Historic Ford GT Heritage Edition Hits Auction Block
In an unprecedented move, Ford Motor Company is parting with a prized piece from its heritage collection. The automaker will auction a 2006 Ford GT Heritage Edition, marking the first time the company has dispersed assets from its historically preserved vehicle vault. This exceptional offering features the iconic Gulf Oil racing livery, making it one of the most sought-after modern classics in automotive history.
Preserving Legacy Through Strategic Sales
Ford’s decision to auction this limited-production supercar represents a strategic shift in how automotive manufacturers manage their heritage collections. Rather than simply maintaining vehicles in storage, Ford is leveraging valuable assets to fund the preservation and acquisition of other historically significant models. The 2006 GT Heritage Edition represents the modern interpretation of Ford’s legendary GT40 race cars that dominated Le Mans in the 1960s.
The Gulf Livery Legacy
What makes this particular vehicle extraordinary is its distinctive blue and orange paint scheme honoring the partnership between Ford and Gulf Oil during the company’s racing heyday. The Heritage Edition package was among the most exclusive variants of the 2005-2006 Ford GT production run, with only a small percentage featuring this iconic color combination. The car maintains its original 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine producing 550 horsepower, capable of reaching 60 mph in under 3.5 seconds.
Barrett-Jackson’s Premier Auction Event
The gavel will fall on this piece of automotive history during Barrett-Jackson’s Scottsdale Fall Auction in Arizona. As one of the world’s premier collector car events, this venue attracts serious collectors and enthusiasts from across the globe. The auction presents a rare opportunity to acquire a museum-quality vehicle with impeccable provenance directly from the manufacturer’s collection.
This sale establishes a new precedent for how automotive heritage can be both preserved and shared with collectors worldwide. The proceeds will enable Ford to continue curating its historical collection while ensuring this magnificent machine finds a new home where it can be properly maintained and appreciated.