker with an under-7-minute Nürburgring lap time target.
This ambitious goal places it directly in competition with Europe’s finest supercars, challenging the traditional hierarchy of high-performance vehicles.
Engineering Excellence Unleashed
Heart of the Beast
The supercharged 5.2-liter V8 produces an SAE-certified 815 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque, making it the most powerful production Mustang ever created.
This Predator-based engine features motorsports-grade enhancements including a dry-sump oiling system, ensuring consistent performance under extreme conditions.
The powertrain connects to an eight-speed dual-clutch transaxle positioned at the rear, achieving nearly perfect 50/50 weight distribution.
This configuration, combined with a lightweight carbon fiber driveshaft, results in extremely responsive handling and performance.
Revolutionary Suspension Technology
The GTD features Multimatic DSSV (Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve) technology in a production car. This state-of-the-art system includes adaptive suspension dampers that provide precise responses to road conditions.
In Track Mode, the hydraulic system lowers the ride height by approximately 40mm, improving both aerodynamics and handling dynamics.
Active Aerodynamics
Unlike conventional sports cars, the GTD employs active aerodynamic elements that would be banned in actual GT3 racing.
The gigantic wing, aggressive fenders, and front splitter panels feature active aerodynamics to optimize downforce as needed.
The Drag Reduction System can adjust the rear wing angle and activate front flaps to balance speed and grip depending on driving conditions.
Race-Inspired Design Philosophy
Carbon Fiber Construction
Standard carbon fiber body panels, driveshaft, and available underbody aerodynamic tray help reduce weight and improve performance.
The extensive use of carbon fiber doesn’t just reduce weight—it creates a visual connection to the Mustang GT3 race car that inspired the GTD’s development.
Premium Interior Experience
The cabin balances race-car functionality with street-car comfort.
Suede, leather, and carbon fiber are the main ingredients in the GTD’s interior, featuring Recaro bucket front seats while sacrificing rear cushions for weight reduction.
Perhaps most intriguingly, the paddle shifters are 3D-printed from titanium sourced from retired Lockheed Martin F-22 fighter jets, adding an aerospace connection to the automotive engineering marvel.
Exclusive Ownership Experience
Limited Production and Pricing
The GTD starts at approximately $325,000, with Ford planning to produce only around 1,000 units.
Similar to Ford’s Le Mans-winning GT hypercar program, owners need more clout than cash to secure this prize.
Applications for purchase have closed, making the GTD even more exclusive.
The selection process ensures that only the most dedicated enthusiasts will experience this technological masterpiece.
Performance Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | Supercharged 5.2L V8 |
| Horsepower | 815 HP (SAE-certified) |
| Torque | 664 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed dual-clutch transaxle |
| Top Speed | 202+ mph |
| 0-60 mph | Under 3.5 seconds (estimated) |
| Price | $325,000+ |
| Production | ~1,000 units |
The Broader Mustang Renaissance
60th Anniversary Celebrations
The GTD arrives during Mustang’s 60th anniversary year, alongside the limited-edition 60th Anniversary Package, exclusive to GT Premium coupes and convertibles, limited to 1,965 units in reference to the year the Mustang was introduced.
Technology Integration
The GTD features electrical architecture from the latest Mustang lineup, offering seamless connectivity, personalized driving modes, and Track Apps.
The dual-display setup includes a 12.4-inch LCD digital cluster and 13.2-inch center touchscreen with videogame-inspired graphics powered by the Unreal gaming engine.
Market Impact and Future Vision
Challenging European Dominance
“GTD’s heart is its supercharged 5.2-liter V8, packing more horsepower per liter than the Porsche 911 GT3 RS,” according to Greg Goodall, Mustang GTD Chief Program Engineer.
This statement represents Ford’s direct challenge to European supercar manufacturers.
Racing Heritage Connection
The GTD’s development parallels Ford’s return to international racing, including the Mustang GT3’s successful debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, finishing third in its class.
This racing success validates the technology transferred to the road-going GTD.
Environmental Considerations
The GTD prioritizes lap times over fuel economy, managing only 10 mpg in the city, 17 mpg on the highway, and 12 mpg combined.
This reflects its uncompromising focus on performance rather than efficiency.
The New Chapter Unfolds
The 2025 Mustang GTD represents more than just another high-performance car—it’s Ford’s declaration that American engineering can compete with the world’s best.
By combining cutting-edge technology, racing-derived components, and traditional Mustang soul, Ford has created something truly special.
As deliveries begin in late 2024 and early 2025, the automotive world watches to see if this elusive masterpiece can deliver on its ambitious promises.
The GTD doesn’t just represent a new chapter for Mustang—it potentially rewrites the entire American supercar narrative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does the 2025 Ford Mustang GTD cost? A: The GTD starts at approximately $325,000, making it Ford’s most expensive Mustang ever produced.
Q: How many GTD models will Ford produce? A: Ford plans to build only around 1,000 units, with applications for purchase now closed due to overwhelming demand.
Q: What makes the GTD different from other Mustangs? A: The GTD features 815 horsepower, active aerodynamics, race-derived suspension, and carbon fiber construction—technology not found in any other production Mustang.
