Ford Surprises the Muscle Car Faithful with Import-Style Mustang GT-R

Power goes through a racing-spec six-speed manual gearbox before being sent out the rear differential to 315/30R20

Is the GT-R the ultimate Mustang? Ford's new 440-hp "Cammer" high-performance 5.0-liter aluminum V8 engine makes it look that way. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada)

performance tires (275/35R20s up front) on 20-inch alloy wheels.

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. Race-style headlamps fill in the housings for the normal

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)

units. Finally the car is finished off in a jaw-dropping yellow. With the front grille mostly removed, a brawny radiator is in clear view further advertising the GT-R's down to business attitude.

On the inside, the Mustang GT-R gets proper racing seats, a steel roll cage and window webbing, reflecting the glory days of the Mustang's past.

Those interested in the GT-R will be glad to know that the motor is available from Ford Racing for USD$14,995, as are the other add-on parts. Those a little more patient might eventually find it under the hood of a future production Cobra.