Experience what it’s like to drive a Ford Mustang GT3 race car at Portugal’s Portimão circuit, as CAR magazine’s James Dennison takes the wheel of HRT’s #36 2025 DTM entry.
Earlier in the year, Dennison drove the 815bhp Mustang GTD and thought it was the ultimate Mustang—until this. The GT3 is a full-fledged race car: louder, tougher, and built for endurance, instantly redefining expectations.
Set at the Algarve International Circuit, the GT3 proves dramatically different from the road-based GTD. It’s far lighter (around 1.3 tons vs 2 tons) with a 5.4L naturally aspirated V8 producing about 550bhp, delivering comparable power-to-weight. Built for racing, it features advanced aerodynamics, race suspension, and a stripped, functional cockpit.
On track—mostly in wet conditions—the car delivers explosive sound, immense grip, and brutal physicality. It’s less about straight-line speed and more about braking, cornering, and precision. The driving experience is intense, demanding, and deeply rewarding.
Despite being a newer GT3 contender, it has already shown promise in DTM competition. Most impressively, it retains the raw, muscular character of a V8 Mustang—blending classic muscle car attitude with serious race engineering.
Source: CAR magazine
