Why Did Jay Leno Receive Mustang GTD Number 12—and Not Number 1?
When news broke that Jay Leno had just taken delivery of the twelfth Ford Mustang GTD, some folks scratched their heads. You’d think a car guy of his caliber would snag VIN number 1, right? Turns out, there’s a story behind the number. Leno’s previous Ford GTs were also number 12, so it’s become a bit of a tradition for him. It’s a small detail, but it says a lot about how personal these cars can be, even for someone who’s seen it all.
What Makes the Mustang GTD Stand Out in the Supercar World?
Let’s get right to the heart of it: the Mustang GTD isn’t your average pony car. This machine is packing a supercharged 5.2-liter V8, cranking out a jaw-dropping 815 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. That’s not just a number for the spec sheet—it translates to a top speed of 202 mph and a Nürburgring lap time under seven minutes. For context, that’s a feat reserved for the world’s most elite supercars. According to Ford, the GTD completed the Green Hell in 6:57.685, making it the first American car to break that barrier.
But raw power is only part of the story. The GTD’s Performance package adds aerodynamic wizardry—canards, underbody flaps, a drag reduction system, and a larger front splitter. Even the wheels are special: 20-inch magnesium, lighter and stronger than your typical alloys. Ford didn’t stop there; they stripped out some sound-deadening material to shave off extra pounds. The result? Pure magic.
How Did Ford CEO Jim Farley Shape the GTD’s Development?
Jim Farley, Ford’s CEO, personally delivered Leno’s GTD and shared some behind-the-scenes insight. Farley described the GTD as the culmination of a decade-long dream. Ford always wanted a Mustang that could take on the world’s best, but racing regulations stood in the way until recently. Once the rules changed, the team went all-in, designing a car that could not only compete at Le Mans but also thrill on public roads.
Farley’s hands-on involvement isn’t just for show. He’s a genuine enthusiast, and his fingerprints are all over the GTD’s development. The car’s balance of track prowess and road manners reflects a leadership style that values both heritage and innovation. It’s a rare blend, and it shows in every detail.
Is the Mustang GTD Really Worth Its Price Tag?
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the GTD’s price hovers around $300,000. For a Mustang, that sounds wild. But as Leno himself put it, if you’re finding the limits of this car on public roads, you’re probably headed straight to jail. The GTD isn’t just fast in a straight line—it’s nimble, light on its feet, and surprisingly easy to drive at sane speeds. Leno praised its visibility, steering, and overall feel, calling it worth every penny for those who want something truly special.
If you compare the GTD to other cars in its price range—think Porsche 911 GT3 RS or Lamborghini Huracán STO—it holds its own, and then some. The GTD brings American muscle to a global stage, backed by real racing pedigree and a level of engineering that’s hard to match.
What’s It Like to Actually Drive the Mustang GTD?
Leno’s first impressions say a lot. He’s no stranger to high-powered cars, yet the GTD left him genuinely impressed. He noted how the car feels light and responsive, with steering that communicates exactly what’s happening at the front wheels. The Performance package’s aerodynamic tweaks aren’t just for show—they make a tangible difference in how the car handles at speed.
Of course, Leno is taking it easy for now, breaking in the car before really pushing it. But even at moderate speeds, the GTD’s character shines through. It’s the kind of car that begs to be driven hard, yet remains approachable for those moments when you just want to cruise.
How Does the Mustang GTD Fit Into Ford’s Legacy?
The GTD isn’t just another special edition—it’s a statement. Ford has a long history of building cars that punch above their weight, from the original Mustang to the GT40 that conquered Le Mans. The GTD carries that torch into a new era, blending old-school V8 thunder with cutting-edge technology.
It’s also a sign of where Ford is headed. Performance isn’t just about horsepower anymore; it’s about balance, innovation, and the ability to surprise even the most jaded car enthusiasts. The GTD is proof that American manufacturers can still set the pace, both on the track and in the showroom.
The Big Takeaway? The Mustang GTD Isn’t About Perfection—It’s About Smarter Adjustments
If there’s one thing to learn from the Mustang GTD, it’s that greatness comes from relentless refinement, not chasing some mythical ideal. Ford didn’t reinvent the wheel—they just made it sharper, lighter, and more focused. Start with one change this week, whether it’s in your garage or your daily routine, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. That’s the real spirit of the GTD: progress, one smart tweak at a time.