Restomods allow people to combine the appearance of classic vehicles with the latest technology. The result is a machine with more amenities and often more power than anything initially available from the factory. While these custom models are generally relatively expensive, they give owners something unique to express their passion for the automobile.
Now, it’s time for the 2005-2006 Ford GT to get the restomod treatment, and the result is incredible. The car is a street-legal version of the 2010 Ford Matech Concepts GT1 Le Mans race car. Lynx Motors is building these machines and is partnering with Graham Rahal Performance on the project. The companies are limiting production to just 28 units.
A Le Mans-Inspired Racer For The Road
Matech GT Racing prepped the Ford for competition by fitting elements such as a carbon-fiber body, aerodynamic upgrades, and a wider stance. Unfortunately, the car struggled during the 24-hour event and could not finish. Larbre Compétition, with a Saleen S7-R, won the LMGT1 class and was 13th overall at Le Mans.
“It’s an iconic car in its own right, but creating a high-quality, modern version of what the Ford GT40 was at its peak gives us something to be very proud of. I’m very fortunate and proud that Lynx thought of us for this project, as it validates and justifies the investment that we’ve made in our facility here in Zionsville, [Indiana], and I’m extremely excited to get the project underway,” said Graham Rahal, owner and founder of Graham Rahal Performance.
The Lynx Motors GT1 has a massively overhauled powertrain compared to the road car and the racer. The twin-turbocharged V-8 makes over 1,200 horsepower in the street tune. A track-only variant with a Rousch-built twin-turbo V-8 produces 1,500 horsepower. For comparison, a stock GT uses a supercharged 5.4-liter V-8 with 550 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque.
Beyond the massive powertrain upgrade, this Ford GT also looks much meaner than stock. The modified buyer is broader than the original, and the hood has far more prominent vents. The rear fenders are also significantly wider. A more aggressive, motorsport-inspired wing adorns the rear deck.
Meanwhile, the interior is luxurious and retro-inspired. Warm brown leather adorns much of the cabin, and the seats have broad tan stripes. The instruments feature a ‘60s-inspired front with cream-colored backgrounds on the speedometer and tachometer. A less opulent, more track-focused layout is also available.
Each Lynx GT1 has an estimated base price of $1.7 million. Hagerty currently values the original 2005 and 2006 GT at $353,000 in #3 Good condition. However, depending on the specifications and mileage, this figure can be significantly higher.
Facts About The Lynx GT1
Here’s everything you need to know about this Ford GT restomod:
- Engine Options: 1,200 HP Twin-Turbo Ford V-8 / 1,500 HP Roush RY45 Twin-Turbo V8
- 6-Speed Manual Gearbox
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Road and Track Aero Options
- State-Of-The-Art LED Lighting For Street-Legal Compliance
- Optional Custom Livery
- LED Instrument Display And Touchscreen
- Roll Cage, Side Intrusion Protection, And Traction Control
- Paint Protection
- Personalized Concierge Service
- Estimated Price: $1,700,000
- Available Now For Pre-Sale
TopSpeed’s Take
It’s a bit odd to think of a 2005-2006 vehicle as a candidate for a restomod. The GT just feels too new. However, Lynx Motors and Graham Rahal Performance seem to have something special here. With at least 1,200 horsepower on tap, this beast should have plenty of power, and the aero should keep the machine sticking to the road.
Read the full article here