Keeping the GT supercar fresh, Ford is adding more power for 2020, a titanium exhaust, and a revised version of the Gulf Racing livery. It also gets a new Liquid Carbon option that puts the carbon fibre body on display for all to see.
The first update is a boost for the GT's 3.5L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6. Power is up from 647 to 660 hp, and that comes with a wider torque band thanks to a host of upgrades. Ford says it's learned from the track-only GT Mk II, so has added gallery-cooled pistons, higher-energy ignition coils, and revised the ECU calibration. Keeping the extra horses in the stable are new air ducts in the buttresses that flow 50 percent more air and larger intercoolers to give the car peak power for a longer period.
What buyers are most likely to notice, though, aren't the 13 extra ponies, but instead the now-standard titanium exhaust system from Akrapovič. The company is known for exquisitely crafted exhaust parts and a unique (loud) sound. Using the lightweight alloy trims 4 kg from the curb weight of the car, too. Complementing the louder, more powerful car is stiffer suspension damping in track mode, which Ford says enhances body control especially in high-speed transient corners.
The iconic and cool Gulf Racing heritage edition, the distinctive light blue and orange worn by the Le Mans-winning GT40 in 1968 and 1969, has been updated for this year. There is a new black pinstripe separating the colours and the optional number on the side is now 6 instead of 9, in honour of that back-to-back winning car. Carbon fibre wheels are also offered, the first time Ford has put those on a heritage livery car.
Coolest of all the changes, though, is the new Liquid Carbon edition. Instead of paint, this one shows off the carbon fibre bodywork in all its perfection with just a special clear coat. Exposing your carbon is usually the reserve of much pricier hypercars, because of the cost and required perfection of the panels.
“This next chapter in the Ford GT story allows us to fully demonstrate our mastery in both the art and science of carbon fibre craftsmanship and finishing,” said Angus Smith, General Manager of Multimatic Niche Vehicles, North America. “The results of this ongoing partnership between Multimatic and Ford Performance speak for themselves, as each visually stunning and unique Liquid Carbon GT is a manufacturing marvel, showcasing the characteristics and nuances inherent in carbon fibre composites.”
The Liquid Carbon GTs will also get carbon fibre wheels standard, though buyers can pick five calliper colours and five interior options. There are also center stripe choices if you want to hide just a bit of that carbon. Ford says that "deliveries of the upgraded 2020 Ford GT are ongoing," and that production of the Canadian-built car will end in 2022.
You may also like
