A stunning, high-spec example of the first-generation Ford GT supercar is now up for auction.
Listed for sale via Bonhams Online, it represents a rare opportunity to buy a UK-registered version of the mid-engined machine.
Potential buyers will need to move quickly though, as the GT is open for bids now, and has already generated plenty of interest.
Inspired by a Le Mans legend
First revealed at the 2002 Detroit Motor Show as the GT40 Concept, the retro-styled supercar was an unashamed tribute to Ford’s classic Le Mans winner.
Given the rapturous reception to the GT40 Concept, Ford pushed ahead with a production model, although it lacked permission to use the GT40 name. Instead, the modern offering would be branded simply as ‘GT’.
The first examples entered production in June 2004, with just over 4,000 cars built by the time the last model left the line in September 2006.
Around 100 cars were earmarked for Europe, and only 27 came to the UK, making them a real rarity on this side of the Atlantic.
Jeremy Clarkson was one of the GT’s most high-profile British buyers, although he famously asked for his money back from Ford after suffering repeated problems with the car’s alarm system.
To 200mph and beyond
At the heart of the Ford GT is a supercharged 5.4-litre V8. Unkind observers have pointed out the humble origins of the ‘Modular’ engine, which is related that of the Ford F-150 pick-up truck.
However, the engine fitted to the GT is uprated with an all-aluminium block, four valves per cylinder and a dry sump oil system. A large Eaton supercharger also helps elevate its output to a 550hp, combined with a brawny 500lb ft of torque.
Fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox, the GT can accelerate from 0-60mph in around 3.5 seconds, and reach a top speed of 205mph.
All the GT options ticked
Taken from the end of the production run, this particular GT is one of 317 examples painted in Mark II Black with silver twin racing stripes.
Ford offered only limited options for the GT, with buyers able to specify BBS alloy wheels, red-painted brake calipers and a McIntosh sound system. Luckily, this car had all three boxes ticked when new.
First delivered to a Canadian buyer, the left-hand-drive GT was imported to the UK in 2014. Currently showing around 23,500 miles on the odometer, it was last serviced 1,000 miles ago. It comes with the original dealership window sticker, owner’s manuals and a breakdown of recent maintenance work.
The ultimate fast Ford?
Although the later, second-generation Ford GT may be faster, the V8 engine and GT40-style retro look of this car make it a popular with collectors.
With so few examples available in the UK, Bonhams has given the Ford a guide price of between £220,000 and £240,000.
Several bids have already been placed in the online auction for the GT, with the sale set to run until Wednesday 20 March 2024.
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