Ford GT First Technology (2005–2006) Patrons Information

When the 2005 Ford GT was launched, it wasn’t only a new entry into the supercar world—it was a celebration of Ford’s wealthy racing heritage, paying homage to the legendary GT40 that famously conquered Le Mans within the Sixties. 

Designed as a contemporary interpretation of its historic predecessor, the Ford GT was a limited-production, mid-engine supercar developed to showcase Ford’s engineering prowess and commemorate the corporate’s centennial anniversary. 

This wasn’t only a design train; it was a completely realized efficiency machine constructed to problem one of the best from Europe, combining retro styling with up to date expertise.

On the coronary heart of the Ford GT lies a 5.4-liter supercharged V8, an all-American powerhouse that produces 550 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 6-speed handbook transmission, the GT delivers an exciting driving expertise, launching from 0 to 60 mph in round 3.3 seconds and reaching a prime pace of 205 mph. 

The engine’s roots-style Eaton supercharger ensures rapid throttle response, whereas an aluminum block and solid elements spotlight the automotive’s race-bred sturdiness.

The outside design of the Ford GT stays remarkably trustworthy to the GT40, with its low-slung stance, aerodynamic form, and distinctive facet air intakes. Fashionable touches, comparable to HID headlights, light-weight aluminum physique panels, and an built-in rear diffuser, contribute to each aesthetics and efficiency. The automotive’s signature clamshell rear hatch, housing its mid-mounted V8, is a visible and mechanical spectacle, echoing the race automotive’s heritage.

Inside, the Ford GT’s cabin options minimalist racing parts and fashionable comforts. The carbon-fiber and aluminum inside retains weight down whereas delivering a uncooked, driver-focused really feel. GT40-inspired toggle switches, a large heart tunnel, and deeply bolstered leather-based seats made by Sparco reinforce the connection to Ford’s motorsport legacy. 

All through its manufacturing, the Ford GT competed within the elite supercar phase in opposition to a few of the most iconic efficiency machines of its time. Rivals included the Porsche Carrera GT, the Ferrari 360 Problem Stradale, and the Lamborghini Murciélago, every providing its personal tackle pace, and exclusivity. But, the Ford GT stood out with its mix of American muscle, heritage-inspired design, and accessible efficiency, making it some of the celebrated fashionable supercars.

Mannequin Modifications (Breakdown by 12 months)

2005 Ford GT

The 2005 Ford GT marked the debut of Ford’s fashionable supercar, designed to commemorate the corporate’s centennial anniversary and pay tribute to the legendary GT40 that dominated Le Mans within the Sixties. I

n its first manufacturing 12 months, Ford constructed 2,022 items, providing the GT in 4 hanging colours: Mark IV Pink with white racing stripes, Midnight Blue with white racing stripes, Centennial White with blue racing stripes, and Fast Silver with black racing stripes.

Beneath its sculpted physique panels, the 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine produced 550 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque, sending energy to the rear wheels by way of a 6-speed Ricardo handbook transmission.

Structurally, the Ford GT featured a light-weight aluminum spaceframe chassis, mixed with carbon fiber and aluminum physique panels, making certain an optimum stability of power and weight. Efficiency elements included BBS solid aluminum wheels, Brembo brakes, and Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires, all contributing to the GT’s distinctive dealing with and braking capabilities. I

Inside, the cabin retained a driver-focused design, that includes leather-trimmed bucket seats, aluminum accents, and GT40-inspired toggle switches.

Ford additionally provided three elective packages for consumers trying to personalize their GTs: the McIntosh Audiophile Stereo System, Light-weight Cast BBS Wheels, and Painted Racing Stripes. Regardless of its engineering excellence, early manufacturing fashions confronted a suspension management arm recall, requiring alternative elements to be put in on affected automobiles. 

Nonetheless, the 2005 Ford GT shortly cemented itself as an prompt traditional, mixing retro styling with cutting-edge efficiency in a approach that honored Ford’s motorsport legacy.

The beginning value of the 2005 Ford GT was $139,995 when it was new. Nonetheless, this value may improve with elective extras comparable to:

• McIntosh Audiophile Stereo System: $4,000
• Light-weight Cast BBS Wheels: $3,500
• Painted Racing Stripes: $5,350

With all choices chosen, the ultimate MSRP may exceed $153,000.

2006 Ford GT

The 2006 Ford GT marked the ultimate manufacturing 12 months of Ford’s fashionable supercar, with 2,011 items constructed, making it barely rarer than the 2005 mannequin. 

This 12 months launched new shade choices, together with Tungsten Gray Metallic with white stripes, a particular fortieth Anniversary tribute to the GT40, and the Heritage Blue with Orange Gulf Livery, which paid homage to the 1968–69 Le Mans-winning GT40. The Mark IV Pink, Centennial White, Midnight Blue, and Fast Silver shade choices from the earlier 12 months remained accessible.

Ford made refined refinements to the 2006 mannequin, enhancing construct high quality primarily based on suggestions from early 2005 manufacturing automobiles. Notably, stronger suspension elements have been put in to resolve the management arm recall points that affected a few of the earlier automobiles. 

On September 21, 2006, manufacturing formally ended, marking the ultimate run of the first-generation Ford GT and solidifying its standing as a contemporary collectible supercar that bridged Ford’s previous and current in motorsport excellence.

The beginning value of the 2006 Ford GT remained at $139,995, the identical because the 2005 mannequin. And with all choices chosen, the ultimate MSRP may exceed $153,000.

Ford GT First Technology Widespread Issues

Whereas the first-generation Ford GT (2005–2006) is pretty dependable, it’s not with out its points. Like all high-performance car, sure elements have proven vulnerabilities over time, requiring consideration from homeowners and collectors. 

Some early manufacturing challenges led to recollects and refinements in later fashions, whereas different wear-related points have surfaced with age and use. Thankfully, most of those issues are well-documented, and with correct upkeep, common inspections, and preventative care, the Ford GT stays a dependable and exhilarating machine that continues to understand in worth and desirability.

Common upkeep and thorough pre-purchase inspections are important to deal with these points and make sure the car’s longevity.

Suspension Management Arms: Early 2005 fashions skilled a recall on account of potential failure of the suspension management arms, resulting in replacements in affected automobiles.

Paint Peeling: Some 2006 GTs have reported points with paint peeling, significantly on physique panels.

Engine Efficiency: A couple of homeowners have famous engine issues, comparable to lack of energy or surprising stalling whereas driving.

Airbag Remembers: Sure fashions have been affected by the widespread Takata airbag recall, necessitating airbag inflator replacements.

Gas Fill Points: Some homeowners have reported difficulties with refueling, typically on account of a defective gasoline filler neck design.

Instrument Cluster Failures: Situations of malfunctioning instrument clusters, resulting in inaccurate or non-functional gauge readings, have been reported.

Climate Stripping Degradation: Over time, the climate stripping round doorways and home windows can deteriorate, resulting in potential water ingress.

Tie Rod Finish Put on: Untimely put on of tie rod ends has been noticed, which may have an effect on steering responsiveness.

Remembers

2005 to 2006 Ford GT automobiles

Suspension Management Arm Failure (Recall No. 04V604000)

Ford recalled sure 2005 Ford GT automobiles on account of a defect within the entrance and rear higher and decrease management arms. Some items have been discovered to have casting imperfections, which may result in fractures, growing the chance of a lack of car management and potential crash. Homeowners have been notified, and sellers changed all 4 management arms and related fasteners freed from cost. This recall was issued in December 2004 earlier than full-scale manufacturing started.

Driver Airbag Inflator Defect (Recall No. 14V787000)

As a part of the Takata airbag recall, Ford issued a recall for 2005–2006 Ford GT automobiles on account of a defect within the driver-side airbag inflator. The inflator may degrade over time, resulting in moisture intrusion and a danger of rupture throughout deployment, doubtlessly inflicting steel fragments to strike occupants. Ford sellers changed the driver-side frontal airbag inflator without charge. The recall was initiated on December 19, 2014.

Passenger Airbag Inflator Defect (Recall No. 15V319000)

Ford expanded the Takata airbag recall to incorporate the passenger-side frontal airbag inflator in 2005–2006 Ford GTs. Just like the driver-side concern, the passenger-side inflator was prone to rupturing on account of long-term publicity to warmth and humidity, posing a severe harm hazard. Homeowners have been contacted, and dealerships changed the faulty passenger airbag inflators freed from cost. This recall started on June 2, 2015.

Expanded Takata Airbag Recall (Recall No. 17V024000)

Ford issued one other recall protecting further 2005–2006 Ford GT items which will have obtained defective alternative airbag inflators. The difficulty remained the identical—potential rupture on account of propellant degradation over time, resulting in an elevated danger of harm or loss of life within the occasion of airbag deployment. Ford notified affected homeowners, and dealerships changed the inflators without charge. This recall began on January 10, 2017.

Service Components Airbag Inflator Alternative (Recall No. 21V081000)

Ford found that sure alternative airbag inflators put in throughout earlier recollects might have nonetheless been faulty. As a precautionary measure, one other recall for 2005–2006 Ford GT fashions was issued, instructing sellers to examine and change each driver and passenger airbag modules or inflators as essential. This recall was launched on February 10, 2021.

Upkeep and Possession Prices

Proudly owning a 2005 to 2006 Ford GT is mostly thought of cost-effective in comparison with different supercars of its period. Routine upkeep duties, comparable to oil modifications and brake servicing, are comparatively simple and will be carried out with out extreme expense. The car’s sturdy engineering contributes to its reliability, leading to fewer surprising repairs. 

Nonetheless, sourcing particular elements, like physique panels or distinctive inside elements, will be difficult and doubtlessly expensive because of the automotive’s restricted manufacturing run. Total, with correct care and common upkeep, the Ford GT affords a rewarding possession expertise with out imposing prohibitive repairs prices.

Each 5,000 Miles:

• Change engine oil and change oil filter.
• Examine tires for put on and rotate as wanted.
• Carry out a multi-point inspection, together with checks of fluid ranges, brakes, suspension elements, and steering linkage.

Each 15,000 Miles:

• Substitute engine air filter.
• Examine brake pads, sneakers, rotors, drums, strains, and hoses.
• Look at the engine cooling system and hoses.
• Examine steering linkage, ball joints, suspension, driveshaft, and U-joints.

Each 30,000 Miles:

• Substitute gasoline filter.
• Examine and, if essential, change the cabin air filter (if outfitted).
• Examine exhaust system and warmth shields.
• Examine automated transmission fluid stage and situation.

Each 60,000 Miles:

• Examine and change accent drive belts as wanted.
• Look at and repair the cooling system, together with a coolant flush and alternative.
• Examine and lubricate suspension and steering elements.

Each 100,000 Miles:

• Substitute spark plugs.
• Examine and repair the timing chain and associated elements.
• Look at and, if essential, change the PCV valve.

Please observe that these intervals are basic pointers. The Ford GT’s Proprietor’s Handbook supplies particular suggestions tailor-made to the car. For exact upkeep schedules and any further service necessities, check with the 2005 Ford GT Proprietor Manuals or seek the advice of with a licensed Ford technician.

Following these service intervals helps keep the car’s efficiency and might forestall potential points down the highway.

Here’s a tough estimate of typical service prices related to the Ford GT First Technology:

• Oil Change – The Ford GT requires high-quality artificial oil. An oil change usually prices between $260 and $300 at a dealership. Unbiased retailers might provide this service for roughly $200 to $250.
• Minor Service – Minor providers embrace oil and filter modifications, tire rotation, and a multi-point inspection. At a dealership, this service ranges from $300 to $500. Unbiased retailers would possibly cost between $250 and $400.
• Main Service – Main providers consists of complete inspections, fluid replacements, and element servicing. Dealerships might cost between $1,000 and $1,500 for this in depth service. Unbiased retailers may provide it for $800 to $1,200.
• Tires – A set of 4 tires such because the Bridgestone Potenza tires usually prices between $1,500 and $2,000, relying on the model and specs. Set up and balancing charges at a dealership can add $200 to $300, whereas unbiased retailers would possibly cost $150 to $250.
• Brakes – Changing brake pads and rotors on the Ford GT is comparatively simple. Dealerships might cost between $1,000 and $1,500 for all 4 wheels. Unbiased retailers would possibly provide the service for $800 to $1,200.
• Clutch – Clutch alternative is a big service on account of labor depth. Dealerships usually cost round $4,000 for this service. Unbiased retailers might provide it for $3,500 to $4,000. It is noteworthy that clutch replacements are not often required until the car is subjected to in depth racing or aggressive driving.

Choices Listing

The 2005 to 2006 Ford GT got here with three key manufacturing facility choices that allowed consumers to personalize their automobiles. 

The McIntosh Audiophile Stereo System was a $4,000 improve that improved sound high quality with a customized head unit, upgraded audio system, and a retro-inspired design. It was a uncommon choice, as many GT consumers prioritized efficiency over audio. 

The Light-weight Cast BBS Wheels, priced at $3,500, have been a sought-after choice for these trying to cut back unsprung weight. These wheels have been lighter than the usual solid aluminum set and improved dealing with whereas that includes an aggressive 10-spoke design.

Additionally, the Painted Racing Stripes, a $5,350 choice, added a contrasting stripe design working down the middle of the automotive, enhancing its resemblance to the unique GT40. 

In contrast to vinyl decals, these stripes have been painted and clear-coated for a seamless end. Manufacturing facility-painted stripes are extremely fascinating right now, as they contribute to resale worth. Whereas there have been no efficiency add-ons, these manufacturing facility choices performed a big position in customizing the Ford GT’s look and driving expertise. 

Totally optioned examples are usually extra invaluable, with the McIntosh stereo and painted stripes being essentially the most sought-after amongst collectors.

2006 Ford GT choices record

Key Choices

• McIntosh Audiophile Stereo System
• BBS Cast Aluminum Wheels
• Painted Racing Stripes
• Painted Brake Calipers (Pink or Gray)
• Aspect Stripe Delete

Ford GT First Technology Worth and Worth

The Finest Ford GT First Technology to Purchase

In terms of selecting one of the best first-generation Ford GT (2005–2006) to purchase, a number of key elements must be thought of, together with mannequin 12 months, manufacturing facility choices, particular editions, and general situation.

For these in search of essentially the most fascinating model, the 2006 mannequin 12 months is a superb selection. As the ultimate 12 months of manufacturing, it advantages from improved construct high quality following refinements made after early manufacturing points in 2005. The Heritage Version, launched in 2006, is essentially the most collectible variant.

That includes the long-lasting Gulf Oil racing livery—a Heritage Blue exterior with Epic Orange stripes—it pays tribute to the 1968–69 Le Mans-winning GT40. With solely 343 items produced, the 2006 Heritage Version is without doubt one of the rarest and Most worthy first-generation Ford GTs.

Past mannequin 12 months, choice choice performs a task in desirability. Essentially the most sought-after manufacturing facility choices embrace painted racing stripes, light-weight solid BBS wheels, and the McIntosh Audiophile Stereo System. GTs outfitted with all three choices are inclined to command a premium within the collector market.

Situation is one other crucial issue when selecting one of the best Ford GT to purchase. Autos with low mileage, unique paint, and no modifications have a tendency to carry the best worth. Many GTs have been preserved as collectibles, however some have been pushed aggressively, so a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) is extremely beneficial. Making certain that recollects—such because the management arm and Takata airbag recollects—have been addressed can also be important.

For long-term worth and collectibility, a 2006 Ford GT with low mileage, full-service historical past, and fascinating manufacturing facility choices is your best option. The 2006 Heritage Version, with its Gulf Livery, is essentially the most invaluable and traditionally important, making it a standout funding amongst all first-generation Ford GTs.

Right here is the color breakdown for manufacturing:

2005 Manufacturing

• Mark IV Pink: 766 items
• Centennial White: 503 items
• Midnight Blue Metallic: 265 items
• Mark II Black: 238 items
• Satin Silver: 156 items
• Pace Yellow: 97 items
• Fast Silver: 1 unit
• Gulf Blue: 1 unit

2006 Manufacturing

• Tungsten Silver: 541 items
• Heritage Blue (Gulf Livery): 343 items
• Mark IV Pink: 348 items
• Mark II Black: 292 items
• Centennial White: 222 items
• Midnight Blue Metallic: 190 items
• Pace Yellow: 75 items

Conclusion

In abstract, with a value of $430,000+, the 2005–2006 Ford GT affords a bit of efficiency and heritage. Its supercharged 5.4-liter V8 engine delivers 550 hp, and a prime pace of 205 mph. The design pays homage to the legendary GT40, with traditional styling and fashionable efficiency.

Whereas options just like the Porsche Carrera GT, the Ferrari 360 Problem Stradale, and the Lamborghini Murciélago exist, the Ford GT distinguishes itself by way of its distinctive mixture of American muscle, racing pedigree, and restricted manufacturing numbers. Its rarity and historic significance have contributed to its sturdy appreciation in worth over time.

For fans in search of a supercar that embodies American automotive excellence and affords each exhilarating efficiency and funding potential, the first-generation Ford GT stands out as an distinctive selection.