Old-time Mustang fans might find the GT-R's styling a bit too import-oriented, but that's OK as the blue oval brand has already shown more classic examples to woo the boomers. This one, however, is intended to
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| Old-time Mustang fans might find the GT-R's styling a bit too import-oriented, but a trip around the racetrack should help them understand the added components are just as much for go as they are for show. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada) |
The GT-R, on paper at least, seems to be the ultimate Mustang. The car, which is to be officially unveiled at the New York auto show this week, loses the 4.6-liter production V8 in favor of Ford's new "Cammer" high-performance 5.0-liter aluminum V8. Featuring four-valves per cylinder and dual overhead camshafts, this "crate engine" develops "roughly" 440 horsepower at a screaming 7,000 rpm, and 400 lb-ft (542 Nm) of maximum torque.
Power goes through a racing-spec six-speed manual gearbox before being sent out the rear differential to 315/30R20
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| Ready for the track, the GT-R's interior gets proper racing seats, a steel roll cage and window webbing. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada) |
Making use of the grippy rubber while countering the massive output levels are powerful brakes with 6-piston calipers clamping down on 370 mm discs up front and four-piston calipers that bite down on 335 mm discs in back.
Featuring a similar attitude and appearance as a late 1960s SCCA Trans-Am racer, the Mustang GT-R is a concept car that's ready for the track. The regular Mustang body is transformed with new fenders and panels, plus massive bulges to accommodate the larger wheels and tires. Side-exit exhaust tips poke out from in front of the car's rear wheel wells, while the bulged hood, complicated rear diffuser and rear spoiler are crafted from carbon fiber.