While the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed was undoubtedly a platform for revealing the latest and greatest in the automotive world, Ford wasn’t there to simply showcase shiny new concepts. They brought pure muscle in the form of the monstrous Mustang GTD, and this wasn’t a display for the faint of heart.
The GTD roared to life and took on the famed Goodwood hill climb, a legendary test that pushes a car’s power and handling to the limit. Online videos capture the raw excitement of the GTD conquering the tight corners and dramatic elevation changes, leaving a trail of smoke and screeching tires in its wake.
These videos are a must-watch for anyone who wants to see the engineering marvel in action, offering a thrilling look into the capabilities of this extraordinary Mustang. Beyond the visual spectacle, the GTD boasts several impressive features, including a wider track for enhanced stability, lightweight carbon fiber components, and a motorsport-inspired subframe for superior handling.
Even the suspension is a marvel of engineering, with a transparent panel revealing its inner workings and a remarkable ability to adjust from soft to firm settings in a mere 15 milliseconds. The GTD is a true powerhouse, a perfect blend of raw muscle and cutting-edge technology.
While the aggressive exterior of the Mustang GTD hints at a wild driving experience, the interior remains relatively familiar. Released images show that Ford has largely carried over the cabin layout from the S650, including the design of the doors, controls, and instrument displays.
However, the GTD does benefit from some exclusive touches, including a distinctive see-through panel in the hood and unique graphics for the digital screens. Carbon fiber accents, a special steering wheel, and dedicated track mode buttons further differentiate the GTD’s cockpit.
Performance specifications for the GTD are still under wraps, but Ford has confirmed a targeted output exceeding 800 horsepower from its supercharged 5.2L V8 engine. How does this stack up against its predecessor, the Shelby GT500? The GTD edges out the GT500 by around 40 horsepower, with the Shelby achieving a quarter-mile time in the 10-second range and a 0-60 mph time of roughly 3 seconds.
A less powerful 480-horsepower variant is also available, providing buyers with a choice between a manual or automatic transmission and a fastback or convertible body style. Unlike the standard S650 Mustang lineup, Ford has shrouded the GTD’s production numbers in secrecy. This isn’t a mere marketing ploy; a glance at the price tag sheds light on the manufacturer’s strategy.
Starting at a staggering $325,000, the GTD transcends everyday Mustangs and positions itself firmly in supercar territory. This calculated production cap caters to a niche market deep-pocketed collectors with an eye for potential investment.
Owning a GTD isn’t just about the thrill of the drive; it’s a chance to secure a piece of automotive exclusivity that’s bound to appreciate over time. For those seeking a purely emotional connection, the iconic Lamborghini Huracan might hold more appeal, but the GTD offers a unique blend of high-performance pedigree and shrewd financial opportunity.
