The Corvette ZR1 and the Ford Mustang GTD are two different beasts, but we’re asking our readers which they prefer
Ford and Chevrolet are preparing to launch high-performance sports cars with more than 800 horsepower.
The Corvette ZR1 is the more powerful of the two as it is predicted to have 1,064 horsepower.
The ZR1 could also be significantly cheaper as the GTD is expected to cost around $325,000.
The GTD moniker on the latest Mustang makes it sound like a diesel, and that fits with yesterday’s Corvette ZR1 reveal. Priced at $325,000, the model already seemed like a questionable value, and it is even more so now.
As you no doubt know, the Corvette ZR1 features a twin-turbo 5.5-liter flat-crank V8 that produces 1,064 horsepower (793 kW / 1,079 PS) and 828 lb-ft (1,121 Nm) of torque. It is mated to an upgraded eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, which sends power to the rear wheels. Chevrolet officials told us this will allow the car to hit a top speed “comfortably” over 215 mph (346 km/h) and run the quarter mile in less than 9.7 seconds at 150 mph (241 km /h).
In Dearborn, things are much less impressive as the Mustang GTD features a turbocharged 5.2-liter V8 with over 800 hp (597 kW / 811 PS). Ford hasn’t said much else about performance specs, but we’re looking at a difference of around 264 hp (197 kW / 268 PS).
While it’s pretty clear that the pony car could use a few extra horses, performance is about more than just an engine. The GTD features lightweight carbon fiber body panels, a number of aerodynamic styling tweaks and a trick rear suspension with its own window.
Unfortunately, Ford said a lot without saying much. That lack of substance isn’t reassuring, but the company recently revealed that the car’s performance package will add dive planes and a larger front splitter, as well as underbody fins and a drag-reducing system for the rear wing. The Performance Pack also includes the Lightweight Package, which eliminates some sound-deadening material while also adding 20-inch magnesium wheels.
One of the few specs that Ford has revealed is a targeted top speed of over 190 mph (306 km/h). That’s nothing to sneeze at, but the Vette should be able to reach a top speed “comfortably” in excess of 215 mph (346 km/h).
Additionally, Chevrolet revealed that the ZR1 will be able to produce over 1,200 pounds (544 kg) of downforce at top speed. There will be several versions of the car that serve slightly different purposes.
As officials explained at a media briefing last month, the standard ZR1 is the “king of top speed” while the ZTK variant is a road-hugging “king of the track” thanks to its aggressive aero package. The latter includes a massive rear wing, front dive planes and a hooded Gurney lip. They’re joined by underbody struts, as well as stiffer springs, revised shocks and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires.
Needless to say, the Mustang doesn’t look too special these days. However, it has a slightly more modern interior with a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and 13.2-inch infotainment system. The latter makes the Corvette’s 8-inch screen feel downright small. Of course, the Vette’s interior doesn’t look like it came straight out of a $32,000 coupe.
With all that being said, are you team Corvette or team Mustang?
