Launched on the floor of the 2015 Detroit Auto Show, the new Ford GT picks up where the last one left off the better part of a decade ago – similarly taking its cues from the original, Le Mans-winning GT40, but in a less retro, more modern form. Instead of the atmospheric V8 in the original or the supercharged one in the retro revival, built around a carbon monocoque with structural carbon-fiber body panels, but with aluminum sub-frames front and back. The new GT packs a 3.5 L twin-turbo V6 nestled in the middle of its wheelbase and driving "more than 600 horsepower" to the rear wheels. Although Ford hasn't revealed the specific output or performance figures, it says the engine – derived from its Daytona Prototype unit and mated to a seven-speed DCT – is its most powerful production EcoBoost ever.
Ford designed the new GT with a narrower canopy than its predecessors, cutting the frontal aerodynamic profile and tapering towards the back. It's also equipped with active aero elements including an active rear wing. Upwards swinging doors ought to make ingress and egress easier to and from the cockpit that's fitted with fixed seats, adjustable pedals and F1-style steering wheel and a fully digital instrument cluster.
The new GT is set to enter production in 2016 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the GT40's famous 1-2-3 finish at the 1966 running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Update September 2015: According to some sources, there might only be 100 of the Ford GT that are earmarked for the US in its first year. (autoblog.com)
The new GT is set to enter production in 2016 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the GT40's famous 1-2-3 finish at the 1966 running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Update September 2015: According to some sources, there might only be 100 of the Ford GT that are earmarked for the US in its first year. (autoblog.com)
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Above (Red): 1964-69 Ford GT40 (White): 2004-06 Ford GT (Blue): 2017 Ford GT
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(Photos from autoblog.com & netcarshow.com)
2015 Ford GT Race Car
