During the 1960s, the original GT40 epitomized Ford’s “Total Performance” program and was created with just one purpose: to break Ferrari’s dominance of international endurance racing. That goal was realized in 1966 when the GT40 secured its first win at the 24 Hours of LeMans, repeating the trick three more times in 1967, 1968 and 1969.

Ford’s GT40 concept car, unveiled at Detroit in 2002, must have proved as tempting to Blue Oval executives as it was to auto show crowds. Its concept was simple: take the LeMans-winning design of the Ford GT40 of the 1960s and translate its styling and engineering into a modern supercar. Such was the roaring approval from the press and public alike of the 2002 GT40 concept that Ford CEO William Clay Ford, Jr. decided to give a limited production version the green light. The catch was he wanted the first production versions ready in just 16 months, in time for the centennial celebration of the Ford Motor Company.

The modern Ford GT represents a quite worthy successor to the original, with a 5.4-liter, 550-bhp supercharged 32-valve DOHC V-8 engine, an electronically-limited 205-mph top speed, and phenomenal handling capabilities. It was a supercar the likes of which Detroit had never before produced, capable of lightning-fast sprints to 60-mph in well under four seconds, yet tremendously competent in every other discipline; cornering and braking included. On top speed alone, it surpassed even the Porsche Carrera GT and Mercedes-McLaren SLR. The driving experience is enhanced by having a six-speed manual gearbox incorporated into the rear engine layout.

With meticulous ownership from new and only 1,800 miles driven, this remarkable Ford GT is in many ways as fresh as new. It is factory-equipped with factory options that include the $5,000 painted stripes, the $4,000 McIntosh Audiophile CD stereo system and the $3,500 lightweight BBS forged-aluminum wheels. On top of that, it is reported as one of the first 50 VIP cars produced. It is actually car number 29 and has been retained by the original owner from new.

The early VIP cars were ordered by individuals who were invited by Ford Motor Company to obtain an early car. This one was ordered in Centennial White with the full blue stripes and the aforementioned three of four available options. Standard are such conveniences as air conditioning, power four-wheel disc brakes, power windows and power steering. This car has had the recall of all of the control arms completed and is ready for your enjoyment.

This Ford GT comes with an extensive history file with all receipts, original order documents, all correspondence with Ford, a model car that is signed by Carroll Shelby, plus the design and build team, a poster and more – including the car being signed by the late Carroll Shelby. Additionally, there are photos of this car with Carroll Shelby and the build team at the Ford factory.

Only 4,038 total examples were produced; with approximately 550, 1,900, and 1,600 units built during 2004, 2005, and 2006, respectively. Demand outstripped supply, with early cars selling for substantial premiums over the MSRP. This is a fantastic opportunity to acquire a very important American performance car.