William Ford Jr. took control of his Great-Grandfather’s company in 1999. His intentions were to revitalize the brand and show the world what Detroit is capable of. The first step was to save England’s automotive industry. This was done by purchasing Aston Martin, Jaguar, & Land Rover.
The second step would be to build a supercar with a blue oval badge. He was 10 years old when his uncle decided to buy Ferrari. When Enzo read the fine print, he insulted Henry Ford II and stormed out. This inspired Ford to build a car capable of shaming Enzo in front of the world.
Carroll Shelby developed the GT40 in only a few months, and it got the job done. Bill Ford wanted a modern successor, so Carroll Shelby and Ford’s Special Vehicle Team displayed the 2002 Ford GT concept at the North American International Auto Show, and the press went wild.
Every bean counter at headquarters told him it couldn’t be done, and that’s why it was given the green light. The latest in aluminum and magnesium machining was used to form the body and chassis, and each car was painted by hand at Saleen Performance.
What you see here is one of 5 ordered without stripes for 2005. Mark IV Red Clearcoat is an homage to the first generation, and the finish is still in showroom condition. That’s because this car has only been driven 1,531 miles since it roared to life.
It can be yours in a few weeks, as it will cross the auction block at Carlisle’s Winter AutoFest in Lakeland, Florida. Aside from being one of the largest car shows & swap meets in the Southeast, their 2-day collector car auction has 400 classic & collectible cars consigned.
This car will find a new home on Saturday, February 22nd, and the winning bidder will receive all original sales documents, owner history, window sticker, and service records. Since the release of Ford vs Ferrari, the 2nd generation cars are skyrocketing in value. Click the button below for all the details and stay with us for all your Carlisle coverage.
Presented by Carlisle Auctions
Winter AutoFest takes place at the ultra-spacious SUN ‘n FUN Expo Campus in Lakeland, Florida. Between a dedicated Corvette Fun Field with Corvette vendors and Corvette themed seminars, Corvette fans should also love the all-Corvette hour, between 1:30 and 2:30.
Also new this year is the MOPAR-Only Fun Field with seminars, to the Imperial Mustang Club of Polk County, Mustangs and Mustangs Show, this is a full-force automotive weekend!