Launched as a tribute to the company’s centennial celebration, the Ford GT has evolved from a concept car introduced at the 2002 North American International Auto Show to a highly coveted production supercar. The design, led by Camilo Pardo under the guidance of J Mays, pays homage to the iconic GT40, a four-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans between 1966 and 1969, yet it is significantly larger, wider, and taller to meet modern performance and safety standards.

The production of the Ford GT was a complex process involving multiple facilities across the United States, including assembly at Mayflower Vehicle Systems in Norwalk, Ohio, and engine build at Ford’s Romeo Engine Plant in Romeo, Michigan. The GT is powered by a 5.4L supercharged Ford Modular V8 engine, delivering 550 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a 6-speed Ricardo manual transmission. This powertrain, along with its advanced aerodynamics, including a large front splitter and a massive rear wing, ensures breathtaking performance.

Ford’s commitment to innovation is further exemplified by the GT’s advanced materials and construction techniques, such as a superplastic-formed frame, aluminum body panels, and a friction stir welded center tunnel. The GT’s braking system features four-piston aluminum Brembo calipers with cross-drilled and vented rotors, providing exceptional stopping power.

Despite its limited production run, with approximately 4,038 units built between 2004 and 2006, the Ford GT has left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape. Its rarity and performance have made it a highly sought-after collector’s item, with the Heritage edition models, sporting the Gulf Oil livery, being particularly prized for their historical significance.

In more recent developments, the Ford GT continues to push the boundaries of automotive technology and design. The latest models boast a 660 horsepower 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, embodying Ford’s commitment to combining performance with efficiency. The car’s teardrop shape, extensive use of carbon fiber, and innovative aerodynamics, such as its multifunctional buttresses, demonstrate Ford’s relentless pursuit of speed and handling prowess, making the GT a formidable competitor on both the road and the racetrack.