Equity Mag Sep_17 Book Folder

COLLECTOR'S PIECE
There’s plenty of carbon fibre used across the
body of the car to keep the weight down to a
bare minimum. Under the hood, Ford made a
bold decision to strap in a V6. For those who
think Ford should have crammed in a few more
cylinders, it’s worth noting that the compact twin
turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 commands 647hp of
power and can launch the machine from
0-100kph in 2.8 seconds. The GT can hit a top
speed of 347kph. In the case of this V6, its size is
inversely proportional to its performance.
On the steering wheel is an aluminium knob
that has five drive settings. To really let loose in
the GT, turn it to T – aka Track mode – and
confirm by pressing another button. The car’s
suspension instantly drops 50mm, the chassis
stiffens and the rear spoiler hoists up in
anticipation of some serious speed. Pin the
throttle and the car’s active aerodynamics system
kicks in to divert airflow effortlessly across its
surface as you happily paddle shift your way
through the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
It’s heartening to know that there is an integrated
roll cage in the chassis that strengthens the frame
and prevents the car from rearranging your face
should you make a mistake at the wheel. To curb
your enthusiasm, the carbon ceramic brakes will
scrub off the speed just as fast as you gain it.
At a base price of approximately $580,000, the
Ford GT is more expensive than the average
Ferrari or McLaren, but cheaper than a Bugatti or
Pagani. Only 1,000 units will be produced up until
2020 when production will cease. If you aren’t
down for one already, you may need to wait for
Ford’s centenary celebrations of its ’66 Le Mans
win before you get your very own GT.
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EQUITY