The upcoming 2024 Ford Mustang will be more difficult for aftermarket companies to tune, according to the company's engineers.

As reported by Ford Authority, the automaker has taken measures to lock down the new Mustang's hardware. The new S650 Mustang is built on the company's Fully-Networked Vehicle (FNV) architecture. This introduces new features like over-the-air updates, but also includes cybersecurity measures to prevent unauthorized hacking or meddling by malicious actors. This has the side-effect of making it difficult for anyone but Ford to tune the engine by altering parameters like timing and fuel maps in the ECU.

Speaking to Ford Authority, Ford Mustang Chief Engineer Ed Krenz indicated that tuning will be much harder on the new model. That's due to the FNV architecture using encryption on the "full stack," referring to the entire suite of electronic hardware in the vehicle. Everything, including the ECU, is encrypted, and various modules in the vehicle must use authentication to communicate with each other. If authentication fails, the vehicle can shut down or lock out affected modules.

Similar measures have become common in the automotive industry. Security is important, as it's simply not safe to leave a car's computers open to running any given code. Various hacks have already been demonstrated where cars have had their braking or steering systems compromised wirelessly. Over-the-air update systems only open up a new attack surface, allowing hackers to potentially target more vehicles than ever before. Thus, it's imperative that automakers implement robust protections to prevent such behavior.

Whether you're keen on a cam upgrade or installing forced induction, tuning a new Mustang to suit will be harder. That's not to say it will be impossible, though. Unlocking factory ECUs is the bread and butter of aftermarket tuning companies, even if new models like the C8 Corvette are making that harder than ever. It's much the same story as the world of agriculture, where hackers are eagerly unlocking the hardware in John Deere's tractors.

Back in the old days, when factory ECUs weren't easily tunable, tuners would ditch the factory hardware entirely. Standalone engine management systems are readily available from companies like Holley and Motec, and can run a modern engine without issue. However, automakers guard against this by the sheer level of integration in modern vehicles. Everything from the power windows to the gauge cluster in a modern car relies on communication between multiple modules. Yanking one typically brings the whole thing crashing down.

Ford isn't strictly anti-tuning however. Various upgrades and tuning packages have been sold by dealers over the years, at times even available with a factory warranty. It may be that the new Mustang features more of these close third-party partnerships with tuners that have a relationship with Ford.

Regardless of Ford's efforts, though, one thing remains true. Mustang enthusiasts love their cars, they love fiddling around under the hood, and they're willing to pay for the privilege. With so many dollars up for grabs, one suspects the aftermarket will figure something out sooner rather than later.

Ford has an early gift for fans of performance this holiday season. Official horsepower numbers are in for the seventh-generation Mustang, and as expected, the new Dark Horse model leads the way with an even 500 horsepower and 418 pound-feet of torque. However, the GT isn't far behind with an official rating of 480 hp. Add an optional exhaust upgrade and power rises to 486 ponies. EcoBoost models receive a slight bump to 315 hp.

While there have been more powerful Mustang models through the years, the fourth-generation Coyote V8 in the Dark Horse is the most powerful naturally aspirated 5.0-liter production engine ever offered by Ford. It wields upgraded internals, namely forged connecting rods, a unique balanced crankshaft, and strengthed camshafts. In addition to bumping the power slightly, the engine is able to better withstand extended time at its 7,500-rpm redline.

The fourth-generation Coyote also holds station in the GT, matching the 480 hp previously offered in the Mustang Bullitt. The Mach 1 carried the same rating before getting a revision to 470 hp. A new dual throttle body design helps the latest Coyote crank out its power, though you'll need to select the optional active performance exhaust system to get the 486-hp peak. Torque is up to 418 lb-ft, or 415 lb-ft with the standard-issue V8.Buyers shopping the base model 'Stang have a turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine that Ford says is all-new. Even though displacement is the same, the mill has a new bore-to-stroke ratio, a new direct injection system, and a plethora of other changes for a bit more power while also targeting better fuel economy. With 315 hp and 350 lb-ft of twist, it's officially the most powerful base-model Mustang Ford has ever offered.

"Mustang has always pushed the envelope," said Ford Mustang Chief Engineer Ed Krenz. "From Mustang GT to Dark Horse, this is our best 5.0-liter V8 yet. It’s naturally aspirated awesomeness. And Mustang EcoBoost fans are also getting a boost in power to make every Mustang more fun and visceral to drive."

Expect the seventh-generation 2024 Mustang to reach dealerships in the summer of 2023. In the meantime, check out Ford and other automakers with a 2022 Motor1.com Star Awards recap in the Rambling About Cars podcast, available below.

The 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse was revealed at last year’s Detroit Auto Show, but Ford never showed off the performance model’s interior. That changes today, as Ford just released photos and details about the Dark Horse’s unique interior changes. Plus, the painted stripe option introduced on the previous-gen Shelby GT500 returns.

Blue is the theme for the Dark Horse’s interior styling. While the main color of the interior is largely black, Ford uses blue accents throughout to differentiate it from other Mustang models. The flat-bottom steering wheel has Bright Indigo Blue stitching. That same blue stitching is found on the instrument panel, door panel, seats, gear shift boot and center console. The shift knob for the six-speed manual transmission is a unique titanium knob in anodized blue — Ford says it’s hollow to keep it from getting hot in warm weather. For those who opt for the 10-speed auto, the paddles get an anodized silver finish.

Optionally, you can spec a Dark Horse Appearance package that includes Recaro seats featuring Bright Indigo Blue bolsters and black suede center inserts — these are the seats pictured in photos. The seats feature perforations with blue accents visible underneath, and lastly, Ford throws in blue seatbelts to match.

Outside of the blue theme, every Dark Horse gets bezels and vent trim in a dark metallic gloss instead of bright silver trim on other Mustangs. Different textures are used for the instrument panel and door panel to suggest a carbon fiber-esque look. As a final touch, every Dark Horse gets an instrument panel badge that states the vehicle’s chassis number.



Moving to the exterior, Ford provided some details about the stripe packages that will be available on the Dark Horse. You’ll be able to pick between vinyl or painted stripes, with the painted stripes surely coming at a steep extra cost. Ford offered painted stripes on the Shelby GT500 last generation for an additional $10,000 over the cost of vinyl stripes. Don’t be surprised if a similar cost is associated with the Dark Horse’s stripes. Ford hand-paints them in a special process not available for any other Mustang trim (for now, at least) if you check that box.



The last item we’ll point out is that Ford provided some overhead view shots of the Dark Horse in paint colors other than the Blue Ember paint used in the initial reveal. The red Dark Horse (above, left) features Ford’s vinyl stripes, while the white Dark Horse (above, right) has the painted stripes.

Remember when a little birdie told car vlogger StangMode that $50k-ish would be the starting price of the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse? That little birdie was badly wrong. The highest-performing S650 is priced closer to $60k, which makes it costlier than the Mach 1.

$1,400 costlier, that is. According to information acquired by Ford Authority, the Dark Horse carries a base price of $57,970 as opposed to $56,570 for the Mach 1. Customers who specify the 700A equipment group have to splurge $2,595 as opposed to $2,095. The Appearance Package and Handling Package, on the other hand, both feature similar prices to the Mach 1-specific optional packages.

The Recaro seats cost $1,650 according to Ford Authority’s insider, who also understands that $1,595 is the sticker price of the 10-speed automatic transmission. Last but certainly not least, carbon-fiber wheels add… wait for it… a whopping $8,495. There’s no denying that Ford has delivered a better-performing pony car than the Mach 1, but said high performance comes at a high cost.

According to the cited publication, all prices are subject to change. Pricing information for the GT and EcoBoost sadly isn’t available for the time being. That being said, how different is the S650 from the previous-gen S550?

Under the skin, the answer is not much. The oily bits, on the other hand, are much improved over the 2.3-liter EcoBoost and 5.0-liter Coyote in the S550. Now referred to as MPC, which stands for Modular Power Cylinder, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost is described as entirely new. Packing both port and direct injection, the four-cylinder turbo features an integrated airbox in front of the front-end accessory drive unit. Packaging the airbox this way is a nightmare for servicing, but then again, mounting the all-new airbox so close to the intake manifold minimizes losses.

The numbers you’re looking for are 315 horsepower and 350 pound-feet (475 Nm), representing a 5-horsepower improvement over the non-MPC engine. Oh, and by the way, EcoBoost-powered ‘Stangs now come exclusively with the 10-speed tranny. A bit of a bummer, I know…

On the upside, Ford offers a good ol’ manual in conjunction with the 5.0-liter Coyote. The primary difference between it and the S550-spec engine is the way it sucks air into the combustion chambers. Not only does it feature two air intakes, but two throttle bodies as well.

The GT produces 480 horsepower and 415 pound-feet (563 Nm), whereas the performance exhaust unlocks six more ponies and three more pound-feet of torque. The primary difference between the GT-spec engine and Dark Horse-spec engine comes in the guise of Shelby GT500 connecting rods. The Dark Horse mirrors the 418 pound-feet (567 Nm) of torque of the performance exhaust-equipped GT. According to Ford, the most powerful Coyote ever put into a production car rocks 500 ponies.

The Ford Motor Company has updated its consumer website with pricing information for the all-new Mustang that borrows heavily from the outgoing model. The seventh generation starts at $30,920 for the EcoBoost Fastback excluding the $1,595 destination charge. By comparison, the sixth generation is $27,770 plus $1,395 freight and $1,595 for the automatic box.

Codenamed 10R, the 10-speed unit is the only choice offered with the 2.3-liter turbo for the 2024 model year. The manual soldiers on in the V8-engined GT and high-performance Dark Horse, although there are different suppliers and designs. Tremec supplies the six-speed stick shift of the Dark Horse, whereas Magna-owned Getrag is contracted for the lesser tranny of the GT.

EcoBoost Premium Fastback kicks off at $36,445 for the 2024 model year, followed by EcoBoost Premium Convertible at $41,945 excluding DFC. The Ford Motor Company has redesigned the 2.3-liter turbo for this very application, with the base engine producing 315 horsepower and 350 pound-feet (475 Nm) of twist.

Higher still, Ford’s website lists the GT Fastback and GT Premium Fastback at $41,495 and $46,015, respectively. The GT Premium Convertible carries a sticker price of $51,515, which is a lot of money for a Mustang. The Dark Horse takes the cake at $57,970 before destination and options, with said options being very expensive.

Carbon-fiber wheels? Those are $8,495, thank you! The 10-speed automatic is $1,595 over Tremec’s manual transmission, Recaro seats add $1,650 to the tally, the Handling Package is $4,500, the Appearance Package is going for $1,250, and the 700A equipment group is $500 drearier than the Mach 1’s 700A package at $2,595.

Hand-painted graphics are in the offing as well, although pricing information isn’t available at press time. Given that the previous-generation Shelby GT500 could be configured with painted stripes for a cool $10,000, the Dark Horse’s graphics certainly are very expensive.

The build & price tool isn't yet live, with FoMoCo waiting for March 27th for that. March 27th will also see the order banks open, with deliveries scheduled to commence this coming summer for the U.S. market.

Care to guess how much power and torque Ford’s fourth-generation Coyote develops in the GT and Dark Horse? For starters, 480 horsepower and 415 pound-feet (563 Nm). The available active-valve performance exhaust improves both figures to 486 horsepower and 418 pound-feet (567 Nm). The Dearborn-based automaker chose 486 only to spite Dodge, whose 392-ci HEMI V8 belts out 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet (644 Nm).

The biggest difference over the previous-gen Coyote is the adoption of dual intakes and throttle bodies, channeling more air into the engine for bigger bangs. The Dark Horse-spec Coyote produces the same kind of peak torque as the GT with the optional exhaust, although improved to 500 horsepower. Shelby GT500 forged piston connecting rods, strengthened cams, and a uniquely balanced crank set the Dark Horse engine apart from the GT.

This infatuation with turning everything into an off-roader has gone off the trails. Porsche turned the iconic 911 into the dirt-spewing Dakar. Lamborghini is ready to get down and dirty, not with the Urus SUV, but with the 602-hp Huracán Sterrato. Even Toyota's Sienna Woodland Edition, a lifted minivan, has found a new way to make kids regurgitate chicken nuggets. Now Ford is adding to the craze.

Deep within Ford's Dearborn headquarters, there's a mindset to Raptorize everything. Going full desert racer with the F-150 was the godfather of the concept. The Bronco Raptor that followed was a no-brainer. That the philosophy trickles down to the upcoming Ranger Raptor makes sense. Even giving the treatment to the Explorer and Expedition doesn't seem far off. But to turn the Mustang into a trail-prepped coupe seems like a stretch. Or is it?

We should've seen this coming years ago when we noticed splined front hubs on the sixth-generation Mustang. Naturally, we anticipated all-wheel drive in the future to enable blistering acceleration, not to turn the backwoods into rally circuits.

Though just about any of Ford's many engines will nestle into the Mustang's engine bay, the Raptor's offering will be what Bronco enthusiasts are pining for: a nearly 500-hp 5.0-liter V-8. Sorry, folks, no manual-transmission option here. Also, don't expect a two-speed transfer case. To make the most of the limited space in the drive tunnel, a 10-speed automatic will route torque to all four wheels through an electronically controlled center differential. Of course, a Mustang Raptor R with a 700-plus-hp supercharged 5.2-liter V-8 will arrive sometime later—because why not?

Keeping true to the Raptor heritage, Fox Live Valve dampers will pad the landings when it's time to get all Bo and Luke Duke. Bespoke suspension components and elongated springs will provide a 2.0-inch lift, and an abundant number of underbody bash plates will protect the Mustang's vitals from harm. All-terrain tires will tuck into the cladding-protected fenders.

As the seventh-generation Mustang reaches dealerships later this fall and the inevitable street-oriented performance models follow, the Raptor variant should arrive in 2026. Like all Raptors, it won't come cheap, but it'll cost a lot less than a lifted Lamborghini. The limited run of off-road Mustangs should start around $90,000, expect to pay more for mudflaps.

In February 1992, long before anyone at Ford dreamed of an off-road Mustang, C/D conducted a mustang-versus-Mustang test that pitted an equine member against a Fox-body Mustang GT convertible on a dirt track. Tang the mare ran the quarter in 34.3 seconds at 25 mph; the Mustang GT did it in 17.0 seconds at 89 mph. Based on its as-tested price, the horse won.

The best-known sports car will compete in the world's most iconic endurance race as the Ford Mustang GT3 takes on the challenge of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June 2024.

The Ford Mustang GT3 race car, based on the all-new 2024 Mustang Dark Horse, was unveiled to the racing world during the centenary celebration on the eve of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The Mustang race car boasts a bold, colorful new look from Troy Lee, who is recognized as one of the premier motorsports designers in the world. The legendary Mustang GT3 represents Lee's first foray with Ford race cars.

With the reveal, Ford officially enters Mustang into the global FIA GT3 category. Ford's most recent triumph at the 24 Hours of Le Mans was in 2016 with the Ford GT.

"Ford and Le Mans are bound together by history. And now we're coming back to the most dramatic, most rewarding and most important race in the world. It is not Ford versus Ferrari anymore. It is Ford versus everyone. Going back to Le Mans is the beginning of building a global motorsports business with Mustang, just like we are doing with Bronco and Raptor off-road." Jim Farley, Ford Motor Company CEO

Fresh Branding, New Logo

To coincide with the unveiling, Ford also is revealing new, global Ford Performance branding - a cleaner, simplified look that will now be featured on all its racing vehicles.

This expressive and engaging new identity will help position Ford Performance as a standout lifestyle brand with a sporting mindset. The new Ford Performance mark is easier to integrate across various environments and spaces, including car liveries, merchandise/apparel, display assets, parts/accessories and in advertising.

Continuing Relationships with Two Longtime Partners

Ford Performance extended its relationship with two longtime partners in Multimatic and M-Sport for the basis of this project. Multimatic, builders of the iconic Ford GT, were also involved in the Ford GT race program and will help build and support the Mustang GT3s, while longtime World Rally Championship partner and two-time championship winning team M-Sport will assemble the Ford Performance-developed 5.4-liter Coyote-based V8 engines that power this powerful new pony.

"For a project like the Mustang GT3, we turned to two of our most trusted partners in the motorsports world to help bring this vehicle and program together," said Mark Rushbrook, Global Director, Ford Performance Motorsports. "I know we'll all be as thrilled as Ford fans when Mustang begins racing at the highest levels of GT racing in 2024."

The Ford Mustang GT3 race car features a bespoke short-long arm suspension, rear-mounted transaxle gearbox, carbon fiber body panels, as well as a unique aero package developed to meet GT3 targets.

Proton Competition Becomes First WEC Customer Team for Mustang GT3

Before going to Le Mans in 2024, the Mustang GT3 will compete in various GT3 series across the globe in the hands of customer teams.

The first customer team is Proton Competition. Based in Ehingen, Germany, Proton intends to campaign a pair of Mustang GT3s in the FIA World Endurance Championship, starting in 2024.

"This is a very important program and an exciting moment for our organization," said Proton Competition team principal Christian Ried. "The Mustang is a great brand and this is an important step for our team. We look forward to joining with Ford starting in 2024."

Ford Performance will also field a two-car factory race program with Ford Mustang GT3 in IMSA's GTD Pro class. This will be managed by Multimatic Motorsports and begin at the 2024 Rolex 24 at Daytona.

Ford Performance revealsx the all-new Mustang Dark Horse™ R, offering the most demanding track enthusiasts a turn-key race car ready to compete in the all-new Mustang Challenge spec racing series, just for Mustang Dark Horse R and sanctioned by the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA).

The Ford Mustang Dark Horse R powered by a new, fourth-generation 5.0-liter Coyote V8 is the third Dark Horse-based racing derivative to be unveiled in summer 2023, joining its place alongside the Mustang GT3 and Mustang GT4.

"Mustang Dark Horse R bridges the gap between Dark Horse and Mustang GT3 and GT4," stated Mark Rushbrook, global director, Ford Performance Motorsports. "Production-based Mustang vehicles have raced from the very beginning, all the way back to winning the 1964 Tour de France, even. Dark Horse R offers our passionate customers not just an attainable, factory-built race car, but also a racing series to compete with other Mustang enthusiasts."

With the Ford Mustang Dark Horse joining the herd as the most track-capable 5.0-liter V8 street-legal Mustang ever, Dark Horse R is a natural extension of the capabilities found in every Dark Horse.

"Mustang Dark Horse R has been developed with Mustang racing enthusiasts top of mind," said Jim Owens, Ford Mustang Marketing manager. "Ford Performance leaned into countless areas of expertise developed through years of racing the Mustang and honed in on an aggressive yet approachable package for customers to pick up and play with."

Dark Horse R is designed for track use only, but also shares several components with the road-going version. These include a Flat Rock Assembly Plant-provided body, 500+ horsepower 5.0-liter V8 engine, Tremec 3160 manual transmission, Torsen limited slip differential with 3.73 final drive ratio, aero and Brembo rear brake calipers/rotors. It's also upgraded with a wide array of track-focused equipment.

Leaked one day before its official premiere at Pebble Beach, the Mustang GTD is a wide-bodied pony car with a midship V8 and many other go-faster touches. To debut on August 17, the mid-engine concept was previewed to a handful of select people on August 14 at an event in Las Vegas.
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Why, though? Word has it Ford intends to put said concept into limited production. Wouldn't the Mustang GTD cannibalize sales of the Blue Oval's other mid-engine model? The answer is no, partly because production of the GT ended in the first half of 2023.

A grand total of 18 units were assembled in January followed by a further 12 in February. Chassis number N260 is the final example of the breed, a superb car specified in Antimatter Blue with red brake calipers.

Even if GT production were to continue into the fourth quarter of 2023, nobody would cross-shop a V6-powered supercar against a V8-powered supercar. What's more, the Mustang GTD reportedly features the Coyote V8 engine of the Mustang GT and Mustang Dark Horse. By comparison, the GT uses an EcoBoost V6 derived from the 3.5-liter unit available in the F-150.

Certain enthusiasts believe that the GTD features a front-mid-engine layout rather than a rear-mid-engine layout. Said enthusiasts may be on to something, more so after you notice the vents (a.k.a. heat extractors) in the hood. As for the air ducts in the rear fenders, those may be for cooling the rear brakes. Pictured on what appears to be Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R rubber, the concept further sweetens the deal with red-painted brake calipers and a set of intricate-looking wheels.

A ginormous rear wing and a similarly huge aerodynamic diffuser pretty much seal the deal. No photos of the interior have been leaked thus far, and based on the heavily tinted windows, there may not be an interior at all, which is only natural for a concept car.

Multimatic, the Canadian outfit that built the GT on Ford's behalf, is rumored to be tasked with making the GTD. If the rumor proves to be true, then expect a different platform from the front-engined Mustang.

If it were based on the S650, the Ford Motor Company would manufacture the GTD on the same assembly line as the S650. As you're well aware, Flat Rock is the Mustang's home since the S197 rolled out in 2004.

Last, but certainly not least, should the C8 be worried? If you ask me, I'd say no. The GTD's production version will obviously incorporate a lot of carbon fiber, which would put the GTD in a different price bracket from the Corvette. Think $200k at the very least, not $100k and change for the Z06 or E-Ray.

That being said, what's your take on the soon-to-be-revealed GTD? While it may be a great addition to Ford's lineup, is it actually worthy of the Mustang badge?

Deep inside a metal storage garage hidden behind a wind tunnel building in Allen Park, Mich., a handful of team members gathered in 2021 for a new, after-hours mission that on paper felt like an impossible dream: design a Mustang to take on the best of European sports cars.

The result is a limited-edition, ultra high-performance street legal performance car with the soul of a Mustang.

The all-new 2025 Ford Mustang® GTD, a technological tour de force inspired by the Mustang GT3 slated to race in Le Mans in 2024. Unapologetic in its heritage, unbelievable in its performance, its sculpted mostly carbon fiber wide body and looming rear wing says everything in just a glance. This is like no Mustang ever.

"Mustang GTD shatters every preconceived notion of a supercar," said Jim Farley, Ford president and CEO. "This is a new approach for us. We didn't engineer a road car for the track, we created a race car for the road. Mustang GTD takes racing technology from our Mustang GT3 race car, wraps it in a carbon fiber Mustang body and unleashes it for the street."

Every precision part of the Ford Mustang GTD is purposefully designed. Every form is driven by function. It is designed to do one thing: Go faster around a track with more technology than the race cars it's based on. Mustang GTD was developed by many of the same people behind Ford's Mustang race cars and the Le Mans-winning GT. It's built to be the quickest roadgoing Mustang ever.

Ford Mustang GTD is planted to the tarmac by astounding downforce from available active aerodynamics and enormous grip from huge tires mounted to an advanced dual ride height short-long arm front and multi-link rear suspension. It stops with authority thanks to carbon ceramic brakes, includes a rear-mounted 8-speed dual-clutch transaxle and lightweight carbon fiber driveshaft for near 50/50 weight distribution. And everything is driven with wicked speed by a symphonic supercharged 5.2-liter V8 targeting and estimated 800 horsepower.

"We obsessed about the racing technology under its skin. What makes it go is even more compelling than what you can see when it passes you by," said Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsports. "When you look at the engineering, the aerodynamics, how the powertrain works, the Mustang GTD is a rocketship for the road."

Keeping the Le Mans-winning legacy going

The Ford Mustang GTD was born from the concept of the Mustang GT3 race car returning to Le Mans in 2024 and will be the pinnacle of the Mustang family that now includes both street-legal and track-only race cars. This family includes the recently revealed Mustang GT4, the Mustang GT3, as well as the upcoming Mustang Dark Horse R spec racer and more. All will carry on the standing of Mustang as Ford's most raced and most successful nameplate and will prowl streets and tracks all around the globe. The GTD name for this newest Mustang refers to the IMSA "GTD" racing class for cars that are built to FIA GT3 technical regulations.

"This is our company, we're throwing down the gauntlet and saying, 'Come and get it,'" said Farley. "We're comfortable putting everybody else on notice. I'll take track time in a Mustang GTD against any other auto boss in their best road car."

Designed and engineered as a collaboration between Ford and Multimatic, which developed the Mustang GT3, Mustang GT4, and Le Mans-winning Ford GT, the Mustang GTD represents the culmination of decades of engineering advancement borne from continuous learning through racing. Crafted with intent and precision, it's destined to become an iconic part of Mustang and Ford history.

"Mustang GTD represents the very best of Ford Motor Company and what our team needs to do every day," said Farley. "This is what happens when we take what we're good at and push the boundaries to see where the bubble stops. It represents the essence of the transformation we're going through at Ford, from software to special edition cars."

Chiseled to Exploit the Air

The Ford Mustang GTD design is pure purpose. Every line drives aerodynamic performance at track speed, from the front splitter, vented hood and fenders to the available C-pillar mounted hydraulically controlled active rear wing.

Ford Mustang GTD takes advantage of the extensive use of carbon fiber body panels to reduce weight, lower center of gravity and improve responsiveness. The fenders, hood, cover that replaces the trunk lid, door sills, front splitter, rear diffuser and roof are all carbon fiber with optional carbon fiber front and rear fascias.

An available aero package that includes a comprehensive underbody aerodynamic tray is also executed in carbon fiber and includes features pioneered in motorsports racing, as well as some technology that would be illegal in racing, such as hydraulically controlled front flaps to manage airflow for aerodynamic balance in coordination with the active rear wing.

Where there once was a trunk is now the semi-active suspension, a hydraulic control system, and a transaxle cooling system that uses a race-inspired cover that replaces the trunk lid and includes two air scoops to funnel air off the back glass into the area and through the heat exchangers.

"Our design team worked in conjunction with the Mustang GT3 design team and the aero team, sharing solutions between race car and road car, and vice versa," said Anthony Colard, Ford Performance design manager, "This is an aerodynamics-driven design."

The combination of purposefully designed aerodynamic features will result in massive downforce balanced across both front and rear axles and will in turn drive corner speeds up, produce consistent control and incredible lap times at some of the world's most hellish tracks.

Extreme Performance and Technology

"The hardware has been carefully selected and developed to enable blistering lap time performance," said Greg Goodall, Ford chief program engineer, "The target for this project was clear - go much, much faster than we've ever gone before with a targeted sub-7-minute Nürburgring time. This makes it the fastest roadgoing Mustang ever from Ford."

Ford Mustang GTD utilizes a purpose-developed supercharged 5.2-liter V8 with dual air inlets and the first dry-sump engine oil system fitted to a roadgoing Mustang to help keep the engine lubricated during sustained and demanding cornering. The engine's more than 7,500 rpm redline generates exceptional notes through the available titanium active valve exhaust system. It's the highest horsepower street-legal Mustang ever developed by Ford.

All of that power is sent from the engine to the rear wheels through a carbon fiber driveshaft connected to an 8-speed rear transaxle for near 50/50 weight distribution between the front and rear. Lap time drive simulations and powertrain dyno testing led to the selection of the powertrain and transaxle architecture to put power to the ground.

The Ford Mustang GTD's exceptional performance is further enhanced by a state-of-the-art semi-active suspension that can vary both spring rates and ride height. The adaptive spool valve damper technology with hydraulically actuated dual spring rate and height suspension provides two unique states which enhance on-road and on-track performance independently. The suspension settings allows for nearly 40 mm lower ride height in Track Mode and overall has a nearly four inches wider track than the Mustang GT.

A short-long arm front suspension provides enhanced lateral stiffness and improved kinematics especially in high-G cornering. The rear suspension features an integral link pushrod and rocker arm architecture where the inboard Adaptive Spool Valve shock absorbers and coil over springs are arranged in a horizontal cross pattern and integrated with a strong, stiff, and weight-efficient motorsport-style tubular subframe. The unique architecture creates a motion ratio from pushrod to damper of 1:1 so the car responds precisely to track conditions.

"We are extremely proud of our work on the Mustang GTD," said Larry Holt, Executive Vice President, Multimatic Special Vehicle Operations. "It showcases our state-of-the-art DSSV spool valve suspension technology, with features not even allowed in racing. The Mustang GTD sets a new benchmark for roadgoing racers, and we can't wait for clients to experience the thrill of driving it."

Road grip and cornering stability for the Mustang GTD come from 325 millimeter in width front tires - as wide as the rear tires of Ford GT - while the rear are 345 millimeters, these are mounted on 20-inch forged aluminum wheels or available forged magnesium wheels. The magnesium wheels offer the ideal combination of weight and durability and with a similar design to the Mustang GT3 race car.

Behind those wheels are massive BremboTM carbon ceramic brakes, which are optimized for heat rejection leading to harder, more consistent stopping further into the braking zone. Rear brake heat is shed with the aid of cooling ducts mounted below the rear suspension.

Mustang GTD features technology new to Ford with Variable Traction Control in track mode. This allows the driver to push the limits of the car by modulating engine output and traction control intrusiveness. Adjustments can be made without taking hands off the wheel, allowing the driver to match track conditions to their driving ability.

Embracing the future of automotive technology, the Ford Mustang GTD utilizes an advanced electrical architecture leveraged from the new seventh-generation Mustang, helping to offer seamless connectivity, a myriad of personalized driving modes, and over-the-air software updates.

These technologies work in perfect harmony, designed for unparalleled handling and control. Whether mastering track after track or driving some of the world's best roads, the Mustang GTD will offer an exhilarating and dynamic driving experience.

Cabin Space

The cockpit features are finished in premium materials including Miko suede paired with leather and carbon fiber, while digital displays keep drivers engaged and in full command. RECARO® seats optimized for track days are complemented by available 3D-printed titanium paddle shifters, rotary dial shifter and serial plate, all made from retired Lockheed Martin F-22 titanium parts. The rear seating area has been removed to reduce weight and provide cargo space.

Ford Mustang GTD will be available with multiple interior color combinations and in several special option packages that take the exterior to another level. The car can also be ordered in any color, even color-matched to a customer-provided sample. These customizable options allow buyers to personalize their example should they choose to make it entirely unique.

The end result is an unmistakable presence, as close to a race-ready Mustang GT3 for the street as possible.

Production of Mustang GTD will be limited, and pricing is expected to begin at approximately $300,000 MSRP. It will start life at the Ford Flat Rock Assembly Plant and then be transported to Multimatic facilities in Markham, Canada, where it will be handcrafted for racing-inspired precision by the Ford Performance and Multimatic teams. Mustang GTD will be available in late 2024, early 2025.

Standing out on the road has been a hallmark of the Ford Mustang® experience for 59 years. And now, as Mustang prepares to celebrate its 60th anniversary, Ford is putting a modern, vibrant spin on the popular California Special®.

"The original California Special package was geared toward California's optimistic and carefree driving culture. We're refocusing on those elements for the 2024 Mustang GT California Special, which brings vibrant style that looks as at home on Colorado Boulevard as it does on the Pacific Coast Highway," said Mustang Brand Manager Joe Bellino. "Rave Blue is such a distinct and exciting color, it really does make the California Special stand out not only from other Mustang models, but from previous California Special models."

The California Special package features eye-catching Rave Blue details. The signature color appears on the nostril intakes, which flank a new horizontal-slat grille complete with low gloss black strakes. The headlights are surrounded by black bezels while Ford Mustang GT California Special-specific graphics in Medium Light Rave Blue and High- and Low-Gloss Black appear on the lower body sides.

The California Special package is available with two 19.0-inch wheel options. The standard Carbonized Gray wheels have a GT/CS pad-printed logo in Rave Blue, while the optional Performance Pack wheel combines a machined face with Rave Blue pockets. The 5.0-liter engine badge on the front fenders and the GT badge at the back add Rave Blue outlines to black centers - like the GT Performance Package, there is a Performance Pack-specific badge. The GT/CS badge in the grille is also finished in Rave Blue.

Blue accents are prominent throughout the California Special package's interior, where perforated Navy Pier upholstery and Ebony Black leather covers the seats. Further elevating its style is dual-color contrast stitching with Raptor Blue and Metal Gray threads that extend to the dash and doors. The same stitching is also available for the steering wheel and center console. A California Special IP badge and GT/CS floor mats round out the interior changes.

"Mustang has a rich well of special edition models to draw from, and we'll continue to reinvent them for a new audience," Bellino said. "From the track-ready Dark Horse to the world-beating Mustang GTD, Ford is elevating the Mustang for all audiences. The new, modern Mustang GT California Special is a perfect example of our drive to build a Mustang for every customer."

The California Special package adds $1,995 to the price of a Ford Mustang GT Premium and is available in Coupe and Convertible body styles with either the six-speed manual gearbox or the optional 10-speed automatic transmission.

Sixty years and seven generations after the Ford Mustang debuted at the 1964 New York World's Fair, Ford is celebrating the heritage of one of the most iconic vehicles in automotive history with a limited-edition Mustang 60th Anniversary package.

"We took inspiration from the original Mustang and applied some of the most special design elements to the latest in this limited production run," said Matt Simpson, Ford Enthusiast Vehicles general manager. "Mustang's design DNA has never been stronger or more enduring than this multi-generational tribute."

The Ford Mustang 60th Anniversary package is only available for the GT Premium with 5.0-liter V8 and will be available on both coupe and convertible models with either manual or automatic transmissions.

Building upon the iconic design cues that have defined the Mustang, it features a unique dash plaque and exclusive exterior features that create a special look and feel that brings classic accents of the original car that debuted in 1964 into the modern era.

"The design was directly inspired by the clean silhouette of the original car," said Stefan Taylor, senior designer. "During the design process, we looked closely at the finely detailed elements of the 1965 Mustang, like the fender badges and wheel center caps. Our focus was capturing the feel of the '65, while also staying true to the Mustang as the modern sports car that it is."

Key features of the Ford Mustang 60th Anniversary Package include:

• Exclusive 60th Anniversary badges on the fenders and trunk lid are a modern take on the 1965 Mustang cloisonné badges
• Unique 20-inch wheels finished in Dark Gravity Gray with bright machined details featuring a Vermillion Red, retro-themed stamped aluminum center cap inspired by the 1965 Mustang center caps
• Exclusive side graphics which can be optioned in either Iconic Silver or Vermillion Red and are reminiscent of Mustang's original rocker panel stripes
• New grille with a unique mesh design as a callback to the 1964 original made modern with silver-accented nostrils that are also functional air intakes for the 5.0-liter V8
• Smoked housing of standard Mustang Nite Pony headlights allows silver-accented nostrils to stand out
• Available in classic Wimbledon White, modern Race Red and Vapor Blue colors
• Iconic Silver mirror caps on Race Red, Vapor Blue cars callback to chrome mirrors of old, while Wimbledon White cars adopt body-color mirror caps
• Serialized 60th Anniversary instrument panel badge
• Interior colors available in Space Gray, Carmine Red or Black Onyx

The Ford Mustang 60th Anniversary Package is a limited-production model, with only 1,965 being made available as a nod to the official first model year of the car. The Ford Mustang 60th Anniversary Package will be available to order in summer 2024 and is set to hit US dealerships in Q4 2024.