As most are well aware by now, the Ford Mustang GTD became one of very few vehicles to record a sub-seven-minute lap time at Germany's legendary Nurburgring circuit last year, posting a best lap of 6:57:685, after which it managed an even better 6:52.072 in the spring. However, just this past July, both the C8 Corvette ZR1 and ZR1X wound up beating the Mustang GTD with times of 6:50.763 and 6:49.275, respectively. Now, the Ford Mustang GTD is back at the 'Ring yet again.
Here, we're getting a great look at what is clearly an updated version of the Ford Mustang GTD at the Nurburgring, just a couple of months after Blue Oval CEO Jim Farley told GM that it was "game on" following the ZR1 duo's performance. There are some additions here that weren't present on the GTDs previously spotted at that famous track, which are clearly aimed at helping the pony car take down its rivals - much like the 3D-printed parts we saw Ford utilize before.
Those include, for starters, new "Aerodisks" on the rear wheels, which are essentially lightweight pieces designed to optimize aerodynamics. Up front, we can see some new bumper canards to further aid in that department, coupled with a set of flaps in the hood's open air outlets - quite similar to the ones present on the current-generation Porsche 911 GT3 RS.
According to sources, the sounds emitted from this Ford Mustang GTD are a bit different than what we heard previously as well - though it is worth noting that Ford is likely toying around with that aspect, given the fact that the Nurburgring has noise regulations in place that must be adhered to. This also means that the GTD can typically only complete a maximum of one or two laps each day. However, when we peek out back, we also get a peek at a strange-looking set of mufflers with pipes facing downward, toward the pavement.
Whether or not the Ford Mustang GTD can shave enough time off its best lap at the 'Ring to take down the Corvette ZR1 and ZR1X remains to be seen, but it's clear that The Blue Oval isn't taking this challenge lying down. With the temperatures beginning to ramp down, however, Ford only has a little time left to do so before perhaps it may have to plan yet another return trip to Germany.
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What's funny is that the auto media really thinks the majority of us care about this ongoing one upmanship between Jim and Mary. Fact is, we don't.
The real value, in my eyes, is the R&D that can go into a car like this, where parts and designs are pushed to the very edge. Run them hard. Break them. That kind of work actually does filter down to the vehicles we can buy in the real world. It's not just about the Blue Oval beating the Bowtie in a particular environment... although, if I'm being honest, does make me smile. The rivalry between brands and owners is a real thing.
The majority of any market doesn’t care about ongoing developments on the outer edges. They’re a pretty boring bounce now aren’t they? They may also not appreciate the value these developments may hold for future integration into vehicles for the boring masses.
Continuous improvement can improve the cars yet to be built. I for one am excited to see what Ford does to improve lap times.
Even though I'll never be able to afford a GTD, i'm happy that at least Ford is making it. It's an amazing car, even though only 1% of the population can afford it.. Even though I'm mad at them for stopping building cars, with the exception of the Mustang and had to buy a Hyundai Elantra Limited Hybrid (50 mpg!) because I wanted a 4 door sedan. Some people don't want an S.U.V, and I think that they are finally figuring that out, watching Toyota & Hyundai sell hundreds of thousands sedans a year. They should bring back the Focus RS and the Fiesta ST. and make a Maverick RS with serious power. It's great they're getting back into F1, and before long, we'll have Cadillac and Ford back in that sport. So keep coming up with vehicles for enthusiasts, and you'll sell everyone that you build.
Those funny looking mufflers may be due to Germany's restrictive noise regulations.
Yes this is very important for Ford to be faster then GM while your at 1million recalls so far.
'With some new exterior enhancements'? I think the biggest 'enhancement' is the rear wheels and tires!! MUCH wider.