The production of the formidable Ford GT Mk IV hypercar is set to conclude at the end of the 2023 model year. To honor this exceptional machine and its storied lineage, Ford is commemorating its departure with a special send-off. This latest iteration draws inspiration from the legendary 1967 GT Mk IV race car, a vehicle that etched its name in automotive history by clinching victory at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, piloted by racing titans Dan Gurney and A.J. Foyt. This extremely limited edition, with only 67 hand-built examples produced, commands a price tag of $1.7 million each and boasts significant track-focused enhancements.
What’s New for 2023?
The 2023 Ford GT receives a comprehensive overhaul compared to its 2022 predecessor. Significant revisions have been made to the body, chassis, powertrain, and drivetrain, all geared towards ultimate track performance.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Under the hood, the 2023 Ford GT is expected to feature an enlarged engine displacement, pushing its output well beyond the previous 660 horsepower, with projections exceeding 800 horsepower. This enhanced power will be managed by what Ford describes as a “proper racing gearbox,” replacing the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission found in the road-legal models. Further enhancing its track prowess, the chassis has been elongated, and the Multimatic DSSV (Dynamic Spool Valve) dampers have been upgraded to an ASV (Adaptive Spool Valve) system. These revisions, coupled with the extended wheelbase and center-lock wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport racing slicks, are designed to make the GT’s prodigious power more manageable on the circuit—the only environment where this car is intended to be driven. While definitive speed figures await testing, the standard 660-horsepower GT street car previously achieved a 0-60 mph sprint in a mere 3 seconds and a quarter-mile in 10.8 seconds at 134 mph.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The outgoing 2022 Ford GT achieved EPA ratings of 12 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway. Given that the 2023 GT Mk IV will not be street-legal, it is unlikely to receive an official EPA fuel economy rating.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The interior of the current, street-legal GT model is already a minimalist, driver-centric environment. However, the 2023 GT is anticipated to be even more spartan, prioritizing track functionality. It is expected to be equipped with essential racing hardware, including a roll cage, fire suppression system, racing seats, and safety harnesses. It remains uncertain whether air conditioning will be included, a feature found in some modern factory race cars.
Infotainment and Connectivity
While the road-legal 2022 model features a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Ford Sync 3 software and built-in navigation, the final, track-focused GT is expected to omit an infotainment system entirely, focusing solely on the driving experience.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
As a low-volume, ultra-high-performance model, the Ford GT is not subject to crash testing by regulatory agencies. Consequently, it is unlikely to incorporate the typical driver-assistance technology found in most contemporary consumer vehicles. As is characteristic of any dedicated race car, the onus of accident avoidance rests entirely with the driver.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Although exclusively engineered for track use, the 2023 Ford GT is expected to share a similar warranty structure to its predecessor. This typically includes unlimited mileage coverage for both its limited and powertrain components throughout their three-year terms.
- Limited warranty covers three years and unlimited miles
- Powertrain warranty covers three years and unlimited miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
The Ford GT Mk IV represents a poignant conclusion to a remarkable chapter in automotive performance. Its track-exclusive nature and extreme engineering ensure its place as a collector’s item and a testament to Ford’s enduring racing heritage.
Would you like to explore other performance vehicles from Ford? Consider the Ford GT prices and discover what makes these supercars so desirable.