The Mustang GTD is not just another step up in the Mustang lineup. It is a street legal machine built with race car DNA, carrying technology and engineering far beyond what most owners have ever experienced. That means Ford is giving GTD customers very specific guidance, some of which sounds more like instructions for a supercar than a muscle car. From curing times to track use to ownership rules, GTD buyers receive a set of expectations designed to protect the car, maximize performance and avoid early mistakes. Here is the expanded look at the advice Ford wants every GTD owner to follow.
Give the Car Time Before You Drive It Hard
One of the most unusual pieces of advice Ford gives new GTD owners is to avoid driving the car or applying protective film for the first month. The carbon fibre bodywork and finishes need time to complete their curing process, and rushing that window increases the risk of small defects or surface issues. In a car built with this much composite material, patience matters. Owners are encouraged to let the car sit, even though the temptation to unleash it on day one is enormous. It is a reminder that the GTD sits closer to a hand crafted race car than a typical production Mustang.
Learn the Track Inspired Systems Before Pushing Limits
The GTD carries hardware inherited from Ford’s racing programs, including advanced suspension, active aerodynamic components and a rear mounted transaxle for near perfect weight distribution. Ford encourages owners to study the different drive modes, especially Track Mode, which alters ride height, stiffness and aero behaviour. This is a car that changes personality dramatically depending on setup. Understanding those changes before pushing the throttle ensures drivers stay in control rather than surprised by the GTD’s enormous capability. It is not a car meant to be mastered in one afternoon.
Warm Up the GTD Properly Before Performance Driving
Although Ford does not mandate a specific procedure, the company strongly suggests that owners adopt a dedicated warm up routine before spirited driving. The GTD uses a dry sump oiling system, high temperature fluids and complex cooling channels that all function best once everything reaches stable operating conditions. Cold running reduces performance and increases mechanical stress. Owners are encouraged to treat the GTD like the endurance inspired machine it is, letting it warm gradually and cool down properly after fast laps or mountain runs.
Expect a High Touch Ownership Experience
Unlike ordinary Mustang buyers, GTD customers receive a personal delivery process where specialists explain the car’s technical features, show how to adjust systems and give guidance on long term care. This continues after delivery with access to factory support for track setup questions or performance tuning advice. Ford wants GTD drivers to use the car fully, but safely. This emphasis on owner preparation underscores how far the GTD sits above even the Shelby GT500 in complexity.
Follow the Mandatory Two Year Ownership Rule
To prevent speculators from flipping early production cars at inflated prices, Ford requires owners to keep their GTD for at least two years before selling. This is a strategy found in limited production exotic cars and reflects how rare and high demand the GTD will be. It also means buyers must approach ownership with long term commitment rather than viewing it as a short term investment. Ford wants genuine enthusiasts behind the wheel, not auction house opportunists.
Understand the GTD’s Advanced Performance Technology
The GTD is far removed from the simple front engine layout most Mustangs share. Its transaxle, carbon fibre components, functional aero and semi active suspension require a level of understanding that most owners have never needed before. Ford encourages customers to familiarize themselves with how downforce develops, how the front dive planes contribute to stability and how suspension adjustments change the car’s behaviour. Knowing how these systems interact transforms the GTD from intimidating to intuitive.
Stick with the Correct Tires and Brake Components
Ford advises GTD owners to use the factory specified Michelin performance tires and the proper brake compounds designed for its downforce and speed. Swapping in cheaper tires or incorrect pads can negatively affect braking distances, cornering balance and high speed stability. This is not a car that tolerates mismatched parts well. The GTD’s engineering team selected the components for a reason, and owners are urged to trust those choices.
Participate in Performance Driver Training
Given the GTD’s power, aero and grip levels, Ford strongly recommends that owners attend advanced driving instruction. The car is capable of supercar speeds and cornering forces that can overwhelm inexperienced drivers. Learning proper lines, braking techniques and load management turns the GTD from a potential risk into a thrilling and safe high performance tool. Ford treats the GTD as a car meant to be driven hard, but only by those willing to respect the learning curve.
Treat It as Both a Beast and a Collectible
The GTD is built to tear through tracks with ferocity, yet Ford also frames it as a long term collectible for serious enthusiasts. Owners are encouraged to store it carefully, maintain it meticulously and protect its carbon bodywork from unnecessary wear. Between the limited production run, advanced construction and long waitlists, the GTD will likely hold significance for decades. Proper storage, careful detailing and mindful use will preserve its value and performance.
Respect Its Dual Identity as a Road Car and Track Weapon
The GTD is equally capable of lapping circuits at astonishing speeds and cruising public roads calmly. Ford wants owners to understand both sides of that personality. Drivers who explore the GTD’s full potential on track days will appreciate how deeply engineered the car is, while those who cruise quietly will enjoy its refinement and control. Treating it as both a tool and a treasure is the message Ford keeps reinforcing.
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