If you've ever dreamed of racing a Ford Mustang on the track, but don't have the budget or the skills to compete in the top-tier GT3 class, then you might want to check out the new Ford Mustang GT4. This entry-level race car is based on the 2024 Mustang Dark Horse coupe, and it's designed to meet the SRO GT4 regulations that are popular in various series around the world. The Ford Mustang GT4 is not street-legal and cheap but offers a more accessible and affordable way to experience the thrill of racing a Mustang.
What Makes the Ford Mustang GT4 Special?
The 2024 Ford Mustang GT4 is powered by a Coyote-based, naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine that produces around 500 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. The engine is developed and assembled in-house by Ford Performance, and it features a dry sump oil system, a custom intake manifold, and a Motec engine management system. The power is sent to the rear wheels via a Holinger six-speed sequential gearbox with paddle shifters and pneumatic actuation. The car also has a limited-slip differential, a carbon-fiber driveshaft, and a racing clutch.
The Ford Mustang GT4 has a lightweight body that uses natural fiber composite panels for the hood, doors, fenders, and trunk lid. The race car also has a unique aerodynamic package, including a front splitter, canards, side skirts, rear diffuser, and large rear wing. The car rides on 18-inch forged alloy wheels wrapped in Pirelli racing tires, and it has Brembo brakes with six-piston calipers at the front and four-piston calipers at the rear. The suspension system consists of Multimatic DSSV dampers, adjustable anti-roll bars, and camber plates.
The interior of the Ford Mustang GT4 is stripped down to the essentials for racing. The race car has a roll cage, a fire suppression system, an electrical kill switch, and a Recaro racing seat with a six-point harness. The race car also has a MoTeC digital dash display, a Cosworth data logger, and a Sparco steering wheel with various controls.
How Much Does the Ford Mustang GT4 Cost?
The Ford Mustang GT4 is not available for everyone. The car is very limited in production, and only qualified customers can purchase one. Ford does not disclose the exact price of the car, but it's estimated to be around $250,000. That's still much cheaper than the Ford Mustang GT3, which costs around $500,000 and requires more maintenance and support.
The Ford Mustang GT4 is built by Multimatic, a longtime partner of Ford Performance that also produces the Ford GT supercar and the Ford Bronco R race truck. Multimatic also handles the sales and service of the Ford Mustang GT4, and interested buyers can contact them through their website.
When Will the Ford Mustang GT4 Race?
The Ford Mustang GT4 will make its racing debut in 2024, competing in various SRO GT4 series around the world. The car will face rivals from other brands such as Aston Martin, Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, McLaren, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Toyota.
The Ford Mustang GT4 is not the only new race car from Ford Performance. The company also unveiled the Ford Mustang GT3, which will race in the top-tier GT3 class in 2024. The GT3 car is based on the 2024 Mustang Mach 1 coupe, and it has a Coyote-based 5.4-liter V8 engine that makes over 600 horsepower. The car will compete in prestigious events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, and the FIA World Endurance Championship.
Ford Performance also plans to launch two more track-only versions of the Mustang in 2024: the Dark Horse S and the Dark Horse R. These cars are aimed at weekend track enthusiasts who want to enjoy their Mustangs on closed circuits. The Dark Horse S is essentially a stripped-down version of the road-going Dark Horse coupe, with safety features such as a roll cage, window nets, electrical disconnects, and a fire suppression system. The Dark Horse R goes a step further with seam welding, a fuel cell, and Ford Performance Parts wheels.
Why Should You Care About the Ford Mustang GT4?
The Ford Mustang GT4 is an exciting addition to the racing scene for both drivers and fans. For drivers who want to race a Mustang on the track without breaking the bank or needing extensive support, the 2024 Ford Mustang GT4 offers an attractive option that combines performance, reliability, and affordability. For fans who love to watch exciting races with diverse cars and close battles, the Ford Mustang GT4 adds another contender to the mix that can challenge established brands and models.
The 2024 Ford Mustang GT4 is also a testament to the engineering and design capabilities of Ford Performance and Multimatic. The car showcases the potential of the Coyote engine, the Dark Horse platform, and the natural fiber composite materials. The car also demonstrates the passion and commitment of Ford Performance to racing and motorsports, as well as to the Mustang legacy.
The Ford Mustang GT4 is more than just a race car. It's a dream come true for many Mustang enthusiasts who want to see their favorite car on the track. It's also a way for Ford Performance to connect with its customers and fans and to share its vision and values. The Ford Mustang GT4 is a car that makes you want to race like a pro.
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