When Ford reintroduced the GT in the mid-2000s, it wasn't just building a supercar -- it was reviving a legend. The 2006 Ford GT Heritage Edition, specifically chassis No. 3, is a pristine example of how heritage and innovation can coexist in perfect harmony. Finished in the unmistakable Gulf Oil powder blue and orange livery, this rare collector's masterpiece isn't just a nod to the past -- it's a living bridge between Ford's racing dominance of the 1960s and the brand's modern commitment to engineering excellence.
As one of just 343 Heritage Editions ever produced, this particular GT carries extraordinary provenance. It has been part of Ford's own collection since new, carefully preserved and showcased at exclusive automotive events while accumulating just over 8,000 miles. Now, it's set to cross the block at Barrett-Jackson's Scottsdale Fall Auction on October 18, with all proceeds returning to Ford to support the preservation of its historic vehicle archive -- a fitting continuation of its legacy.
The Heritage Edition's striking design draws direct inspiration from the Ford GT40 Mk I, the endurance racer that famously ended Ferrari's domination at Le Mans in 1966 and went on to secure four consecutive victories through 1969. Specifically, the powder blue and orange livery pays homage to the Gulf Oil-sponsored GT40s that claimed victory in 1968 and 1969 under the management of John Wyer.
This wasn't merely a styling exercise. Ford's engineers meticulously recreated the proportions, stance, and aerodynamics that defined the original GT40, while integrating cutting-edge performance technology for the 21st century. The result was a car that not only looked like a racing icon reborn but also performed like one.
Under the rear clamshell sits a 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine that produces a staggering 550 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed Ricardo manual gearbox. The powertrain delivers explosive acceleration -- 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds -- and a top speed exceeding 200 mph.
Unlike many modern supercars that rely on electronic assistance, the first-generation Ford GT delivers a pure mechanical driving experience. Its mid-engine layout, lightweight aluminum chassis, and race-tuned suspension give it exceptional balance and precision. The unassisted steering offers direct feedback from the road, making it an enthusiast's dream.
The Heritage Edition, however, elevates the experience beyond performance. Each of the 343 examples received special finishes, numbered badging, and hand-applied paintwork in the signature Gulf Oil colors. The limited-edition trim also features BBS forged aluminum wheels, orange brake calipers, and a minimalist interior trimmed in Ebony leather with contrasting stitching -- a tasteful nod to the GT's racing lineage without unnecessary flash.
While the original GT40 was a tool of domination -- purpose-built to crush European competition -- the 2006 Ford GT was a celebration of American innovation. Ford intended it as a showcase of what its design and engineering teams could achieve when unbound by traditional constraints.
What makes this particular Heritage Edition No. 3 so special is its journey. It has remained under Ford's ownership since birth, serving as a rolling testament to the brand's motorsport heritage. Unlike many examples that were spirited away into private collections, this car has been part of Ford's official corporate fleet, displayed at major automotive events and industry showcases as a symbol of the company's legacy.
The odometer, showing just over 8,000 miles, reflects careful use -- enough to keep the car in ideal running condition, yet minimal enough to preserve its originality and value. Every mile tells a story of craftsmanship, history, and reverence for what the GT represents.
In the collector car market, few modern vehicles command the same reverence as the 2005-2006 Ford GT, and the Heritage Edition models sit at the very top of that hierarchy. Their blend of low production numbers, direct connection to motorsport history, and flawless design makes them perennial blue-chip investments.
The Heritage Edition's rarity and association with the Gulf livery -- arguably the most recognizable color scheme in racing history -- only amplify its appeal. Original GT40s wearing the same colors have fetched tens of millions at auction, and while the modern iteration carries a more accessible price tag, its cultural significance is just as profound.
The upcoming Barrett-Jackson auction offers collectors something far more meaningful than ownership -- it's an opportunity to preserve a tangible piece of Ford's racing DNA. With proceeds going directly to Ford's preservation fund, the winning bidder will not only secure an extraordinary automobile but also contribute to the conservation of American automotive history.
Nearly two decades after its production, the 2006 Ford GT remains a benchmark for design integrity and mechanical purity. It refuses to rely on nostalgia alone; instead, it reinvents it. The combination of visceral power, timeless styling, and craftsmanship reminds enthusiasts why Ford's original "GT" formula remains one of the most influential in automotive history.
This Heritage Edition No. 3 represents the perfect balance between preservation and performance -- a car that has lived a life of celebration rather than confinement. It's a collector's dream, a driver's delight, and a living tribute to one of the greatest eras in racing.
As it prepares to find its next caretaker, this GT doesn't just carry the weight of history -- it carries its spirit. From Le Mans to Scottsdale, the legacy of the Ford GT continues to inspire new generations of enthusiasts who understand that true greatness never fades; it evolves.