Ford has set its sights on breaking the seven-minute barrier at Nürburgring with the Mustang GTD, a feat accomplished only by the most elite exotics. No North American car has achieved this. After a year of testing at the track, Ford has confirmed an official time is set, but the exact number remains a secret for now.
While Ford hasn’t disclosed the exact lap time, expectations are high that the seven-minute target was met. A documentary detailing the journey premieres on December 10, with a teaser already out. With decades of racing insight, the GTD represents the pinnacle of Mustang engineering.
Track-ready but street-legal, the Mustang GTD boasts a suspension system tuned for both extremes. Multimatic’s Adaptive Spool Valve dampers ensure the car is firm enough for racing yet refined for daily use. Active aerodynamics, including a Formula 1-style Drag Reduction System, refine the GTD’s track performance.
Powering the GTD is a supercharged 5.2-liter V-8, delivering 815 horsepower. Based on the previous Shelby GT500 engine, it features key updates: dry-sump lubrication, higher revs, a smaller supercharger pulley, and a titanium exhaust for improved performance and weight reduction.
Rear-wheel drive is managed by an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission mounted at the rear for better weight distribution. Ford claims a 202 mph top speed for the GTD. Set for the 2025 and 2026 model years, there’s no confirmation yet about production beyond that.
Ford’s selection process for the GTD attracted over 7,500 North American applicants last spring. Production begins later this year, handled by Multimatic, known for building the Ford GT and Mustang race cars. The number of available build slots remains uncertain.
Starting around $325,000, the Mustang GTD offers performance and weight-saving packages for buyers seeking the ultimate driving experience. Chevrolet’s upcoming Corvette ZR1, with 1,064 horsepower and a top speed of 233 mph, could soon challenge the Mustang’s Nürburgring performance.
