In a recent announcement, Ford bid adieu to its iconic GT supercar, revealing 2023 sales figures that capped the end of an era. The numbers are in, and with only 31 GTs finding new homes last year, enthusiasts around the globe are left with a bittersweet taste. Let’s delve into the details of Ford’s farewell to the GT, from the unexpected extension of production to the final moments of this powerful twin-turbo V6 marvel
The Grand Finale: 31 GTs and the Planned Farewell Ford’s decision to conclude the GT’s production in 2023 was no secret, with the company confirming the end of the line in March. Surprisingly, only 31 units were sold in the final year, marking a poignant conclusion to a limited production run. Originally slated for just 1,000 units over four years in collaboration with racing firm Multimatic, Ford expanded the production run by an additional 350 units in 2018 to meet overwhelming demand.
The Extended Encore: A Twist in the Production Tale The small number of GTs rolling out in 2023 aligns with Ford’s announcement in August of the same year, revealing the extension of production into 2023. This move aimed to complete the last batch of cars, offering enthusiasts one last chance to own a piece of automotive history. While the exact reasons for the extension remain unclear, industry speculation points towards supply chain constraints, potentially influenced by the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Behind the Scenes: Chassis N260-J211’s Antimatter Blue Swan Song Ford has remained tight-lipped about the final production GT, refusing to share any details or images. However, the rumor mill suggests that the last GT, chassis N260-J211, donned a striking Antimatter Blue hue and featured graphite wheels with eye-catching red brake calipers. The car found its home with a private collector in Detroit, Michigan, marking the end of an era in May.
LM Edition: A Collector’s Dream To commemorate the grand finale, Ford introduced the LM Edition in October 2022, a limited edition GT painted in Liquid Silver with red or blue accents. Each of the 20 LM Editions came with a piece of the Ford GT race car that secured a notable third-place finish at the 24 Hours of LeMans in 2016. This final flourish added an extra layer of exclusivity to an already rare and coveted supercar.
Conclusion: As the last echoes of the GT’s roaring engine fade away, Ford’s decision to extend production into 2023 ensures that this automotive legend bows out with a memorable encore. The final GT, wrapped in Antimatter Blue, now rests in the hands of a fortunate collector, etching its place in the annals of automotive history. The limited LM Edition further solidifies the GT’s legacy, offering enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of LeMans history. Ford’s farewell to the GT in 2023 is not just the end of a production run; it’s a celebration of speed, power, and a lasting impact on the automotive world.
