Drivetrain

To really experience the legend of the GT, I had to get my hands into one and take it to the tracks. The fact that the GT has already proven its worth in the tracks made me more anxious. As I sat behind the wheels, I was aware of the immense power of the 3.5 L, twin-turbocharged V6 behind me, 647 hp and 550 lb-ft of torque to be precise.  I could not help but wonder why Ford had to wait for this long to revive this legendary racer. The unit sends its “juice” to all four wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission system.

Although I would have loved a V-8 in this model, I must say Ford has done great to ensure the V-6 does the job just right. I soon found out that the engine provides awesome peak power and with an EcoBoost engine controller, it was easy to keep the beast in Sport, Track or V-Max modes. This as I found means the modes start producing the needed boost even before the throttle comes into play. When the throttle sets in, well, the result can rival a V-8. Although the vehicle is rumored to hit 60 mph from a standstill position in 3 seconds, as much as I tried, I could only do it in 3.5 seconds. I did a quarter mile in 12.5 seconds but the vehicle is rated to need only 10.5 seconds to do a quarter mile. Although V-8 enthusiasts still feel upset, I must say I loved the sound of the V-6 engine.

Unlike the original GTs, controlling this beast is much easy, courtesy of Ford’s precise steering system and its pushrod suspension. Specifically, the car’s suspension system enables one to change the ride height according to the driving mode one is in. A ride of 4.7 inches is ideal in the streets to protect the vehicle belly but stepping on the tracks, you will need to put its height at 2.75 inches in Track and V-Max modes to enhance its stability.  Considering it is a performance dedicated supercar, I found its ride quality mostly in the “Normal”, “Wet” and “Sport” modes particularly impressive even when you decide to take your beast across the country. The suspension system is so crafted that it has a front-end lift feature which raises the model’s ground clearance when approaching steep inclines and driveways. In essence, the GT transforms from a dedicated track race to an exotic car with much ease enabling you to drive home after spending time on the tracks.

2017 Ford GT Interior Impressions

The model is not functional though. You won’t have to carry along much of your luggage as the trunk accommodates only 0.4 cu ft of cargo. The space is not even a conventional cargo space but rather a pocket of space left behind the engine. The fixed driver’s seat was particularly well executed as it gives one consistent sight line while still ensuring easy reach of controls and excellent weight distribution. There is no need to worry if you will fit in the driver’s seat as Ford thought of that and hooked up the model with movable pedals and a tilt-telescopic steering wheel. The supercar, however, lacks sound deadening and the engine’s note dominates the cabin particularly in Sport, Track and V-Max modes.

To share your exploits at the tracks, Ford has hooked up the model with an advanced Ford Performance application that enables the driver to store his/her perspective and telemetry video. Pairing this app with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto enables the driver to review his/her driving as well as share such video on mobile devices. There is even a SYNC 3 and an audio system in there to ensure you are not bored when you go for long distances.

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Ford GT Competition Series Exterior

Design-wise, the Ford GT Competition Series is not very different from the regular GT. The model is however very light compared to the regular GT. This is courtesy of a number of weight saving modifications. These modifications include a lightweight Perspex acrylic engine hatch top that is race-inspired, Gorilla glass windscreen and bulkhead and a carbon-fiber prop rod. It also features lightweight A-pillars, carbon-fiber wheels with titanium lug nuts as well as a titanium exhaust system all as standard.

To separate the Competition Series from the regular GT, Ford has hooked it up with a gloss carbon fiber stripe and carbon-fiber mirror caps. The model also features as standard a carbon fiber lower body accenting. The model will be available in 6 exterior colors; they are Frozen White, Liquid Blue, Shadow Black, Ingot Silver, Triple Yellow and Liquid Grey.

Ford GT Competition Series Interior

The cabin also remains largely unchanged compared with the standard GT.  It comes with a similar F1-inspired steering wheel that hosts important controls. The model’s seats are wrapped in suede Ebony Alcantara. The same upholstery is also used on the headliner and instrument panel. The model also features a carbon fiber trim on the doorsills and center console. The new GT also adds anodized paddle shifters colored in red. There is also a GT Competition Series badge on the instrument panel.

Being a track-oriented model, all luxury equipments have been thrown out. Therefore, there is no air conditioning, stowage bins, speakers, radio and cupholders. As said earlier, the infotainment system has also been thrown out. The automaker has however retained the steel roll cage that is FIA-certified.

Engine and performance

Ford has retained the engine setup of the outgoing model unchanged. Thus, the Ford GT Competition Series will be powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5 L, V-6 that is rated at 647 horses and 550 lb-ft of torque. Due to reduced weight, the model will likely be quicker than the standard GT.

However, Ford has not disclosed the amount of weight loss making it hard to determine its effect on the model’s performance. I think it will take less than 3.0 seconds to accelerate from 0-60 mph. Its top speed will likely remain electronically limited at 216 mph.

Price and release date

Ford is still mum about the new GT Competition Series prices. However, it will likely be more expensive than the regular GT. The regular GT has a starting price of $450,000. The automaker will avail this information when the model nears its on-sale date later this year. I expect production numbers of the model to be limited.

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2018 Ford Mustang GT Convertible Exterior

The new visual modifications make the Mustang look more polarizing than ever. At the front, the new look is characterized by a new grille with a trapezoidal opening at the lower part. Flanking the grille are smaller LED headlights and heritage-laced strips of LED DRLs. The front bumper has also been revised while the hood sits much lower. On the sides, the model features LED light strips in place of triangular-shaped units in the last model.

The rear carries over almost unchanged except for the revised taillights, a new diffuser as well as a modified license plate recess. Models powered by the EcoBoost mill features dual exhaust pipes while the GT features quad pipes with a race-inspired center section.

There are three new exterior colors i.e. Kona Blue, Orange Furry and Royal Crimson. In addition, the Mustang will feature 12 new wheel designs.

2018 Ford Mustang GT Convertible Interior

Except for the open roof that offers all the headroom in the world, the convertible is identical to the coupe. Like the coupe, the convertible flaunts the new instrument cluster, a new feat for the Mustang. The 12-inch LCD offered as an option has three views that can also be customized depending on the driver’s preferences. The screen can be configured to display various information for the vehicle’s Normal, Sport and Track driving modes. The automaker has also hooked up the Mustang with a new adaptive suspension dubbed the MagneRide borrowed from the Shelby GT350.

Being a performance-oriented car, the Mustang packs high-tech features; these features include various electronic driving aids such as a pre-collision assist system with the pedestrian detection system, a lane-departure warning system, distance alert as well as a lane-keep assist. Buyers can also opt for the FordPass, a Smartphone app that allows the driver to lock, unlock, start or even locate the car in a parking lot.

The images presented by the automaker highlight the instrument cluster with a 1,964.5 numbering on its odometer, a reference to the first generation of Mustangs which arrived at dealer showrooms as 1964.5 models. The 289 miles reading is a representation of the first-gen GT’s 289-cubic-inch V-8 mill.

Engine Specs and performance

Like the coupe, Ford will also not use the naturally aspirated 3.7 L, V-6 on the drop-top version. Therefore, the base mill will be a turbocharged 2.3 L EcoBoost 4-cylinder mill. The automaker revealed that this engine will get a power increase but did not reveal the actual numbers. Buyers looking to get more “juice” from their convertible will have an option to go for the 5.0 L, V-8 engine.

For 2018, this engine will feature direct as well as port fuel injection which will help increase output as well as improve its fuel efficiency. The engines will be mated either to a 6-speed manual gearbox or to the new 10-speed automatic gearbox. The systems channel power to the rear wheels.  The brand-new, 10-speed automatic gearbox improves low-speed acceleration while still boosting fuel economy.  According to Ford, the system also features real-time adaptive shifting to ensure the right gears are selected.

According to social media discussions, the images presented feature the car in the fourth gear at a 55 mph speed that hint at a possible 455 lb-ft of torque. The 4700 rpm may be a hint of 470 hp output. These are mere speculations and official figures will be released later on. If this were to be true, the Mustang will be more powerful than the 6^th-Gen Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

Price and release date

Ford is yet to communicate the official release date of the Mustang or its official prices. The 2018 Ford Mustang GT Convertible will likely arrive at dealerships late this year or early next year. The convertible will first tour 50 regional shows before being delivered to dealerships.

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Ford Mustang GT4 Turnkey Exterior

The Ford Mustang GT4 Turnkey exterior is based on the Shelby GT350R-C.  However, the GT4 exterior is more aerodynamic as well as more aggressive. At the front, the GT4 uses a grille and bumpers that are identical to those of other IMSA racecars. The GT4 however features extra aero fins at each of its corners. The hood is unique; it features large air vents as well as quick release fins.

On the sides, the model is also unique in that it rides on Forgeline 18-inch by 11-inch wheels which are covered in slick tires. At the rear, the racecar features a diffuser and a huge wing to improve its aerodynamics as well as add some downforce, which comes in handy when flying down the tracks. The model is finished off with dark-gray paintwork with blue and white accents. The body also features numerous Ford logos and those of Performance Parts providers.

Ford Mustang GT4 Turnkey Interior

Ford did not avail much information about the model’s interior styling. Understandingly, being a racecar, there is not that much information to talk about either.   I understand that the cabin has been modeled specifically for racing. To start with, the model comes with a fully FIA-compliant roll cage as standard. The model also features a MoTeC dash logger.

In addition, the Mustang GT4 Turnky also features a new digital display as well as lightweight door panels.  Drivers will love the Alcantara wrapped steering wheel, antilock-braking controller, motorsports engine control and Sparco driver seat.

Engine and performance

Ford has looked at its existing lineups of racecars for the drive-train that will provide the juice for the GT4 on the tracks. The honor has been given to the engine that powers the Shelby GT350 as well as some other IMSA racecars. The unit is a 5.2 L, naturally aspirated V-8 mill. In fact, the mill is the fastest naturally aspirated engine ever to come from the Ford’s factory. The mill is also the first production V-8 to feature a flat-plane crankshaft.

In the current road-going GT350, the engine produces 526 hp ad 429 lb-ft of torque. Due to weight issues, the GT4 Turnkey may get less power. I understand that the GT4 mill will be paired with a 6-speed Holinger transmission system that comes with paddle shifters. In addition, the model has received a chassis revamp from Multimatic Motorsports. The new additions include stabilizer bars, lower rear control arms and dampers.

Price and release date

Ford is yet to release the pricing information of the Ford Mustang GT4 Turnkey. However, according to ongoing rumors, the model will be more expensive than the Shelby GT350R. However, it will not come cheap, so expect a price tag of over $100,000.

The automaker has however confirmed that the model will be offered globally. Ford also revealed that the model would be eligible to compete in all GT4 categories anywhere in the world. Ford will start receiving orders on December 1, as the model will be released in time for the 2017 season.

Competition

The GT4 will face fierce competition from other Impressive GT4 racers such as the Porsche Cayman GT4 ClubSport, BMW M4, Chevrolet Camaro Z/28.R, Aston Martin Vantage, and McLaren 570S GT4.

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In the 1960s, Ferrari had dominated the 24 Hours of Le Mans and until Ford won the 1966 Edition, the race had never been won by an American company.  Last year, at the Detroit Auto Show, Ford showcased the 2^nd Generation GT to celebrate 50 years after its unique conquest.

Still on the celebrations, the automaker has now released another model specifically to honor the model that took the number one spot during the race.  This was the black and silver finished GT40 Mark II Coupe driven by Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon. The new model is a modern interpretation of the iconic 1966 model. Read along to find out more:

2017 Ford GT66 Heritage edition Exterior

The 2017 Ford GT66 Heritage Edition is inspired by the GT40 Mark II which Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon drove to victory in 1966. The new model features its ancestor’s “shadow black” paintwork with silver stripes that run from its nose to the decklid.

The Shadow Black paint job is available in either matte or gloss which gives buyers something close to the original model. The matte finish particularly augurs well with the car’s exposed carbon-fiber package. The vehicle also features the number 2 graphics in Frozen White on its doors and hood. The model rides on a set of one-piece, 20-inch forged aluminum wheels. The wheels also wear a gold satin clear coat.

2017 Ford GT66 Heritage edition Interior

Compared to the standard GT, the GT66 Heritage Edition cabin has been hooked up with special features. To start with, the model features carbon-fiber seats which are upholstered with Ebony leather. The seats also feature pillowed inserts and a contrasting plow-through stitching which gives the cabin the all-unique vintage look.

Ebony leather is also used to wrap the instrument panel, headliner and pillars.  The shift paddles, instrument panel and the seat’s X-brace feature a gold trim. Ford has placed the “GT’ logo on the steering wheel and headliners. A blue webbing similar to the 1966 model is used on the steering wheel and seat belts.

The cabin also features exposed matte carbon fiber center console and door sills. The door panels also feature “#2” graphics to remind you of the original GT40 Mark II that won the 1966 Le Mans.

Engine and performance

Under the hood, the GT66 Heritage Edition features the same mid-mounted engine as the standard GT. This is the twin-turbocharged 3.5 L. EcoBoost V-6 engine which produces over 600 hp.

The power is channeled to the rear wheels via a 7-speed, dual-clutch system with paddle shifters. The model becomes the first GT ever not to use a manual transmission system.

Price and release date

Ford has revealed that the GT66 Heritage edition will be offered in limited numbers; however, the automaker didn’t reveal the exact number. Ford is already accepting orders but bearing in mind these types of cars sell out in hours, you will be lucky to get one. The models will be delivered to dealerships in December.

Ford did not say anything about the model’s price.  However, since the standard GT starts at $400,000, expect the GT66 Heritage edition to attract a price tag of over $450,000.

Competition

The 2017 GT66 Heritage edition will face rivalry from the Audi R8, McLaren P1 GTR and Acura NSX.

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Just recently in 2015, Chevy beat Ford in their own game by hooking up the Z/28 with an independent rear suspension but the Blue Oval automaker responded swiftly with the 2016’s GT 350 version. For the 2017 model year, the Mustang comes with a good deal of performance features meaning buyers can take their Stangs straight to a track field from the showroom.

However, this was not the case with last year’s model; buyers had to add extra cash for the optional Track Package. Buyers who specifically want their Stang for the track racing should opt for the track-focused GT350R. The standard GT350 is for those who want to ride their Stangs on the streets, country roads and form one time to another go for a thrill in the racing tracks. Read along to find out more:

2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 Exterior and interior changes

During the recent Ford press release, the automaker revealed that the Track Package will no longer be available. Instead, its features of the package which included an aluminum strut tower brace, the MagneRide which simply speaking composes the adaptive dampers, differential coolers and a rear spoiler will all be offered as standard features.

Though the automaker didn’t say what will happen with other features of the package such as the drive-mode selector and the front suspension springs, we assume they will be offered as standard. All these features are offered on the track-oriented GT350R meaning the GT350 is edging closer to the GT350R.

The previous model’s other packages have also been changed. To start with, the previous Technology Package which featured among others the SYNC 3 infotainment system with a voice-activated navigation system, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats has been  incorporated with additional features in a new convenience Package.

This package can now be offered with the performance features which have been made standard. Previously, a buyer could not combine the Track Package with the Technology Package, an issue many buyers didn’t like. The automaker seems to have listened to their concerns in effecting the changes.

The Convenience Package even adds extra features than the Technology Package used to offer. Some of these features include a 9-speaker audio system, and softer door panels trim.

There is a new Package for the 2017 model year which is dubbed the Electronics Package. This package was previously available only on the GT350R. It adds a dual-zone climate control system, floor mats, a tire inflator, a sealant kit, a radio and a backup camera. However, all the Electronics Package features are included in the Convenience Package which is more expensive.

Engine Specs and Performance

There are no changes under the hood. The 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 features a Coyote 5.2 l V-8 mill. The engine is rated to produce 526 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque. The power is sent to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission system that features a specially tuned Torsen Limited slip differential. The vehicle accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds.

The engine does not use turbochargers or superchargers which makes it among the best naturally aspirated vehicles in the world. A customized exhaust system with 4 exhaust tips is paired with the engine. The unique sound from these tips will leave everyone in awe wherever it zooms past.

Price and release date

Ford remained tightlipped about the new 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 price during its press release. However, we understand that the model might be slightly expensive than the current version with the optional Track Package included. Currently, the Stang has an MSRP of $ 48,695, adding the Track Package takes it to $ 55,195.

Close sources intimate that the new model will start at $ 56,495. The model is scheduled to hit Ford dealerships in June this year. Official prices will be communicated when the model nears the official on-sale date.

Competition

The Chevrolet Camaro 1LE and the Dodge Challenger are the stag’s main rivals.

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Angry, Henry Ford II instructed his performance department to come up with a Ferrari “slayer”. The first attempt was a huge disappointment with the vehicle developing mechanical problems; in fact, the car never finished any race. Disappointed but not ready to give up, Ford turned to Shelby and sometime later they rolled out the GT40 and boy finally Ford had a real muscle car.

Shortly after its debut in 1966 Ford produced a shocking podium sweep at the 24 Hours of Le Mans making the car the first American race car to win at Le Mans. In so doing, the vehicle helped Ford get the better of Ferrari. The sweet victory helped create probably the most classical revenge story of the motoring world.

The GT40 would go on to dominate the race tracks winning it four times in a row at LeMans as well as achieve victories in other race tracks in the world. Now, 50 years later, Ford in collaboration with Shelby American, Superformance and Safir GT40 are set to release a new 2016 Shelby GT40 based on the original model in commemoration of the GT40 exploits of the late ‘60s.

2016 Shelby GT40 Exterior

The 50^th anniversary cars look identical to the original cars of the 1966. The designers paid a great deal of attention to ensure they got everything right. Every detail is included, from its rounded nose, muscular front fenders, the two scoops behind the engine hood, beefed-up haunches with cooling air intakes to the gold wheels; everything is as it were 50 years ago.

Even the Gurney bubble situated at the top of the driver’s side door is featured. Did you know that the roof bubble was added to create room for Dan Gurney? At 6’4”, the guy struggled to fit into the cockpit hence the creative roof bubble to allow Gurney’s helmet to fit in. Later the feature was nicknamed “Gurney’s bubble”.

The car can be had in three color trims according to the personalities who drove them. The first is the black with silver stripes i.e. McLaren edition, then there is the Ken Miles edition featuring Blue with White stripes and the Dan Gurney edition which features Red with White stripes.

Over 90% of the car parts including its steel monocoque are in fact interchangeable with the original parts.

2016 Shelby GT40 Interior

Just like the exterior, the interior is identical to the original vehicle except for a few alterations and additions.  The seats however lack the original bolstering while the center console is molded with a different shape. Superperformance has maintained the right-hand drive and right hand shift configuration just as the original car which am sure Carroll Shelby would commend. Smith-style gauges still remain.

The cabin has also gained some basic modern necessities such as  a new air-conditioning system, an adjustable pedal box, Carroll Shelby-branded mats, Bilstein shocks that come with H&R springs and a parking brake lever. Despite the new additions and changes, the cabin of the replica still looks authentic.

Engine Specs

The vehicle comes without an engine and buyers will have to look for their own engine However, the recommended unit is a 7.0 L, V-8 which is built by Shelby. The engine a Shelby aluminum-block 427 FE V-8 is rated at 625 hp.

Originally, the engine used to produce 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque. Each engine comes with its own badge stating the number in the limited series it is. The numbers start at GT40 P 20150 to 2069. Shelby will also list this particular sequence number in its own official registry since it is a licensed product.

Price and release date

To get your hands on the 50^th Anniversary Shelby GT40 you will need to spend $ 169,995 for the rolling chassis only. The engine is sold separately. According to sources, the engine will cost between $ 50,000 and $ 60,000. This means to get a complete car, you will need to spend in excess of $ 220,000.

If you have that dough you better hurry and make an order as only 20 units will be produced…wait a minute, I think you might have already missed the chance as these cars sell out moments after the an automaker starts accepting orders.

If you miss out on the 2016 Shelby GT40, check whether the Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe 50^th Anniversary is still available but similarly only 50 units will be built.

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In fact, before the 2000 movie, the Shelby GT500 was never referred to as Eleanor. The 2000 movie was a remake of HB Halicki’s 1974 movie with the same title. During the original movie, a Ford Mustang Mach-1 was used. Unlike the 200 movie, the Eleanor of the 1974 movie needed no special modification since it was among the best muscle cars of the time.

The making of Eleanor

In the 2000 movie, things were a little different, using a classic Ford Mustang amid the likes of Ferraris and Lamborghinis, the Mustang would have looked out of class and the European supercars would end up stealing the show. All attention needed to be focused on Eleanor and though the producers could have chosen a European muscle car to act the role without the need of any modification that would have lost the spirit of the original movie. The role had to be played by an American born and blend muscle car.

Before selecting the 1967 Ford Shelby GT 500, the producers had toyed with the idea of using the very rare and expensive Ford GT40. However, they shelved the idea of using the GT40 due to the difficult stunts that needed to be performed. However, the wheels of the Eleanor were borrowed from the GT40.

The transformation

The original Mustang wasn’t good enough to fit the bill on its own and had to undergo a rigorous transformation. The models were “souped” up at Yukon, Oklahoma where you can still get your GT500 transformed to the Eleanor at a cost of around $ 109,000.

To create an Eleanor, the GT500 is fitted with a 401 c.i racing engine featuring aluminum heads up front, ,an aluminum cross-flowing radiator, a pair of 12-inch cooling fans ceramic coated headers, a Mass Flo fuel injector system, and a Concept 1serpentine belt drive system,

The base model pumps out 535 hp while the reworked engine comes all out with 770 hp but the more potent models attract an $189,000 price tag. The power is channeled to the rear wheels via a 5-speed Tremec or an automatic system. To ensure the vintage body doesn’t quake under all this pressure, the body is held in check by plenty of bracing.

1967 Ford Mustang GT 500 Eleanor Interior styling

The cabin of the GT500 has been overhauled. The new interior features new seats with 5-point harnesses, a wood and aluminum trimmed steering wheel as well as deluxe trimmings from the 1967 models. New features you could not get in the 60s are a NOS system and a red button fixed on the dash and shift knob respectively. At the back there is no trunk space as the space is occupied by a humongous tank of nitrous.

Its windows and doors are operated manually and though the vehicle has an air con it does little to ease the temperatures.
Simply put, there is nothing else interesting about the Eleanor apart from driving it. You can imagine it features a single button in the entire cabin which operates the stereo. Unlike the modern machines, here there are no connectivity features like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or USB ports. Its dual exhaust pipes barely contain the engines explosions and it is in fact one of the loudest cars around. It can in fact set off parked car alarms.

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Ford GT40 was an idea that was conceived out of Henry Ford II urge to take revenge on Ferrari and boy what a way to get even. In the 50s and 60s Ferrari used to dominate the racing tracks and Ford wanting to have a share of the limelight wanted to buy the Italian company.

However, Enzo Ferrari wanted to control the racing operations as he considered the production company just as a means of financing his racing projects but Ford would have none of it and wanted the whole thing. Ford didn’t want to race the Ferrari’s along with his Ford vehicle. The two failed to reach an agreement and Enzo pulled out of the deal leaving Henry Ford very infuriated. Ford later issued a command to his performance department to produce a car that would rout the Ferrari at the race tracks.

Ford department didn’t have the skills and sought help from John Wyer who was a former Aston Martin’s racing manager.  Within months the vehicle was ready but it was a disaster and would go on to retire early due to mechanical problems. Not giving up the company sought help from Shelby and they got it right with the second version of the Ford GT40.

Suddenly, the racing world became Ford’s, the vehicle started the dominance at the  1966’s Daytona 2000 where the vehicle won 1-2-3 and repeated the same feat in Sebring but the sweetest one was the podium sweep at the Le Mans in June of the same year ending Ferrari’s 6 years of dominance. The GT40 would go on to win at Lemans for four consecutive years.

Ford GT40 – A legend driven by legends

Almost all who’s who of automotive legends drove this car.  The likes of Bruce McLaren, A.J. Foyt, Jackie Ickx and Dan Gurney all drove the Ford GT40 to victory. These drivers were everywhere on the international circuit at the time.

The GT40 tuned the Le Mans into its little playground winning consecutively in 1967 all the through to 1969.

Unmatched tale of all time

The sweet victories of the GT40 left sour tastes on mouths of many automakers at the time. Many went into overdrive trying to make a GT40 slayer and in 1970 the car got its match in the form of Porsche 917 which not only outshone the GT40 but rendered it obsolete.

However, though the Ferraris and the Porsche 917 won numerous titles at Le Mans and other races, they never captured the general attention of the public as the GT40. This was due to the GT40s unique tale of revenge which featured fast cars, huge egos of Henry Ford II and Enzo Ferrari as well as huge piles of dollars.

Ford GT40 Interior

America is still waiting for a GT40 successor

The story proved that Americans could outshine the Europeans in making fast cars which was impossible until the Ford GT40 1966 Le Man’s victory. Since then American race cars have found the going at the Le Mans tough after Ford stopped racing their GT40 at the races.  Though American drivers have raced to victory and American vehicles have gone to win their specific races, America is still waiting for the first car to win the overall title since the last crown of the Ford GT40 back in 1969 and who knows, Ford might yet again hold the key to this feat.

Ford GT40 Engine

The 50^th Anniversary

The original Ford GT40 remains one of the most sought after cars and in 2012, a 1968 model was sold at a whopping $ 11 million. To celebrate its 50^th Anniversary of its memorable racing year, Ford is planning to release a new GT sportscar purely targeted to the track just like the GT40 of 1963. We are all waiting to see whether the new machine will reach the same heights as its legendary ancestor.

The upcoming GT specs

Far from what many people expected, Ford has equipped the  GT Le Mans Racer with a dual-turbocharged 3.5 L EcoBoost V6 engine which produces 630 hp and 539 lb-ft of torque. Ford achieves all this power from the small engine courtesy of a host of enhancements which include dual turbochargers, and combined direct/port injection system.

Power is sent to the rear wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transaxle. There is no manual transmission for this model. The automaker didn’t reveal details on its acceleration, speed or fuel economy. However, we understand that the GT40 will break the 4 second barrier in the 0-60 mph dash. It will have a top speed of around 200 mph.

Ford GT LeMans

Only 250 units of the Ford GT Le Mans Racer will be produced. Earlier during the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, Ford Performance Manager Dave Pericak said that the vehicle would have a price close to that of the Lamborghini Aventador which has a starting price of $ 397,500. The Ford GT Le Mans Racer which was first showcased at the Detroit Auto show was also showcased at the Los Angeles Auto show in November. The vehicle will make its maiden race debut at the 24 Hours of Daytona in January next year. I

n Europe, it will make its racing debut at the 6 Hours of Silverstone on April 17^th next year. The vehicle will then make the most anticipated Le Mans debut in June. Unlike the 1960s heydays, the new GT will compete in the GTE-Pro Class which is for production-based cars but it will still face competition from the likes of Aston Martins and Ferraris.

You never know, Ford may be our best hope in ending the dominance of the European supercars at the race tracks yet again.

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The racing GT will compete at Le Mans in 2016 to mark the 50^th anniversary of the Ford’s GT clean podium swoop in the 1966 race. Unlike its ancestors, the new Ford GT will compete in the LM GTE Pro class. Only a limited number of road-going GT’s will be produced and Ford already says they are oversubscribed; actually only 250 units will be produced per year.

Ford GT Le Mans Racer Exterior

Until its launch, Ford had managed to keep the vehicle under wraps as only a handful of people were aware of its production. The vehicle was produced in a tiny basement room under lock as opposed to one of the studios in the auto maker’s design center.

The body is made from carbon-fiber which has translated to a good-power-to weight ratio. Compared to the road-going GT’s, only the trapezoid-shaped grille and vented hood look similar, the rest of the Racer’s body has been hooked up with modifications to improve its down force and to reduce its drag. At the front, there is a simple bumper, a huge splitter and a pair of canards on each side. There are also uniquely shaped new headlights. There are also plastic caps bolted on the body to resemble the original GT40.

The sides feature large side skirts that integrate exhaust outlets near the rear wheels. At the rear, the GT features a huge wing and its rear bumper has been cut off to make way for a wide diffuser culminating one of the most aggressive rear ends in the LM GTE cars if not the most aggressive.

The car is also wrapped with racing colors of red, white and blue and sponsor stickers together with 24 Hours of Le Mans” racing stickers.  It remains to be seen whether the vehicle is only a Lemans special or whether the car will be used in other championships. The vehicle will ride on 20-inch wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tyres.

Ford GT Le Mans Racer Interior

The cabin we saw during the Detroit debut was too loaded and crowded to take to the racing tracks though the auto maker has confirmed that over 80% of the features will make it to production of road-going models. Therefore, we expect the automaker to remove the main dash area, center console and door panels and replace them with racing gear.

To start with, the automaker will insert a full roll cage so as to comply with FIA’s safety requirements. Carbon-fiber will be a common feature in the Racer’s interior. The instrument cluster will be simplified and hooked up with a multi-function, racing steering wheel. Gone also will be the 2-tone sports seats on the road-going model.

It will be replaced by Alcantara-wrapped carbon-fiber seats which are suitable for racing. The seats will have 6-point harnesses.

Engine Specs and Performance

Ford is still tight-lipped about most details on Ford GT Le Mans Racer power-train. However, we know that the engine will be a 3.5 L, V6 EcoBoost unit. This engine was featured in the IMSA Daytona Prototype in 2014 and returned promising results. The automaker will hook up the engine with race-bred enhancements so as to attain a perfect mix of power and reliability to succeed in races it aims to compete in.

We expect the V-6 engine to deliver in excess of 500 hp. According to the auto maker, the racing car will be lighter than the road-going version.  The engine will be paired with a 7-speed dual –clutch automatic gear box and power will be channelled to rear wheels.

This pairing is expected to push the car to a 200 mph top speed with a 0-60 mph acceleration achieved less than 3 seconds.

Price and release date

The automaker is yet to release official information on the new Ford GT price or expected release date. However, we understand that the vehicle will be priced at around 250,000 pounds.

Competition

Unlike the sixties where it used to dominate the races, the 2016 Ford GT Le Mans Racer will meet other great race cars in its new LM GTE category. There will be the likes of Ferrari 458 Italia GT2 which is the car to beat; in fact it was the 2014 champion in this class at the 24 hours of Le Mans. The Ford GT will also contend with the Corvette C7.R which is another great racing car.

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