Find out how Ford's flagship Mustang out muscle Porsche's definitive track weapon? Find out in this in-depth head-to-head
by Amrit Balraj on June 15, 2024, 10:00Forget everything you know about the Ford Mustang. From pony car to supercar, the GTD represents a new milestone for the blue oval brand. The most powerful Mustang ever made is engineered to intimidate supercars. The GTD is a track weapon and consequently comes with a carbon fiber widebody, advanced aerodynamics kit, and Brembo carbon ceramic brakes. Its first-of-its-kind suspension developed by Multimatic seamlessly adapts to road or track conditions, dynamically adjusting for peak performance.
The GT3 RS is also a highly capable machine in its own right. It is a track-focused evolution of the iconic 911 range. Its history stretches back to the 996 generation, with each iteration since pushing performance boundaries. Lightweight, carbon fiber-reinforced plastic(CFRP) hood, roof, aggressive aerodynamics, and a massive DRS-equipped keep weight down and generate downforce for exceptional handling.
Both Track-Bred Cars Offer Different Experiences In Performance
Both models sit at the top of the food chain for their respective model lineups and are track-derived machines that have been over-engineered to offer scorching performance. The GTD sheds pounds with several carbon fiber components which include fenders, hood, trunk, and more. You can also add an optional carbon fiber dashboard to complete the aggressive, lightweight package.
Porsche offers three versions of the 911 GT3s: the base model, a Touring variant with a subtler wing, and the king of the hill- the GT3 RS. The RS steals the show with its stripped-down aggression.
Ford Mustang GTD | Porsche 911 GT3 RS | |
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External Features | Boasts a sculpted design with a functional hood vent and aggressive front splitter. Standard carbon fiber throughout (body, driveshaft, optional underbody tray) sheds pounds for a lighter, more responsive GTD and enhances aerodynamics for a true head-turning, track-ready look. | A massive swan-neck rear wing with DRS functionality provides downforce, while vented fenders, a front splitter, and a diffuser optimize airflow. Lightweight materials like carbon fiber for the hood, roof, and wing further reduce weight, and available magnesium wheels complete the performance-focused look. |
Internal Features | Recaro racing seats hug you tight, and a carbon fiber-trimmed steering wheel puts control at your fingertips. A large 12.4”-inch digital instrument cluster relays vital data, while a large 13.2” central touchscreen keeps you connected. The eye-popping graphical display is powered by the Unreal gaming engine. | Full bucket seats with carbon fiber shells keep you planted during hard cornering. A stripped-down dashboard emphasizes essential gauges, with a track screen displaying real-time data at the driver’s fingertips. A lightweight steering wheel and a premium sound system (optional) ensure a thrilling yet comfortable driving experience. |
Options | The Mustang GTD offers a Carbon Series that shows off its carbon fiber construction with exposed parts. Painted stripes are optional. A new Performance Package adds a more aggressive front fascia, underbody upgrades, and a rear wing with drag reduction. It also includes a Lightweight Package with less sound deadening and forged magnesium wheels. | The optional Weissach Package cuts weight with a carbon fiber hood, roof, and anti-roll bars, plus lighter trim. It adds racing touches like a center-lock wheel option, DRS wing, and rear-axle steering, while still offering some comfort features like navigation and a Bose sound system. |
Ground Clearance | 5.3-Inches | 3.9-Inches |
Tires | Front 275/35 R20 Rear 335/30 R21 | Front 325 MM Rear 345 MM |
Ford Mustang GTD vs. Porsche 911 GT3 RS: Performance Numbers Compared
Under the hood, both cars possess distinct personalities. The Mustang GTD packs a monstrous 5.2L supercharged V8, that put out a 800 horsepower. The Porsche 911 GT3 RS counters with a naturally-aspirated 4.0L flat-six engine, generating a refined 518 horsepower. While the Mustang throws down raw muscle, the Porsche prioritizes a high-revving (9,000 RPM redline) experience that translates to a thrilling scream. The GTD’s estimated 0-60 mph time is still under wraps, but expect a sub-4.0-second time to rival the GT3 RS’s impressive 3.2-second dash to 60 mph. Both achieve lightning-fast gear changes: the GTD ships with an 8-speed dual-clutch and the GT3 RS with a 7-speed PDK dual-clutch.
When it comes to handling, the two cars offer diverging philosophies. The GTD focuses on raw power imparted through a lightweight carbon fiber driveshaft linked to an 8-speed rear transaxle, which helps it achieve a near 50/50 weight distribution for a thrilling, well-balanced driving experience. The GT3 RS meanwhile with its rear-engine layout has a 40/60 weight distribution and prioritizes razor-sharp agility and precision on the track, demanding a more nuanced driving style. The GTD’s secret weapon? A groundbreaking semi-active suspension.
It not only adjusts ride height by nearly 1.57 inches (40mm) in Track Mode for improved aerodynamics but also dynamically changes spring rates for optimal performance on both road and track. compared to the standard Mustang, the GTD’s exceptional handling, and stability come courtesy of the high-tech system, and a wider track. The GT3 RS counters with extensive use of lightweight materials like carbon fiber throughout and a massive DRS-equipped rear wing for superior downforce, allowing it to hug the corners at high speeds. The RS is capable of producing three times the downforce of a standard GT3 at 1,895 pounds at 177 mph. Ford hasn’t disclosed the downforce figures for the Mustang GTD, but a Multimatic spokesperson has confirmed to Car & Driver that it will be more that the 911 GT3 RS at 150 MPH.
Ford Mustang GTD | Porsche 911 GT3 RS | |
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Engine | 5.2-liter supercharged V8 | 4.0-liter NA flat-six |
Horsepower | 800 horsepower | 518 horsepower |
Torque | 550 lb-ft | 343 lb-ft |
Transmission | 8-speed dual-clutch transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (PDK) |
Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
0-60 MPH | NA | 3.3 seconds |
Top Speed | 190+ MPH (Estimated) | 184 MPH |
Weight | 3,800 (EST) | 3,268 lbs |
Weight Savings | 200 - 250 lbs (EST) | 150 - 200 lbs (EST) |
Starting MSRP | $325,000 | $241,300 |
In the end, the choice boils down to your driving style and price. Both cars feature active aerodynamics and are essentially track-cars that work on the road. The Mustang GTD is more expensive, but it has close to 300 more horsepower over the 911 GT3 RS and is a force to be reckoned. It’s perfect for drivers who crave a more visceral driving experience. The Porsche 911 GT3 RS meanwhile is a more refined track weapon with German sensibilities, demanding precision for the fastest lap times. It caters to drivers who value laser-sharp handling and a connected feel with the car. All that’s left now is to see how quickly the Mustang GTD can get around Nürburgring. Watch this space.
Amrit Balraj
When not reading up or watching videos about obscure and rare automobiles, Amrit spends his free time planning imaginary road trips on some of the best driving roads in the world, preferably in an old truck with a motorcycle strapped to the bed. Read full bio