Following the GT90 show car of 1995, the showstopping Ford GT concept debuted in 2002 to help celebrate the Blue Oval’s historic 2003 centennial. While certainly inspired by the GT40s that beat Ferrari at Le Mans in 1966 and dominated there through 1969, Ford’s new GT was far more than a mere design throwback. Powering the new GT was a midmounted, DOHC, 32-valve, 5.4L V-8 engine with all-aluminum construction. Mounting a Lysholm screw-type supercharger with intercooler, plus competition-type dry-sump lubrication, the engine pushed 550 HP through a 6-speed Ricardo gearbox/rear transaxle. Fully independent suspension and huge ventilated Brembo disc brakes rounded out the mechanicals. Each GT was produced along five distinct stages with initial assembly at Mayflower Vehicle Systems in Norwalk, Ohio, paint by Saleen Special Vehicles in Troy, Michigan, engine assembly at Ford’s plant in Romeo, Michigan, and then installation of the engine and transaxle, as well as interior finishing, at Wixom, Michigan. In observance of the 40th anniversary of the GT40’s first Le Mans triumph, Ford added the special, limited-edition Heritage paint scheme for 2006. Recalling the famous JW Automotive/Gulf Oil livery of the Le Mans-winning GT40s of 1968-69, the option was officially known as “Heritage Paint Livery Package (68G),” comprising Heritage Blue clearcoat with Epic Orange racing stripes adorning the hood, roof and rear deck, plus white vinyl roundels on the doors, hood and decklid. The Heritage package was available only in 2006 with an option cost of $13,000 and specified on just 343 cars, including this collector-grade example with just over 177 miles. The ebony leather interior includes the optional, high-end McIntosh stereo system, and other highlights include Gunmetal Gray brake calipers and BBS lightweight aluminum wheels mounting Goodyear Eagle tires. The original Optima battery remains in place, and the GT benefits from recent service at a Ford dealership with Lamborghini tech. All transport stickers remain in place, including over the GT emblem on the steering wheel. Documents include the window sticker, original MSO, a Marti Report, service receipts and a clean CarFax. Owned since new by Christian McCarter, this rare 2006 Ford GT Heritage Edition is among the finest and lowest-mileage examples in existence. THE DR. J. CHRISTIAN AND JENNIFER McCARTER COLLECTION
