Chassis No. 1FAFP90S16Y400600

The second-generation Ford GT emerged as a bold homage to the iconic GT40, paying tribute to Ford's historic victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the 1960s. Conceived initially as a concept car in 2002 under the guidance of J Mays, Ford's Chief Creative Officer at the time, the GT's design captured the essence of automotive nostalgia and retrofuturism prevalent in the early 2000s. This strategic move formed part of Ford's broader marketing approach, which included reviving other legendary models like the Mustang, to reignite enthusiasts' passion while showcasing the company's commitment to innovation and performance. Debuting in 2004, the production version of the GT stayed true to its concept, blending classic design elements with modern engineering and technology. Its sleek lines, mid-engine layout, and potent powertrain not only honored the GT40's legacy but also pushed the boundaries of contemporary automotive engineering.

Despite its striking resemblance to the original GT40, the second-generation GT diverged significantly from its predecessor in terms of technical design. With nearly four decades separating the two, it was unsurprising that the modern GT departed from the original's technical underpinnings. Instead of relying on a steel monocoque chassis, which was characteristic of the 1960s era, Ford opted for a lightweight aluminum spaceframe for the 21st-century supercar. This contemporary approach incorporated 35 extrusions and seven complex castings, a departure from the simpler construction methods of the past. Additionally, the GT featured a combination of superplastic and aluminum body panels, deviating from the two-piece fiberglass shell used in the GT40. An ingenious design choice was integrating the fuel cell into the chassis center section, improving both safety and handling by centralizing mass and compensating for the effects of reduced fuel load on the car's balance.

To uphold the spirit of its predecessor, the new GT employed a high-performance iteration of Ford's versatile MOD (Modular) engine family. The 5.4-liter V8 powerplant featured four-cam valve operation, a single Eaton screw-type supercharger, and delivered an impressive 550 horsepower. Paired with a rear-mounted, Ricardo-engineered six-speed transaxle, the GT's drivetrain was engineered with bespoke ratios, a torque-sensing limited-slip differential, and a twin-plate clutch.

The chassis dynamics of the new GT were meticulously engineered, featuring conventional unequal length wishbones on all four corners along with aluminum monotube coilover shock absorbers. Both front and rear sway bars were employed to enhance stability and cornering prowess. For braking performance, the GT was equipped with Brembo four-piston monoblock calipers and substantial cross-drilled, ventilated discs, providing remarkable stopping power. This braking system was further augmented by the inclusion of ABS and Ford's Electronic Brake Force Distribution technology, ensuring progressive deployment even at near-maximum speeds.

The exterior design of the new GT masterfully echoed the motorsport heritage of its predecessor. While slightly taller and wider than the original, GT Chief Designer Camilo Pardo adeptly translated the essence of the GT40 into a contemporary context. Attention to detail was paramount, with numerous design elements paying homage to the iconic predecessor. From the exterior lights to the twin-nostril front cowl, perforated seat cushions, flush-fitting side windows, and dashboard treatment, each aspect was sensitively updated to meet the demands of the 21st century while preserving the spirit of the legendary GT40.

Among the select group of 2006-specification GTs, this vehicle emerges as one of only 69 ordered in the eye-catching color scheme of Speed Yellow with full stripes. Adding to this car's appeal of its vibrant livery with the optional painted stripes is the fact that it was ordered with two of the most desirable options-the McIntosh audio system and the BBS Lightweight forged aluminum wheels. In total, these three highly sought-after options added an additional $12,850 atop the $150,000 base price.

Incredibly, this Ford GT has remained impeccably preserved for the past 16 years, maintaining its factory-original condition. With fewer than 12 miles shown on the odometer at the time of cataloging, it presents virtually untouched from the moment it completed final assembly. Notably, the pre-delivery stickers remain firmly affixed to the windshield, further accentuating its highly preserved state, along with its original window sticker, bill of sale, car cover, battery tender, and owner's manual. This 2006 Ford GT stands as a testament to meticulous preservation, offering a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive history in its purest form.