As a dedicated automotive journalist, it’s crucial to be transparent about my history with the Ford Gt. My personal journey includes owning a 2005 Ford GT for over a decade, accumulating 30,000 miles before passing it on to fellow enthusiast Doug DeMuro. Furthermore, I am currently the proud owner of a 2019 Ford GT Carbon Series. This dual ownership provides a unique perspective when comparing the iconic 2005 Ford GT and the cutting-edge new Ford GT. While this firsthand experience offers deep insight, it’s also fair to acknowledge a potential for bias. Consider this full disclosure as we delve into a detailed comparison of what many consider to be two of the most extraordinary vehicles ever conceived.
2005 Ford GT Victorville
Having issued that caveat, let’s explore the fascinating world of the Ford GT, a nameplate synonymous with American supercar prowess. My long-term experience with the 2005 Ford GT, spanning 13 years and 31,000 miles, shaped my appreciation for its robust nature and everyday usability. Acquired brand new from Santa Monica Ford on August 23rd, 2005, with a mere 7 miles on the clock, my 2005 GT became a trusted companion. Remarkably, the odometer clicked past the 30,000-mile mark during a late-night drive across Utah, returning from the new Ford GT press launch in Salt Lake City. This journey, undertaken to avoid Los Angeles traffic after a full day of driving and filming, underscores my approach to supercar ownership – these machines are built to be driven.
2005 Ford GT Driving Utah Press Launch
This anecdote highlights my philosophy: a car, regardless of its pedigree, should perform as a car. I have little patience for garage queens. The 2005 Ford GT consistently exceeded expectations in this regard. I know of owners who have clocked nearly 150,000 miles on their GTs, a testament to their inherent durability. My own drive to Utah and back involved navigating strong crosswinds, torrential rain, and even a hailstorm – a first for me in the GT. Yet, the car remained unflappable, exhibiting none of the skittishness sometimes associated with high-performance vehicles in adverse conditions.
2005 Ford GT Hail Storm
Adding to the 2005 Ford GT’s credentials, it even received track time at the new Ford GT press launch, piloted by Ford factory racing driver Billy Johnson. A key development driver for the new GT but unfamiliar with its predecessor, Johnson experienced the 2005 model firsthand. After several spirited laps, characterized by more sideways action than straight-line driving, Billy delivered his enthusiastic verdict: “What a pure machine.” The 2005 Ford GT, therefore, isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a driver’s car through and through.
2005 Ford GT: Core Driving Experience
The 2005 Ford GT boasts steering that is both remarkably precise and communicative. While perhaps not quite reaching the telepathic feedback levels of a Ferrari or Porsche, it comes incredibly close, instilling confidence and making high-speed driving, whether on the track or open road, remarkably accessible. The Ricardo 6-speed manual transmission is a standout feature, often cited as one of the finest three-pedal setups ever created. Shifts are swift and intuitive, requiring minimal effort. Clutch feel and pedal placement are equally well-considered, offering ample footwell space and clutch pedal pressure akin to a modern Mustang GT or BMW sedan. Heel-and-toe downshifts become second nature in this ergonomically sound cockpit.
2005 Ford GT Billy Johnson Karl
Coupled with a broad and potent torque curve, the 2005 Ford GT’s responsive controls create a surprisingly user-friendly supercar experience, even when driven aggressively. Its 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine, featuring an aluminum block and heads, and a dry-sump oil system, delivers a potent 550 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque in stock form. My car, enhanced with a Ford Performance/Borla exhaust, smaller supercharger pulley, and computer re-flash, pushed output to approximately 700 horsepower at the crank, as dyno-tested at 618 rear-wheel horsepower. Stock performance figures were already impressive, with 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 11.8 seconds at 124 mph. Modifications shaved those times to 3.5 seconds and 11.6 seconds at 126 mph, respectively. While top speed was factory-rated at 205 mph, my modified GT’s potential remains untested, though many owners have validated the stock figure. Remarkably, even with this performance, the 2005 Ford GT achieves over 20 mpg on the highway and averaged 17 mpg over my 12-year, 30,000-mile ownership.
In its era, the mid-2000s, the Ford GT stood among the quickest cars available. A heavily modified 2006 Ford GT, boasting a staggering 2,000 horsepower, currently holds the Texas Mile world record at over 300 mph. However, fixating solely on performance numbers overlooks the 2005 Ford GT’s broader appeal. Its enduring strengths lie in its reliability, low maintenance demands, reasonable running costs, exceptional comfort for a supercar, and timeless styling. Decades from now, the 2005 Ford GT will undoubtedly remain an automotive icon, its design still captivating enthusiasts.
Ford GT School Willow Springs Turn 4
The very existence of the 2005-2006 Ford GT, conceived and executed under significant time and financial pressures at Ford, is a remarkable achievement. This context explains the model’s consistent appreciation in value since production ceased in October 2006.
The New Ford GT: A Race Car for the Road
The 2005 and 2006 Ford GT set an exceptionally high benchmark for any successor. Understanding Ford’s objectives for the new Ford GT is crucial when comparing the two. Unlike its predecessor, a road car celebrating the GT40 legacy, the new Ford GT was explicitly engineered for racing success, primarily targeting victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2016 – fifty years after the original GT40’s historic win. As racing enthusiasts know, the new GT achieved this mission, securing 1st, 3rd, and 4th places at the 2016 Le Mans 24 Hours.
Red and silver GT on track
But what does this racing focus translate to in the new Ford GT street car? Ford couldn’t simply rest on its Le Mans laurels. To maintain eligibility for racing programs, homologation rules necessitate the production of street-legal versions. Ford continued racing the GT while producing approximately 1,350 street models over four years. With a price tag around $500,000 and a selective, concierge-based purchasing process, the new Ford GT commands a significant investment, even considering its racing pedigree. Is it justified?
In short, yes. Attending the press launch as a future owner, I was particularly keen to assess the new Ford GT’s execution. My initial impressions confirmed Ford’s narrative: it’s a street-legal race car, albeit slightly tamed for road use. From its 100 percent carbon-fiber monocoque and body panels to carbon-ceramic brakes, and the snug interior with fixed driver’s seat, every element is optimized for performance. Those expecting a grand touring experience akin to the 2005-2006 GT may find the new model a departure.
New Ford GT Suspension Illustration
However, judged as a street-legal race car, the new Ford GT exhibits surprising civility. Ride quality benefits significantly from its sophisticated pushrod suspension, offering five driver-selectable modes and a ride height range from 4.70 to 2.75 inches. In “Wet,” “Normal,” or “Sport” modes, the GT maintains a 4.7-inch ride height, providing ride comfort comparable to an Aston Martin or Corvette.
New Ford GT Liquid Red VMAX Mode
Engaging “Track” or “V-MAX” modes lowers the car by nearly 2 inches and stiffens the suspension dramatically. This transformation is achieved by effectively disengaging one of the springs in these modes, relying on an electronically adjustable damper and torsion bar. This technology also incorporates an instantaneous front-end lift function for navigating driveways or uneven surfaces.
Ford GT Gauge Cluster VMAX Mode
Another concession to real-world usability is the Getrag 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Unlike the manual-only 2005 Ford GT, the new model offers effortless automatic operation in stop-and-go traffic, particularly in “Wet” and “Normal” modes. Gear changes are swift and seamless. “Sport,” “Track,” or “V-Max” modes hold gears for enhanced power delivery and acceleration. Manual control is readily accessible via paddle shifters and the “M” button on the center console.
Liquid Rad and Silver New Ford GT
Despite these concessions to daily driving, the new Ford GT remains unequivocally a race car at heart. Stepping inside reinforces this impression.
New Ford GT Interior Black
The fixed driver’s seat, positioned intimately close to the passenger seat, immediately signals its performance focus. Interior space is at a premium; accommodating two large occupants simultaneously is unlikely. Instead of seat adjustment, the steering wheel (with 16 integrated controls) and pedal box adjust to suit drivers of varying sizes. Even so, drivers exceeding 6’4″ may find headroom limited. Similarly, those over 200 pounds should experience the cockpit firsthand before committing to purchase.
New Ford GT Engine in a Liquid Red Car
These snug dimensions are a direct consequence of the GT’s narrow carbon-fiber passenger cell, situated just ahead of the compact 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. This twin-turbocharged, dry-sump aluminum block produces 647 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 550 pound-feet of torque at 5,900 rpm. Its narrow configuration is integral to the GT’s aerodynamic strategy, enabling a tightly sculpted body that maximizes airflow to intakes and through the dramatic flying buttresses. Combined with an active rear spoiler and front grille vents, the new Ford GT generates significant downforce in “Track” mode and optimizes airflow for its 216 mph top speed in “V-Max” mode.
New Ford GT Liquid Red Rear End
More compelling than its top speed is the instantaneous power delivery of the V6 engine. In “Sport,” “Track,” or “V-Max” modes, the turbos remain spooled, providing immediate thrust and bestowing muscle car-like throttle response, achieving sub-3-second 0-60 mph times. The engine note is equally captivating, delivering a resonant and powerful exhaust sound that fills the cabin. Cabin noise levels at highway speeds might deter some from extended journeys, a trade-off for the GT’s svelte 3,100-pound curb weight, which Ford prioritized over additional sound deadening.
Black Orange Ford GT Driving
Despite Ford’s efforts to ensure owners drive their new Ford GTs, many are likely to spend more time stationary. This would be unfortunate, as the new Ford GT shares the 2005 model’s most endearing quality: engaging driving dynamics. At its limits, the new GT provides exceptional feedback through its precise hydraulic steering and supportive seats. Pushing hard reveals a communicative chassis, telegraphing its limits and allowing for controlled slides, especially with traction and stability controls relaxed. However, its immense speed potential demands constant vigilance of the speedometer.
Owning and driving a $500,000-plus supercar to its full potential isn’t for everyone, but the new Ford GT rewards those who do with an exhilarating and uniquely engaging driving experience.
Conclusion: Two Ford GTs, Two Distinct Supercar Philosophies
While the new Ford GT represents a leap forward in technology and track-focused performance, the 2005 Ford GT retains its charm through its analog feel and accessible driving dynamics. Its communicative controls translate to confident driving, earning it my “sweetheart” designation for its playful nature and forgiving character. While any supercar demands respect, the 2005 Ford GT uniquely communicates its limits through the steering, shifter, and chassis, allowing drivers to confidently explore its performance envelope.
Both generations of the Ford GT stand as remarkable achievements. The fact that Ford conceived and produced the 2005-2006 GT under duress is astounding, explaining its enduring appeal and appreciating value. The new Ford GT, purpose-built to conquer Le Mans, successfully blends cutting-edge technology with raw performance, creating a truly special, albeit more demanding, supercar experience. Ultimately, both Ford GT models represent different interpretations of the American supercar, each offering a unique and compelling proposition for discerning enthusiasts.
