Ford targets sideways inclined youngsters with the drifter-designed Mustang RTR

By Andrew Hard August 19, 2014

Ford Mustang RTR — Image used with permission by copyright holder

The Ford Mustang is not only one of the most iconic cars in the world, it’s also one of the most versatile. From the grocery-getting automatic V6, to the tire-shredding supercharged Cobra, to the Steve McQueen-inspired Bullitt, there’s probably a Mustang somewhere that will fit your lifestyle.

Ford is adding another set of badges to the Mustang for its sixth-generation, and this time it’s getting a little more tail-happy.

Ford Racing is collaborating with drifting champion Vaughn Gittin Jr. for a new pony car variant called the RTR, which will be available as a dealer-installed package come January 2015.

Because the posterior section of this car is so important, let’s start at the back. Based on the design sketches, the RTR has a massive namesake decal between the rear taillights, an extremely aggressive rear diffuser, and a wide array of side splitters and center stakes. The RTR rear spoiler is exclusive to the new model as well.

Ford Mustang RTR — Image used with permission by copyright holder

The front end may be a little loud if you remember the 1980’s, though, as the redesigned grille and nostril-shaped inserts give the Mustang a loud, angular look reminiscent of a tuner car.

Related: The Mustang GT350 special-edition is on the way

Engine choices are unchanged from the standard car, with the 310-horsepower, 2.3-liter Ecoboost coming standard and the 435-hp 5.0-liter V8 coming as an option. However, RTR is planning two different trims, Spec 1 and Spec 2, which implies two levels of upgrades and possibly performance.

“Ford’s Mustang team has done an incredible job with the new 2015 Ford Mustang,” said a clearly impartial Gittin Jr. “The RTR team and I are pumped to work with such an incredible platform for RTR builds. Without a question, the performance and overall presence of the new Mustang RTR will impress and keep a smile on our customers’ faces whether cruising the streets or getting crazy on the track.”

If your sixth-gen Mustang is already reserved but you love the RTR’s look, first ask your parent’s permission, then log onto to RTR’s website. Many of the drifting-inspired car’s parts will be available as bolt-ons when the car is released.

(Photos via Ford Racing)

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Andrew first started writing in middle school and hasn't put the pen down since. Whether it's technology, music, sports, or…

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