Thursday, November 7, 2024

Ford GT Shmeemobile/Le Mans Racer/Heritage Edition (2017-24)

 








Featured in this post are a few different versions of the latest Ford GT supercar. It was originally unveiled in 2015 and entered production in 2016. Motivating the second-generation Ford GT is a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 with 647 horsepower and 550 pound-feet of torque paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. It launches from zero to 60 mph in three seconds and is capable of a top speed of 216 mph. Distinct styling elements of the newest Ford GT consist of flying buttresses, or open airflow tunnels infused into the rear fenders of the vehicle, an active rear spoiler, two large exhaust tailpipes located right below the rear spoiler, two large vents in the hood, a nose inspired by that of the original GT40, and two large circular taillights, all of which are functional, gorgeous, and suit this vehicle very well. 

The first two Ford GT examples pictured above this text were displayed at Exotics on Broadway in Monterey this year, specifically the Le Mans race car from 2016 and a special road-going GT example. The former of these two was one of two race cars displayed by Velocity Invitational and marked Ford's long-awaited return to the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race in 50 years since Ford first entered the GT40 to compete at Le Mans in 1966. This particular racing version has been further stripped down from its road-going counterpart and adds other enhancements such as a massive fixed rear wing, a stiffer suspension, and an extended front splitter, side skirts, and rear diffuser. In addition, the Ford GT race car was a top-two finisher in its class at Le Mans in 2016 and 2017. The second Ford GT pictured in this post and on display at this year's Exotics on Broadway is one of several Shmeemobiles, or cars owned by British automotive YouTuber Tim Burton, also known as Shmee150. This specific example is finished in crimson red with yellow-orange double-line center stripes and one of two Shmeemobiles present at Monterey Car Week this year, with the other Shmeemobile that made its way to Monterey from the UK being a 2024 Mustang Dark Horse. 





As for the third second-gen Ford GT pictured in this post, it is a Heritage Edition from 2019 finished in the famous light blue and orange Gulf Oil livery with no. 9 graphics on the hood and front fenders of the vehicle. This specific Ford GT Heritage Edition honors the 50th anniversary of the back-to-back wins by the GT40 Mk I at Le Mans in 1968 and 1969, with only 50 examples of the 2019 Heritage Edition in existence. I saw this particular Ford GT Heritage Edition at my local Porsche Club Cars & Coffee early last month, marking my first time in over two years seeing it up close. This one was also the coolest and most notable car to show up at last month's PCA Cars & Coffee. Back to the second-gen Ford GT in general, production for its road-going variant concluded in 2022, while Mk III and Mk IV racing-only versions were added to the second-gen Ford GT portfolio in 2023 and 2024 respectively. Pre-owned examples are currently selling for between roughly $900,000 and just over $1 million on the resale market. Overall, the second-generation Ford GT is one of the coolest and most impressive Fords and American cars ever made, and I am grateful to have seen three different examples of it in two different car show settings for the first time in over two years. 

Discover your next favorite outfit at the CPF Store! With our wide selection of stylish and comfortable clothing, you can express your unique style while feeling amazing. Shop now and elevate your wardrobe with the latest trends and timeless classics. Don't miss out - embrace fashion that speaks to you at the CPF Store by clicking the link here: CPF Store  

 

No comments:

Post a Comment