Ford GT Marks Return of a Supercar Icon
[one_fourth]
[/one_fourth][three_fourth_last]What is it? Ford took the wraps of the latest incarnation of their legendary supercar in Detroit, with a seductively styled carbon-fiber body that looks thoroughly modern while invoking the look of the original Ford GT race car that dominated Le Mans road racing 50 years ago.
Powered by a twin-turbo V6 engine producing more than 600 horsepower and paired with a seven–speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission, the GT gets the same mid-engine and rear-wheel drive configuration as the original race car and the limited-production street GT of 2005 and 2006.
Thanks to extensive use of lightweight carbon fiber and aluminum construction, combined with direct injection and other technological improvements to the next-generation 3.5-liter Eco-Boost V6 turbo, Ford is promising one of the best power-to-weight ratios of any production car. The GT gets a wealth of high-tech aerodynamic aids, including an active suspension with adjustable ride height, and a rear spoiler that deploys and adjusts its height and angle based on conditions and driver input.
What’s new or notable: Inside, the two-seat cabin gets a Formula 1 racing-inspired steering wheel that integrates all major driver controls, eliminating conventional stalks for lights or directional signals. A configurable digital instrument cluster allows drivers to choose driving environments and modes.
CR’s take: Those of us who had a chance to drive the last GT still carry a torch for it. The new one looks like a worthy successor, with a familiar look and an updated powertrain and safety features. Ford CEO Mark Fields says the automaker was quested with “using innovation to create the ultimate Ford performance vehicle.” Mission accomplished. With its carbon-ceramic brakes, carbon-fiber body panels, and carbon fiber structure, this 600+ hp beast has just topped our Super Lotto list.
When will it be available? Late 2016.
