Ford Mustang GTD Claims Fastest Nurburgring Lap for an American Production Car
The Ford Mustang GTD has just thrown down the gauntlet, setting a blistering 6:57.685 lap time around the Nurburgring Nordschleife and claiming the title of fastest American production car to ever conquer the legendary German circuit.
This is a major coup for the Blue Oval, proving that a homegrown muscle car can not only hang with, but outperform some of Europe's finest supercars on their own turf.
This incredible feat, achieved by Multimatic Motorsports driver Dirk Müller, comes despite less-than-ideal track conditions during the record attempt. Imagine what this beast could do with a dry track!
The GTD's sub-7-minute lap time, a goal set by Ford CEO Jim Farley himself, puts it ahead of serious contenders like the pre-facelift Porsche 992 GT3.
While it still has some ground to cover to catch the Porsche 992 GT3 RS (6:49.328) and the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series (6:48.047), this is a massive achievement for American performance engineering.
Under the hood lurks the most powerful engine ever fitted to a production Mustang: a supercharged 5.2-litre V8 churning out a monstrous 608 kW. This track-focused weapon also boasts active aerodynamics integrated into its carbon fiber bodywork, semi-active suspension to tackle any corner, and carbon-ceramic brakes for fade-free stopping power. Think of it as a Mustang that's gone to gym and gotten a serious PhD in physics.
The record-breaking GTD was fitted with the optional Performance Pack, which includes lightweight 20-inch magnesium wheels and other weight-saving measures. This not only sheds kilos but also improves aerodynamic efficiency and handling, making the GTD a true apex predator.
Despite this victory, the folks at Ford are already talking about going back to the 'Ring to shave even more time off the clock. In their "Road to the Ring" documentary, engineers and drivers expressed confidence that the Mustang GTD still has untapped potential.
With improved conditions, fine-tuning, and the data gathered from this first record run, Ford is aiming to climb even higher on the leaderboard.
While the GTD might not be hitting Mzansi shores anytime soon (and if it does, expect a hefty price tag!), this achievement is a testament to the capabilities of American performance engineering. It shows that with the right combination of power, technology, and a touch of good ol' American muscle, anything is possible.
This record-breaking lap is sure to inspire a new generation of performance enthusiasts and engineers, both here in South Africa and around the world. Who knows, maybe one day we'll see a proudly South African car taking on the Green Hell and making its own mark on automotive history.
For now, we can all revel in the glory of the Mustang GTD's achievement. It's a win for Ford, a win for America, and a win for petrolheads everywhere.
