2018
FORD GT
Designed for Speed and Performance. From the Ground Up.
Whether on the road or on the track, every single element of the Ford GT was designed to deliver the extraordinary speed and exceptional handling found only in purpose-built racing cars.
While numerous vehicles claim to be a 'race car for the road,' only a few come close to matching the level of technological transfer achieved by Ford in the development of their latest GT model. The primary objective behind its creation was to reclaim victory at the prestigious 24 hours of Le Mans race, and to accomplish this, Ford assembled a small, meticulously chosen team of engineers who operated in complete secrecy. Without the hindrance of committees and armed with a clear goal, this team successfully produced an exceptionally advanced carbon fiber monocoque chassis, incorporating cutting-edge aerodynamics that played a pivotal role in Ford's attainment of their competitive objective. Remarkably, even before the road-ready GT entered production, two Chip Ganassi Racing editions secured First and Third positions in the LM GTE Pro class at Le Mans, exactly fifty years after the original GT40 achieved its initial triumph on the legendary circuit.
Engine.
The 2018 Ford GT is equipped with a remarkable engine that reflects its high-performance nature. The heart of this supercar is a mid-mounted, twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. It is a direct-injection powerplant that combines advanced technology with impressive power output.
It generates 647 horsepower and 550 pound-feet of torque, making it one of the most powerful production engines ever produced.
The engine's design and engineering allow it to provide instant acceleration and a top speed of 216 mph or 347 km/h.
To ensure optimal efficiency and power delivery, the engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This transmission enables seamless and lightning-fast gear shifts, enhancing the overall driving experience.
The 2018 Ford GT engine also features various advanced technologies to enhance performance and responsiveness. It incorporates a sophisticated fuel injection system, variable camshaft timing, and a dry-sump lubrication system. These technologies contribute to precise fuel delivery, improved engine responsiveness, and enhanced overall engine performance.
Overall, the engine of the 2018 Ford GT is a masterpiece of engineering, combining cutting-edge technology, impressive power, and exceptional performance characteristics. It is a testament to Ford's commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering and delivering an unforgettable driving experience.
"We started with aerodynamic efficiency - the efficiency of racing goes right down to the very core of its existence. Aero came first then we picked the most efficient EcoBoost engine we could find for that package."
Jamal Hameedi, Ford Performance's chief engineer.
Exterior.
The 2018 Ford GT is a stunning supercar that captivates car enthusiasts with its distinctive and aerodynamic exterior design. Inspired by the iconic Ford GT40, which achieved great success in the 1960s, the 2018 Ford GT pays homage to its predecessor while incorporating modern advancements in automotive engineering. The Aerodynamics and Chassis package were the key focus when building the GT, it had to be fast on track and win the ultimate race, Le Mans. The GT really is a true race car which has been modified to be a road car.
At first glance, the Ford GT's low-slung profile and aggressive stance demand attention. Every curve and line on the bodywork is purposeful, contributing to the car's aerodynamic efficiency and visual appeal. The design language is a seamless blend of contemporary styling and classic GT40 heritage, resulting in a timeless and captivating presence.
The front of the Ford GT features a prominent carbon fiber splitter and a wide-mouthed grille. The large air intakes on either side of the grille ensure efficient cooling for the engine and brakes, while also enhancing aerodynamic performance. Slim, swept-back LED headlights flank the grille, giving the car an intense and focused appearance.
Moving along the sides, the GT's body is sculpted to minimize drag and optimize downforce. The sleek, flowing lines sweep back from the front guards, tapering towards the rear. The doors swing upward in a striking gullwing fashion, adding to the car's dramatic and exotic appeal. The lightweight carbon fiber construction further contributes to the vehicle's performance and efficiency. In a number of the photos below you can actually see the carbon weave under the paint.
One of the defining features of the 2018 Ford GT is its flying buttresses. These structural elements extend from the roofline to the rear arches, enhancing stability and directing airflow. The striking flying buttresses on the GT serve a vital aerodynamic function, directing airflow around the sleek teardrop-shaped canopy and over the rear spoiler. Positioned below these buttresses, just ahead of the rear wheel arch, is an intake that efficiently channels air to the turbo intercoolers. The resulting air is then expelled through the the centre of the distinctive bullseye rear lights, creating a seamless blend of form and function. The rear section of the GT showcases a large rear wing that automatically adjusts based on driving conditions, providing additional downforce when needed.
The rear of the Ford GT is dominated by a full-width carbon fiber diffuser, which aids in aerodynamic efficiency and generates high levels of downforce. Dual exit exhaust pipes are positioned in the centre, emitting a throaty and exhilarating exhaust note. This GT has the optional extra Titanium exhaust ($10,000 USD option) which further adds to the sound and look.
The exterior design is not just about aesthetics but also serves as a testament to the car's engineering prowess, showcasing Ford's commitment to performance, aerodynamics, and pushing the boundaries of automotive design.
In summary, the 2018 Ford GT's exterior design is a harmonious blend of classic inspiration and modern engineering. From its aggressive front to its aerodynamic body lines and attention-grabbing rear wing, every element of the car's exterior is meticulously crafted to enhance performance, capture attention, and evoke a sense of exhilaration for both the driver and onlookers.
Interior.
The interior comes finished in the optional ‘Dark Energy Upgrade Package’, a $30,000.00 USD option. Unlike many supercars it’s surprisingly easy getting in and out of the GT. The recaro carbon seats are extremely supportive and are fixed in place with the driver having adjustable pedals and steering column. A thumbwheel on the steering wheel is used to choose from the car’s drive modes. These include the following;
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If a 647 horsepower, 216 mph supercar can be classified as ‘normal’ then this is the mode you need. It will keep the cars ground clearance set to 120mm, ideal for everyday driving. Both the accelerator and gearbox are configured for ‘standard’ driving in this mode. The rear wing will automatically come up over 90 mph and will hideaway again at 81 mph. In normal mode the rear wing still works as an air brake, if you hit the brakes hard at speed it will come up.
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For those times when you caught out in terrible weather, this mode will die down the accelerators sensitivity to deal with the slippery conditions. Launch control is not available and all stability controls are on and cannot be turned off.
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Now we’re talking, we feel this is how most would drive the GT 90% of the time. In sports mode, the V6 gets anti-lag, which as in the Le Mans GT - keeps the turbos spinning to make sure the car never comes off boost. Giving you maximum power, all of the time. Stability and traction control systems are also unleashed, giving you an additional 3 levels of adjustment. Ride height remains at 120mm as in Wet and Normal mode. The rear wing will now activate over 70 mph. Overall this mode will give a more aggressive setup to both the acceleration and gear changes.
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The obvious choice for a dash around any of a brilliant tracks here in New Zealand. In this mode the ride height will drop a further 50mm, spring rates and dampers are set to their hardest settings. The rear wing will be activated and the aero flaps at the front will close up for maximum down force. In this mode the car is fully optimised for track use only.
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If you can find the space and fancy getting over 200 mph then this is the mode. The car will stay at the same ride height as in track mode with all stability controls on and aero elements hidden away to minimise drag.
Along with being able to switch between the different driving modes, you also have access to features like voice command and cruise control from the steering wheel. Indicators and wipers are also controlled from here. With this being a Ford, you benefit from the fact they have made millions of cars and features like bluetooth and navigation work perfectly. Quite often when you buy an exotic car from a small manufacture these can be average at best. This GT also benefits from having Fordpass conectivity, meaning you can track the vehicle, remote start etc. Easy to hand between driver and passenger is the hydraulic lift system which raises the car by 2 inches, great for steep inclines and speed humps. With the system being Hydraulic it instantly raises the front of the car and drops once pushed again. With many supercars these systems run on a compressor and can take up to 30 seconds to raise.
The interior of the GT provides a delightful and comfortable environment equipped with all the modern conveniences you would anticipate. Given its origin as a race car, sitting inside the GT truly immerses you in a racing experience. All the controls like aircon etc are easy to adjust on the go, nice and simple so you can just enjoy the driving experience.
Enhancing the race car ambiance is the inclusion of a rev shift indicator cleverly integrated into the top of the steering wheel. This feature adds to the immersive experience, making you feel even more connected to the exhilarating performance of the GT.
History.
Included with the car is the original GT design spec ordering kit, it’s a beautiful carbon fiber box with a latch identical to the one used on the engine lid of the GT race car. Inside, you'll find body colour blanks, scale-model wheels, and interior swatches. Virtually every surface on the GT could be ordered in a custom colour when new, these samples helped customers to spec their cars to perfection. Also included are photos of the actual car going through various stages of the build process at the Multimatic Niche Vehicle plant in Markham, Ontario, Canada.
Photographs below also show the build sheet which lists all standard equipment and extras fitted on this GT.
A thank you letter from Dave Pericak (Global Director of Ford Performance) at the time of build and Henry Ford III (Global Marketing Manager of Ford Performance) also included.
Standard Equipment.
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AERO OPTIMIZED EXT DESIGN
CARBON FIBER PASSENGER SHELL, BODY PANELS, DOORS, BONNET, WINGS, FRONT/REAR FASCIAS, FRONT SPLITTER, REAR DIFFUSER & UNDERBODY AERO-SHIELDS.
FORGED ALUMINIUM WHEELS (20” X 8.5” FRONT, 20” X 11.5” REAR)
MICHELIN PILOT SPORT CUP 2 TIRES, FRONT 245/35 R20, REAR 325/30 R20
TAIL LAMPS W/ INT AERO / HEAT EXTRACTION
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SERIALIZED IP BADGE
F1- INSPIRED STEERING WHEEL INC: EBONY ALCANTARA WRAPPED, LED REV COUNTER, MATTE CARBON BEZEL, ADJUSTABLE TELESCOPING STALKLESS COLUMN W/TILT
FIXED CARBON FIBER SPARCO SEATS W/MANUAL RECLINE FUNCTIONALITY, ALCANTARA WRAPPED BOLSTERS, DARK STAINLESS MATTE PAINTED X-BRACE
ANODIZED BLACK ALUMINIUM SHIFT PADDLES
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MID-MOUNT 3.5L V6 GTDI ENG
7-SPEED DUAL CLUTCH TRANS
BREMBO CARBON CERAMIC BRAKES
ELECTRONIC ACTIVE DAMPING
CARBON FIBER PASSENGER SHELL
PUSH BUTTON ACTIVATED FRONT LIFT SYSTEM
SPEED-ACTIVATED: SPLITTER, KEEL DEPLOYABLE REAR WING & AIRBRAKE
FORD PERFORMANCE APP COMPATIBILITY
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6 POINT HARNESS ANCHORS $3,000.00 USD
EXT CARBON FIBER PKG - MATTE $15,000.00 USD
DARK ENERGY INT UPGRADE PKG $30,000.00 USD
LEATHER WRAPPED STEERING WHEEL $250.00 USD
RED BRAKE CALIPERS $1,000.00 USD
20” MATTE EXPOSED CARBON FIBER ALLOYS $15,000.00 USD
TITANIUM LUG NUTS $1,000.00 USD TITANIUM EXHAUST $10,000.00 USD
BLACK FORD GT INDOOR COVER $750.00 USD