The Ford Mustang GTD has set an incredible benchmark as the first American car to break the seven-minute barrier at the Nürburgring, clocking a 6:57.685 lap time. Despite cold and damp conditions, the 815-horsepower machine, achieved what many would have deemed impossible for a Mustang.
The Mustang GTD is a radical departure from the traditional Mustang. To understand its transformation, Top Gear visited Ford’s technical partner, Multimatic Special Vehicle Operations, in Toronto. Multimatic has an impressive résumé, having worked on the AMG One hypercar, Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR Pro, Porsche 963, and numerous Formula 1 components.
The GTD boasts a 5.2L supercharged V8 produces 815 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, enabling a top speed of 202 mph. The dry-sump engine benefits from a titanium exhaust and optimized intake systems to reduce losses. Massive 325mm front and 345mm rear tires provide unparalleled grip, while the transmission—a rear-mounted 8-speed dual-clutch transaxle—delivers near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution.
