The Ford GT40 is one of the most significant cars in the history of endurance racing. With four consecutive Le Mans victories between 1966 and 1969, the GT40 comfortably secured its place in motor sports lore. In the early 2000s, Ford’s 100th anniversary was approaching rapidly, and the company wanted to create a special car to mark the occasion.

First shown as a styling exercise at the 2002 Detroit Auto Show, the GT40 Concept drew significant inspiration from the classic race car whose name it shared, yet was uniquely its own design. Penned by American designer Camilo Pardo, the aluminum-bodied GT40 Concept was the ultimate iteration of the “retro-modern” styling of the era, drawing acclaim from automotive publications and enthusiasts alike.

Within six weeks of the concept being shown, Ford announced that it was going to put a road-going variant of the GT40 Concept into production under the name “Ford GT.” Production began in July 2004 as 2005 model year vehicles, and 4,038 examples were built in just over two years. Although Ford was unable to begin deliveries of the GT during its centennial year, the designers integrated a hidden “100” in the left headlight in celebration of the achievement.

Powered by a mid-mounted 5.4-liter V-8 with an Eaton 2300 supercharger sitting on top, the GT produces 550 hp and 500 lbs./ft. of torque. Power is sent through a six-speed Ricardo transaxle with a limited-slip differential to the rear wheels. While the Ford GT’s European competitors were moving towards paddle shifters and multimode traction control, the GT was designed as a driver’s car, offering no automated gearbox or safety systems.

This 2005 Ford GT is the sixth car off the production line and is finished in striking Mark IV Red with white over-the-top and side stripes. Initially retained by Ford, this car was auctioned off in 2009 in excellent condition, showing 4,065 miles, to raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Under the care of two private owners since, the car showed 10,082 miles at the time of cataloguing.

To keep the production process simple, the Ford GT was only available with four options: over-the-top stripes, forged BBS wheels, a McIntosh stereo, and painted brake calipers. This example is a “four-option” car, ordered with the calipers finished in gray.

This Ford GT presents a unique opportunity to acquire one of the earliest publicly owned examples of this iconic American supercar. Finished in an appealing color combination and kept in overall excellent condition, this GT promises a thrilling drive every time you get behind the wheel.