Following the GT90 show car of 1995, the showstopping Ford GT concept debuted in 2002 in celebration of the Blue Oval’s 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 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, producing 550 BHP, driving 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 Norwalk, Ohio’s Mayflower Vehicle Systems, paint by Saleen Special Vehicles in Troy, Michigan, engine assembly at Ford’s Romeo, Michigan, plant, and then installation of the engine, transaxle and 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).” The Heritage package was available only in 2006 and specified on just 343 cars as a $13,000 option—including this unmodified and highly original example with the odometer reading 376 miles. Previously part of a private collection, it also features an engine brace autographed by Camilo Pardo, the lead designer of the Ford GT. Power is delivered by a supercharged 5.4L/550 HP V-8 engine, featuring a forged crankshaft, H-beam rods and aluminum pistons, paired to a Ricardo 6-speed manual transmission and limited slip differential. Other technical highlights include Brembo 4-wheel disc brakes, the special aluminum space frame and body panels, a double-wishbone SLA suspension with coilovers, an underbody aerodynamic system and power rack- and-pinion steering. The two-seat interior features a polished aluminum shift knob, air conditioning, power windows and locks, and audiophile McIntosh stereo system. Gray-painted brake calipers reside behind BBS forged alloy wheels. Capable of explosive performance, exceedingly rare and unforgettably finished, this 2006 Ford GT Heritage Edition is collector-grade with exceptionally low mileage.
