HISTORY

2005/2006 GT Origin

The Ford GT was initially developed as a part of Ford's strategy to re-enter the high-performance sports car market, celebrating the company's heritage, particularly its historic victory at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans. In that race, the Ford GT40 (which was initially developed to compete with Ferrari) famously triumphed, breaking Ferrari's dominance of the race. This victory is a defining moment in Ford’s history, and the company wanted to bring that legacy back.

 

                           

The decision to build a modern Ford GT was also influenced by the growing popularity of high-performance, limited-production supercars, especially with manufacturers like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Porsche leading the segment.

The Development Process

• Prototype and Early Plans (2002): The Ford GT concept was first unveiled at the 2002 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The concept car generated significant excitement, and Ford quickly decided to bring a production version to market.
• Design: The design was a mix of modern and retro, with the body strongly inspired by the classic Ford GT40, but updated with advanced technology and materials. It was designed to capture the essence of the GT40 but with contemporary performance features.

 

Introduction and Production (2005–2006)

• Launch: The production Ford GT debuted in 2004 as a 2005 model. The car began assembly at Mayflower vehicle systems (MVS) in Norwalk, Ohio and was painted and continued assembly at Saleen Special Vehicles Team (SVT) facility in Troy, Michigan. 

• Performance:

  • Powered by a 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine, the Ford GT produced 550 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. This engine was mated to a 6-speed manual transmission and powered the car from 0 to 60 mph in just around 3.3 seconds.
  • The car had a top speed of 205 mph, and its performance was backed by advanced suspension systems, a mid-engine layout, and a lightweight aluminum body.
  • The GT featured carbon fiber elements for weight reduction and ceramic disc brakes for improved stopping power.

• Design and Features: The GT retained the distinctive, low-slung body shape of the GT40, but with a modern flair. Its exterior was made from aluminum and fiberglass, and the car's large, centrally-mounted twin exhausts, wide stance, and aggressive styling made it a showstopper.

  • Interior: The interior was functional but luxurious, with a focus on performance. The cockpit had a simple, race-inspired design, with comfortable bucket seats, a minimalist dashboard, and an emphasis on driving experience.

Limited Production

• Production Numbers: Ford initially planned to produce around 4,500 units, but production was limited to 4,038 cars over a two-year span (2005-2006). The final Ford GT rolled off the assembly line in 2006, marking the end of the first production run.

• Price: When the Ford GT was first launched, it was priced at approximately $150,000. Over time, this price became a significant part of the car's allure, especially on the secondary market, where it often fetched much higher values.

Legacy and Impact

• Automotive Community: The Ford GT immediately became a collector’s item. Its combination of retro design, incredible performance, and limited availability made it highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors alike.
• Motorsports and Successor Models: The Ford GT's legacy was further cemented when a racing version of the car, the Ford GT Mk II, was developed for racing in various series, continuing Ford’s motorsport heritage. The Ford GT (2017), a modern re-imagining of the car, was introduced to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Ford's historic 1-2-3 finish at Le Mans in 1966.

Notable Aspects

1. Supercharged Engine: One of the most significant features of the 2005/2006 Ford GT was its supercharged 5.4-liter V8 engine, which delivered power in a way that paid homage to the GT40's legendary racing pedigree.
2. Heritage Design: The GT maintained the visual hallmarks of the GT40, such as the long hood, rear exhaust vents, and wide fenders, while blending modern aerodynamic and functional details.
3. Advanced Technologies: The Ford GT featured advanced materials like carbon fiber and aluminum to keep the weight low while maintaining a high level of structural integrity. It also incorporated advanced suspension technology that provided a performance-focused driving experience.

Special Editions

• Heritage Edition (2006): In the final production year, Ford offered a special Heritage Edition, which was painted in a classic Ford Racing blue with orange stripes, a nod to the 1966 Le Mans-winning cars. This special edition was a tribute to the original Ford GT40’s racing success.

End of Production and Resale Market

• By the time production ended in 2006, the Ford GT had already become a collectible, with prices rising on the secondary market. Many owners kept their cars in pristine condition, and the Ford GT has since become one of the most iconic American supercars in history.

The 2005/2006 Ford GT remains a symbol of Ford’s performance and design prowess, combining the heritage of the 1960s GT40 with the engineering advancements of the 21st century. Its status as a modern classic continues to attract attention from collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone passionate about high-performance automobiles.

The Ford GT exemplifies the American engineering spirit, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge technology, and solidified Ford’s reputation as a producer of world-class supercars.