Fords 2017 GT

Ford seamlessly blew the 2016 Detroit Auto Show competition out of the water with the re-release of not one but two iconic superstars: the fierce Raptor and the even fiercer GT. The 2017 GT is a throwback of the 2005 GT at its core- which itself was a reboot of the original GT40 race car from the 60’s. It may be a throwback, but there’s nothing classic about it. In fact, it looks more like the future batmobile than a competitor in the standard sports car market.

The structure of the GT is mainly composed of super strong and lightweight carbon fiber- material typically used in elite race cars. This lightweight body is a large contributor is the GT’s cutting-edge speed. The GT is Fords fastest production car ever built; going from 0-60 in just 2.9 seconds and zooms at a whopping top speed of 216 mph.

There are 5 driving modes for the GT. Wet mode offers sumptuous suspension for soft dampening on rough roads as well as softer throttle response. ABS and traction control are the most sensitive in this mode. Normal mode retains Wet modes suspension and aerodynamics but has default throttle response and transmission shifting.

Move into Sport mode and the seven speed dual clutch transmission moves into more aggressive shifting that employs sensors and yaw detection (like a plane) to anticipate spirited cornering and optimize throttle response. ABS, traction, and stability are slightly loosened. Track mode, which is pertinently recommended to be used solely on the track, employs the full suite of aerodynamic devices and the suspension visibly drops the height. The nose shutters flip closed and the rear wing rises- hydraulically, therefore jaw-dropping-ly. The wing also works as an air brake as it flips forward for additional drag during hard stops. 

Vmax mode (vmax is car-speak for maximum velocity) calls up a further lowered ride height and firmer spring and damper settings of Track mode, but leaves all the aero devices in their lowest drag settings. This mode is designed to hit the top speed and is also intended to leave you speechless.

Ford will be releasing approximately 1,000 GTs onto the market in total- expected to produce and sell 250 per year. Combined with an insane starting price of $450,000, this GT is perhaps the most exclusive and sought after Ford yet to be released. Ford has carefully selected 500 of the 7,000 applicants based on their assumptions of who will enjoy the car as it was intended to the upmost potential.

“The purchase process for the Ford GT is as unique as our all-new supercar,” said Henry Ford III, global marketing manager, Ford Performance. “We understand GT customers are strong ambassadors for Ford Motor Company, and we look forward to providing them a service as distinct as the car itself.”