2005 Ford GT: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Ford revives a classic name and shape with the 2005 Ford GT. Styling and powertrain layout are based on the LeMans-winning GT40s of the '60s. Like the original, the GT is a mid-engine, 2-seat sports car. The '05 sports a mid-mounted supercharged 5.4-liter with dual overhead camshafts and 32 valves. This all-aluminum V8 makes 550 horsepower. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual transmission and limited-slip axle. No automatic transmission is available. Like many high-end sports cars, the body is constructed mainly of aluminum and carbon-fiber. Antilock disc brakes are standard and come with electronic brake force distribution to help in panic braking situations. Front tire size is 235/45ZR-18 and rear tire size is 315/40ZR-19. GT went on sale in '04 as an early 2005 model. This evaluation is based on closed-course preview drives.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Offering more power and style than typical Sporty/Performance vehicles, Premium Sporty/Performance Cars usually cost much more and have more comfort and convenience equipment. Two-passenger convertibles and 4-seat coupes rule the roost in this class.

Our Best Buy is the Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks include the BMW Z4, Chrysler Crossfire, and Mercedes-Benz CLK.