Mitch Guthrie Jr. is poised to make his mark as he drives off the start podium at the Dakar Rally next month, symbolizing the realization of his dreams with the M-Sport Ford team. Competing in the T1+ category, the young Californian driver has proven his mettle, having narrowly missed victory last year and catching Ford's eye with his impressive performances.
Guthrie Jr. is excited about the opportunity to race alongside living legends like four-time winner Carlos Sainz and double champion Nani Roma, noting, "For me, it’s the dream [to race with Ford], because when you are racing at a young age, especially as an American in cross-country, it’s not easy, it’s a tough path." The experience he is gaining is invaluable, and he’s ready to tackle the challenges of the Dakar Rally.
Yet it’s not just Guthrie Jr.'s enthusiasm for the challenge; it's the preparation that's gone on behind the scenes. He has spent considerable time testing Ford's Raptor T1+, amassing over three thousand kilometers during testing phases across various terrains such as Spain, Morocco, and beyond. "I’ve done thousands of kilometers in the car already, and we are happy with the setups of the car and everything," he remarked confidently about his readiness.
His long-time navigator, Kellon Walch, also adds significant strength to the duo. A seasoned veteran who previously navigated for Robby Gordon, Walch’s experience and familiarity with the grueling demands of the Dakar Rally equip the team with strategic insights. Guthrie appreciates the synergy they’ve formed, stating, "He knows what I’m thinking, and I know what he’s thinking, so that's really good."
Ford's most recent foray isn’t limited solely to rally racing; the brand's performance vehicles are also being put to the test against competitors like RAM Trucks. During comparisons between Ford’s Raptor offerings and their RAM rivals, figures reveal both the power and agility Ford aims to deliver. With the RAM 1500 RHO reaching 60 mph from standstill within 5.1 seconds, the competition is fierce. But Ford isn't backing down.
The Ford Ranger Raptor showcases its modified 3.0-liter V6 EcoBoost engine, which now churns out 455 horsepower thanks to performance tuning. Despite the improvements, it fell short against the RAM’s power, clocking 14.16 seconds for the quarter-mile, compared to the RAM's impressive 13.48 seconds.
Even more intriguingly, when compared to the F-150 Raptor, which boasts 450 hp from its 3.5-liter engine, the Ford truck struggled once more, achieving only 14.43 seconds on the same quarter-mile course. Ford’s apex predator, the F-150 Raptor R, which has been enhanced to deliver 720 hp through its supercharged V8 powerplant, decisively crossed the finish line first, securing its time of 12.56 seconds.
These results only add to the anticipation surrounding the Dakar Rally and Ford’s aggressive competition strategy. The growing rivalry between Ford and RAM continues to engage enthusiasts, as witnessed during their latest drag races. Automotive enthusiasts tuned in to see the matchup, noting the excitement of seeing these powerful machines pushed to their limits. The RAM, with its tenth-of-a-second edge, is still leading the way, but Ford’s dedication to testing and refinement could see them trade places as the stakes rise this January.
The narrative surrounding Guthrie Jr. is not just about his own ambitions but also speaks to the essence of racing culture—stepping out from the shadows of towering legacies to carve one's own path. His father, Mitch Guthrie Sr., is celebrated within US off-roading, but the younger Guthrie is eager to prove himself on the global stage. He summarizes this experience well, mentioning the wealth of knowledge he gains racing alongside seasoned champions.
While the Dakar Rally offers special challenges, it reflects wider trends across off-road motorsports. The increasing attention the event garners showcases the culture of intense competition and the lengths teams go to prepare. With transcontinental tests and strenuous developmental races, modern competitors are constantly tested against the best. Understanding dynamics, vehicle capabilities, and tire performance over tough terrains are game-changers.
The upcoming Dakar Rally, where Mitch Guthrie Jr. and Kellon Walch will race the Ford Raptor, promises to be about more than winning; it’s about establishing Ford’s place among elite competitors, standing shoulder to shoulder with the likes of RAM as enthusiasts worldwide take notice. Here’s hoping the stories of ambition and rivalry fuel remarkable performances come January.
