A couple of interesting questions where asked of Ford GT chief engineer, Fred Goodnow at the SVT engineer's program at Ford Carlisle this weekend. The first, "If Alan Mulally asked you to, could you produce a new Ford GT?" and the second, "Was the V8 the only engine considered for the GT?". The delivery of the answers was as good or better than the information provided. The passion this man has for this car is just fantastic. Make no mistake about it, this man is the man who made sure the Ford GT is the great car it is!
As for the V8, Fred said anything other than a V8 would not have been true to the heritage of the car. He went on to state that the car was built as a street car but clearly would be a very capable race car as well. In fact the bottom end of the engine is so strong that several owners had twin turbos running 1200+ horsepower with no problems. As for a new GT, he even indicated he would come out of retirement again if needed. He went on to say that even today almost five years later, "nothing can catch it, not even close". Straightforward, concise and correct.
Don't suppose there will be a 2010 Ford GT but if you get the chance to meet this guy or hear him speak you need to. Thanks again Fred GT!
As for the V8, Fred said anything other than a V8 would not have been true to the heritage of the car. He went on to state that the car was built as a street car but clearly would be a very capable race car as well. In fact the bottom end of the engine is so strong that several owners had twin turbos running 1200+ horsepower with no problems. As for a new GT, he even indicated he would come out of retirement again if needed. He went on to say that even today almost five years later, "nothing can catch it, not even close". Straightforward, concise and correct.
Don't suppose there will be a 2010 Ford GT but if you get the chance to meet this guy or hear him speak you need to. Thanks again Fred GT!
