Just the other day Ford claimed sweet victory in the LM GTE Pro category at Le Mans 2016, beating the likes of Ferraris and other top-rated race cars. Ford has followed up the win with the release of a special edition version of the GT that goes back in history to honor its ancestor that claimed the first ever Ford Victory at Le Mans. The model dubbed the 2017 Ford GT66 Heritage Edition will be a limited production.
In the 1960s, Ferrari had dominated the 24 Hours of Le Mans and until Ford won the 1966 Edition, the race had never been won by an American company. Last year, at the Detroit Auto Show, Ford showcased the 2nd Generation GT to celebrate 50 years after its unique conquest.
Still on the celebrations, the automaker has now released another model specifically to honor the model that took the number one spot during the race. This was the black and silver finished GT40 Mark II Coupe driven by Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon. The new model is a modern interpretation of the iconic 1966 model. Read along to find out more:
2017 Ford GT66 Heritage edition Exterior
The 2017 Ford GT66 Heritage Edition is inspired by the GT40 Mark II which Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon drove to victory in 1966. The new model features its ancestor’s “shadow black” paintwork with silver stripes that run from its nose to the decklid.
The Shadow Black paint job is available in either matte or gloss which gives buyers something close to the original model. The matte finish particularly augurs well with the car’s exposed carbon-fiber package. The vehicle also features the number 2 graphics in Frozen White on its doors and hood. The model rides on a set of one-piece, 20-inch forged aluminum wheels. The wheels also wear a gold satin clear coat.
2017 Ford GT66 Heritage edition Interior
Compared to the standard GT, the GT66 Heritage Edition cabin has been hooked up with special features. To start with, the model features carbon-fiber seats which are upholstered with Ebony leather. The seats also feature pillowed inserts and a contrasting plow-through stitching which gives the cabin the all-unique vintage look.
Ebony leather is also used to wrap the instrument panel, headliner and pillars. The shift paddles, instrument panel and the seat’s X-brace feature a gold trim. Ford has placed the “GT’ logo on the steering wheel and headliners. A blue webbing similar to the 1966 model is used on the steering wheel and seat belts.
The cabin also features exposed matte carbon fiber center console and door sills. The door panels also feature “#2” graphics to remind you of the original GT40 Mark II that won the 1966 Le Mans.
Engine and performance
Under the hood, the GT66 Heritage Edition features the same mid-mounted engine as the standard GT. This is the twin-turbocharged 3.5 L. EcoBoost V-6 engine which produces over 600 hp.
The power is channeled to the rear wheels via a 7-speed, dual-clutch system with paddle shifters. The model becomes the first GT ever not to use a manual transmission system.
Price and release date
Ford has revealed that the GT66 Heritage edition will be offered in limited numbers; however, the automaker didn’t reveal the exact number. Ford is already accepting orders but bearing in mind these types of cars sell out in hours, you will be lucky to get one. The models will be delivered to dealerships in December.
Ford did not say anything about the model’s price. However, since the standard GT starts at $400,000, expect the GT66 Heritage edition to attract a price tag of over $450,000.
Competition
The 2017 GT66 Heritage edition will face rivalry from the Audi R8, McLaren P1 GTR and Acura NSX.
