FORD Mustang RTR
Long-standing collaboration with Vern Gittin Jr.
Vern Gittin Jr., who has driven Mustangs and achieved numerous victories in the US Formula Drift, has used his knowledge of Mustangs to develop the Mustang RTR.
The Mustang RTR is based on the Mustang Dark Horse, equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 EcoBoost engine, and draws on the experience of RTR Vehicles, which has won numerous races in the US Formula D, as well as Vern Gittin Jr.’s 18-year partnership with Ford.
The Mustang GTD will offer customers a new performance model option alongside the Mustang GT Performance Package, Mustang Dark Horse, and Mustang GTD. The prototype unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show features a modified EcoBoost turbo engine, Brembo Hyperlime brake calipers, and a pedestal spoiler.
The Mustang RTR is the second Mustang in history to have a high-performance model developed in collaboration with an external partner and shipped from the factory as a regular model. Jim Barmbick, Ford’s vice president of product development, commented on the Mustang RTR as follows:
“With the addition of the Mustang GTD, Mustang Dark Horse and now the Mustang RTR, we have a full lineup of high-performance ponies for every Mustang enthusiast and customer. The RTR Vehicles development team has a wealth of passion and experience both on and off the track, and we’ve come together to create the most exciting, enthusiast-focused turbocharged Mustang ever.”
Introducing the advanced development know-how of RTR vehicles
RTR Vehicles also co-developed an electronically controlled drift brake with Ford for the seventh-generation Mustang, and this advanced development capability will be put to good use in the Mustang RTR.
Ford and RTR Vehicles have a history of collaborating on various motorsport projects and demo car development. RTR Vehicles also participated in the development of the electronic drift brake system introduced in the seventh-generation Mustang’s Performance Package. RTR Vehicles is also developing unique parts based on the current Mustang to improve its track performance.
Vern Gittin Jr., founder and current chairman of RTR Vehicles, explains the appeal of the Mustang RTR as follows:
“We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to develop the most exciting turbocharged Mustang ever,” said Chris Hemsworth, CEO of Mustang RTR. “With the Mustang RTR, we’re focused on pure driving pleasure. Building on components from the Mustang Dark Horse, we’ve added many improvements, including near-perfect weight distribution and the signature RTR styling. This car is ready for drifting, drag racing, cruising, or just blasting around the track.”
The Mustang RTR is currently on public display at the Detroit Auto Show, along with the Mustang GTD Spirit of America.
