Pulse Reviews and Analysis
Best Ford GT Model Years (Ranked)
Curated by Kory White · Fractional CRO, CRO Syndicate
Best Ford GT Model Years (Ranked)
The Ford GT is America's mid-engine supercar icon, a road-going tribute to the GT40 that beat Ferrari at Le Mans in 1966-1969. It has arrived in two distinct modern eras: the 2005-2006 first-generation car with a supercharged 5.4L V8, and the 2017-2022 second-generation car with a twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and a carbon-fiber monocoque.
Each generation is rare, collectible, and rising in value. Choosing the right model year means weighing build quality, special editions, recall history, and long-term collectibility. This ranking covers the best Ford GT model years and variants, their engines, the issues to verify, and where the smart money sits across a six-figure-and-up collector market.
Direct Answer
The best overall Ford GT is the 2005-2006 first-generation car, the most usable, analog, and broadly beloved version: a 550-hp supercharged 5.4L V8, a manual gearbox, and timeless GT40-inspired styling that has made it a blue-chip collectible. For buyers who want maximum value relative to performance, the best value is the 2017 second-generation Ford GT, an early-build twin-turbo carbon-fiber hypercar that, while expensive, undercuts the later limited Heritage and special editions while delivering identical core performance.
First-generation cars are the friendlier ownership proposition; second-generation cars are the harder-edged, track-focused machines. Verify supercharger and clutch service on Gen 1 and Ford's strict resale terms on Gen 2.
1. 2005-2006 First Generation 🏆 BEST OVERALL
The original modern Ford GT remains the high point for usability and desirability. Its supercharged 5.4L "Modular" V8 produces 550 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque, sent through a Ricardo six-speed manual to the rear wheels. The aluminum spaceframe, dry-sump lubrication, and gorgeous GT40-inspired body make it a true driver's car rather than a computerized hypercar.
Roughly 4,038 examples were built across both years. It is analog, loud, and engaging, with a 0-60 time around 3.3 seconds and a 205-mph top speed. Values have appreciated sharply, making well-documented cars genuine blue-chip collectibles.
The first-generation GT is the best overall choice for buyers who want to actually drive their supercar.
2. 2006 First Generation (Final-Year Build) 💎 BEST VALUE
The 2006 model year marked the end of first-generation production, and these later-build cars benefited from the most refined assembly as the Wixom, Michigan line matured. Mechanically identical to 2005 cars, they carry the same 550-hp supercharged V8 and Ricardo manual but often show better fit and finish.
Because the 2005 and 2006 cars are functionally the same, a clean 2006 example can represent the best value within the appreciating first-generation market, especially in less-common color combinations without the four optional stripes-and-wheels upgrades. Documented service history on the supercharger, clutch, and the factory-recommended fluid changes matters far more than mileage.
For driving and long-term collectibility at a relatively sane entry point, the 2006 car is hard to beat.
3. 2017 Second Generation (First Model Year)
The second-generation Ford GT launched for 2017 as a radically different machine: a carbon-fiber monocoque, active aerodynamics, pushrod suspension, and a twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6 making 647 horsepower. It was built by Multimatic in Markham, Ontario, in extremely limited numbers via an application-only ordering process.
Performance is ferocious, with a top speed of 216 mph, but the cabin is narrow and track-focused rather than comfortable. The first model year carries the cachet of being the debut of the new car and is mechanically identical to later standard cars. Among second-generation GTs, an early 2017 standard car typically represents the most accessible entry into Gen 2 ownership.
4. 2019 Second Generation (Carbon Series)
The 2019 Carbon Series added a lightweight, more visceral edge to the second-generation car. It shed weight through exposed carbon-fiber bodywork, polycarbonate engine cover, titanium exhaust, and carbon wheels, becoming the lightest Gen 2 GT while retaining the 647-hp EcoBoost V6.
Only a few hundred Carbon Series cars were built, making it more exclusive than the standard model. It bridges the gap between the base car and the hardcore track editions, offering visible carbon flourishes and weight savings without going fully race-focused. For collectors who want a distinct, lighter, more special second-generation GT but still want to use it on the road, the Carbon Series is a compelling and increasingly sought-after choice.
5. 2020-2022 Second Generation (Standard)
For the 2020 model year, Ford updated the second-generation GT with a power bump to 660 horsepower, revised cooling, optional Akrapovic titanium exhaust, and new color and trim options. Production of the second-generation car was extended and ran through 2022, with the final cars among the last new mid-engine GTs Ford will build for the foreseeable future.
These later standard cars are the most powerful non-special second-generation GTs and benefit from incremental refinement over the early 2017 builds. As the closing chapter of the modern GT story, late-build 2021-2022 cars carry meaningful "last of the line" appeal. Expect strong long-term collectibility given the model's hard production cap.
6. 2022 Second Generation (Holman Moody Heritage Edition)
The 2022 Holman Moody Heritage Edition closed out the second-generation Heritage series, honoring the 1966 Le Mans podium in livery inspired by the No. 5 Holman & Moody GT40. It pairs the 660-hp EcoBoost V6 with unique gold-and-red exterior graphics, exposed carbon, and serialized interior details.
As one of the rarest and final Gen 2 editions, it commands a premium over standard cars. The Heritage editions are the collector's choice within the second generation, tying the modern car directly to the original GT40's racing legend. For buyers prioritizing historical significance and rarity over outright usability, the Holman Moody is among the most desirable modern Ford GTs ever offered.
7. 2018 Second Generation (Standard)
The 2018 model year continued the second-generation car largely unchanged from 2017, with the 647-hp twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, carbon monocoque, and active aero. By 2018, Multimatic's production had settled in, and Ford had extended the overall production run in response to overwhelming demand.
A 2018 standard car offers the same blistering performance and exclusivity as the debut year, often without the small premium attached to first-model-year cars. These are excellent choices for buyers focused on the driving experience and rarity rather than chasing a specific edition.
As with all Gen 2 cars, Ford's original 24-month no-resale agreement has long since lapsed, so the once-controversial flipping restriction no longer affects ownership.
8. 2017-2018 Second Generation (Heritage Edition, Gulf '66)
Ford launched the second-generation Heritage Edition program with Gulf-liveried cars for 2017 and 2018, recreating the iconic blue-and-orange scheme of the Le Mans-winning GT40s. These early Heritage cars carry the 647-hp EcoBoost V6 plus unique paint, graphics, and serialized badging.
The Gulf Heritage cars are among the most visually recognizable modern GTs and command strong premiums for their livery and limited numbers. They sit at the intersection of motorsport history and modern hypercar engineering. For collectors who love the Gulf heritage and want a Gen 2 car with maximum visual drama, these editions are highly prized, though they trade at a clear premium over standard second-generation cars.
9. 2005-2006 First Generation (Heritage Edition, Gulf)
The first generation also offered a 2006 Heritage Edition in the famous Gulf blue-and-orange livery, with only 343 examples produced. It carries the same 550-hp supercharged 5.4L V8 and Ricardo manual as standard cars but adds the most coveted color scheme in the model's history.
As the rarest and most collectible first-generation variant, the Heritage Edition commands a substantial premium and is among the most valuable modern Ford GTs at auction. It blends the analog, drivable nature of the first-generation car with unmatched visual significance. For collectors who want the best of both worlds in Gen 1, usability plus blue-chip rarity, the Gulf Heritage is the ultimate target if budget allows.
10. 2005-2006 First Generation (High-Mileage Driver)
For buyers who want to own and actually drive a Ford GT without the premium of a low-mileage garage queen, a higher-mileage first-generation car can be the smartest entry point. These cars still deliver the full 550-hp supercharged V8 experience, the engaging manual, and the GT40 styling, but at a relative discount.
The first-generation GT is robust when maintained, and many higher-mileage examples have documented supercharger snout, clutch, and fluid service. The trade-off is slower appreciation versus pristine cars, but the driving payoff is identical. For an enthusiast who values the experience over investment-grade preservation, a well-sorted driver-grade GT is the most rewarding way into ownership.
What to Watch For When Buying
- Supercharger and engine service (Gen 1): Verify the 5.4L supercharged V8 has documented fluid changes and that the supercharger snout and bearings are healthy; deferred maintenance is costly.
- Clutch and transaxle (Gen 1): The Ricardo six-speed manual is durable, but confirm clutch condition and check for the known issue of fuel-tank delamination on early cars (subject to a recall).
- Recall history: Both generations had recalls. Gen 1 had a fuel tank recall; Gen 2 had recalls related to hydraulic fluid leaks that could cause fire and rear-view camera issues. Verify completion via the VIN at NHTSA.
- Resale agreement (Gen 2): Ford's original 24-month no-sell clause has expired on all cars, but confirm clean title and ownership chain on second-generation cars.
- Carbon-fiber damage (Gen 2): Inspect the carbon monocoque and bodywork for prior accident repair, which is expensive and hurts value.
- Documentation and provenance: For both generations, complete service records and original window sticker materially affect value.
How to Choose
Match the GT to how you intend to use it. For the best blend of usability, sound, and collectibility, the 2005-2006 first-generation car is the answer; its supercharged V8 and manual gearbox make it the most engaging to drive and the easiest to live with. For the modern hypercar experience, the 2017-2022 second-generation car delivers savage twin-turbo performance and a carbon-fiber chassis, though it is narrow and track-focused.
Collectors chasing maximum value should target the Heritage and Carbon Series editions, while buyers entering Gen 2 for the first time will find the 2017 standard car the most accessible. In every case, prioritize documented service, clean accident history, and verified recall completion.
FAQ
Which Ford GT generation is better to drive? The 2005-2006 first-generation car is widely considered the more usable and engaging daily driver, thanks to its naturally engaging supercharged V8, manual gearbox, and more comfortable cabin. The 2017-2022 second-generation car is faster and more exotic but is narrow, stiff, and far more track-focused.
How many Ford GTs were made? Roughly 4,038 first-generation cars were built for 2005-2006. The second-generation car was far rarer, with about 1,350 produced across 2017-2022 after Ford extended the original production run due to overwhelming demand.
Did Ford really ban owners from selling the new GT? Yes. Second-generation buyers signed a 24-month agreement not to resell the car. That period has expired on all cars, so the restriction no longer affects current ownership, but it shaped the early secondary market.
Are Ford GTs a good investment? Both generations have appreciated strongly. First-generation cars have become blue-chip collectibles, and limited second-generation editions like the Carbon Series and Heritage cars command significant premiums. Documentation, low accident history, and rare editions drive the highest values.
Bottom Line
The Ford GT is one of the most significant American performance cars ever built, and both modern generations are collectible. The 2005-2006 first-generation car is the best overall pick, offering a supercharged V8, a manual gearbox, and real usability, while the 2017 second-generation car is the best value entry into the twin-turbo carbon-fiber era.
Heritage and Carbon Series editions sit at the top for collectors. Whichever you choose, verify service history, recall completion, and accident-free provenance, and you will own a piece of Le Mans legend.
Sources
- Ford GT model history, specifications, and generations, en.wikipedia.org
- Ford Performance official Ford GT pages and press releases, ford.com
- NHTSA recall database for Ford GT by model year, nhtsa.gov
- Edmunds Ford GT reviews and used-car appraisals, edmunds.com
- Car and Driver Ford GT first drives, specifications, and history, caranddriver.com
- Hagerty Ford GT valuation and collector market analysis, hagerty.com