Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) today launched its most hard-core GT yet, the new GT RSPEC Limited Edition Series.
Developed to deliver racetrack-inspired handling to FPV’s enthusiast customers, the GT RSPEC features a significantly recalibrated suspension package, new wider 9inch rear wheels with 275/35 R19 Dunlop Sports Maxx tyres and, in an FPV first, Launch Control.
Graphically, the new FPV GT RSPEC is distinctive, its look inspired by the legendary 1969 Boss Mustang with a unique stripe package and paint treatment.
Under the bonnet, the new GT RSPEC is unchanged, powered by FPV’s much vaunted all-aluminium ‘Miami’ BOSS 335 5.0-litre supercharged engine.
“On the track the RSPEC’s capabilities are just awesome … it is the finest-handling GT in history,” FPV Managing Director, Bryan Mears said.
“We have put 18 months into the development of the FPV GT RSPEC and we are extremely proud of the results; anyone who drives it on the track will be blown away by just how complete and capable this car is.”
FPV’s newest model was inspired by a desire to maximise the amazing performance of its now legendary 335kW 5.0Lt supercharged V8 engine by enhancing the chassis’ capabilities, to create the ultimate driving package for enthusiasts.
Ironically, the modern day version of the Boss Mustang also played its part too, inspiring FPV’s engineers to replicate the responsiveness and driveability of the American icon.
“From the outset with the GT RSPEC we wanted more agile handling with better traction, and so the suspension had to be considered holistically, unlike the aftermarket, where you might bolt on a set of wider tyres and hope for the best,” Chief Engineer Prodrive Australia, Bernie Quinn said.
“The new car thus received a significant number of component changes to develop this totally integrated package.”
The rear suspension of the GT RSPEC contains higher spring rates, re-tuned dampers, larger anti-roll bar, and reinforced rear lower control arms, while the front suspension has stiffer upper control arm bushes, stiffer front upper suspension strut mounts, and re-tuned dampers.
New 9inch rear wheels and the 275 tyre combine on the GT RSPEC to also improve cornering grip, along with improved traction during launch, and when exiting corners. A revised toe setting on the rear wheel alignment also gives improved turn-in response.
Stiffer transmission mounts on the GT RSPEC reduce powertrain and driveline movement under load improve ride quality, while the addition of Launch Control provides drivers with a more consistent performance when accelerating from rest, reducing the amount of wheel slip.
“We have created a Launch Control feature on both the manual and automatic transmission that tailors torque delivery to ensure launch performance is optimised,” Bernie Quinn explained.
“The system is automatically enabled when the vehicle is started and is designed to give drivers a smooth, consistent launch on typical road surfaces.”
Visually the GT RSPEC is reminiscent of the famous 1969 Boss Mustang. The Mustang’s famous C-stripe is replicated on the new FPV GT RSPEC except with a ‘335’ identifier in the stripe, while there’s also a unique accent package including the lower and upper grille surrounds, fog lamp bezels, mirrors scalps, high performance spoiler with GT decal, and black painted exhaust tips.
A distinctive GT RSPEC badge is positioned on the lower left hand side boot lid.
Inside, Shadow leather sports seats with GT logo embroidery are complemented by a piano black finish around the ICC unit, tissue box and door spears.
Limited to a run of just 350 units, the GT RSPEC is available in four colour combinations, 175 of those committed to the ‘hero’ colour scheme of Silhouette (black) with Vixen (red) accents.
The remaining 175 units will be made up of Winter White, Vixen (red) and Kinetic (blue) with Silhouette (black) accents.
Each vehicle will come with its own new look unique build badge.
All other FPV GT options will continue to be available on the GT RSPEC series, including Brembo 6-piston front and 4 piston rear brakes, ZF 6 speed automatic transmission with sequential sports shift (no cost option) and satellite – navigation with SUNA Traffic Channel.
The recommended Manufacturer’s List Price* for the GT RSPEC is $76,990, at participating FPV Dealers only.
