Ford Power and Passion on Display |
Ford Power and Passion on Display |
 2005 Ford GT |
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2nd February, 2005 Brisbane Motor Show patrons can look forward to a Ford stand promising all the power, passion and prestige synonymous with the legendary Blue Oval. From the stunning lines of the Ford GT supercar to the powerful new member of the Ford tough truck family – the Courier V6 – the Ford stand has a vehicle to suit any requirements. Headlining the stand will be the awesome Ford GT – a vehicle designed to showcase the engineering expertise of the Ford Motor Company for its 2003 Centennial celebrations. Billed as the "pace car for an entire company", the GT has performance to match or beat the best sports cars in the world. Powered by an all-aluminium, 5.4-litre supercharged V8 engine, it produces 410kW and 678Nm of torque. Unveiled at the 2002 North American International Auto Show, the GT40 concept became an instant sensation. Just 45 days after the vehicle was unveiled, Ford stunned the world again by officially announcing that a production version was in the works. Although the new production car and the original race car both share the mystique of the Ford GT name, they do not share a single dimension. The new car is more than 450mm longer and stands nearly 100mm taller. Its new lines draw upon and refine the best features of the Ford GT40 history while expressing the car's identity through modern proportions and surface development. The Ford GT production car casts the familiar, sleek look of its namesake – yet every dimension, curve and line on the car is a unique reinterpretation of the original. The car features a long front overhang reminiscent of 1960's era race cars but its sweeping cowl, subtle accent lines and high-intensity-discharge (HID) headlamps strike a distinctly contemporary pose. The front quarter panels curve over 18-inch wheels and Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tyres. In the tradition of original Ford GT racers, the doors are cut into the roof, while prominent on the leading edge of the rear quarter panel are functional scoops that channel fresh air into the engine. The rear wheel wells, filled with 19-inch wheels and tyres, define the rear of the car, while the accent line from the front cowl rejoins and finishes the car's profile at the integrated "ducktail" spoiler. The interior design incorporates the novel "ventilated seats" and instrument layout of the original car, with straight forward analogue gauges and a large tachometer. Modern versions of the original car's toggle switches operate key systems. The backlight reveals the essence of the sports car in a 5.4-litre supercharged version of Ford's MOD V8 engine. The finishing touches are "Ford Blue" cam covers, each featuring an aluminium coil cover imprinted with the words "Powered by Ford." Chassis and powertrain The Ford GT team knew this road car would require a stiff structure, much like a race car, so they developed an all-aluminium space frame comprising extrusions, castings and several stampings. The hybrid aluminium space frame chassis is based on the efficient use of 35 extrusions, seven complex castings, two semi-solid formed castings and various stamped aluminium panels. The new Ford GT is intended for the road, unlike the original 1960s race cars that ultimately spawned a limited number of production road cars. However, the new car required unique race-like engineering solutions, like engineering out the aerodynamic 'lift' inherent in the original car's design, for a car that has been clocked at 330 km/h. The new Ford GT includes race-inspired ground effects ducting under the rear fascia. The Ford GT features many new and unique technologies, including super-plastic formed aluminium body panels, roll-bonded floor panels, a friction-stir welded centre tunnel, a cap-less fuel filler system, one-piece door panels and an aluminium engine cover with a one-piece carbon fibre inner panel. As on the historic race car, the aluminium body panels are unstressed. Instead of the steel or honeycomb-composite tubs used in the 1960s, the Ford GT team developed an all-new aluminium space frame as the foundation. The chassis features unequal-length control arms and coil-over spring-damper units to allow for its low profile. Braking is handled by aluminium Brembo monoblock, four piston calipers with cross-drilled and vented rotors at all four corners. When the rear canopy is opened, the rear suspension components and engine become the car's focal point. Precision-cast aluminium suspension components and 19-inch Goodyear tyres, combined with the overwhelming presence of the V8 engine, create a striking appearance and communicate the performance credentials of the Ford GT. Based on the largest V8 in Ford's modular engine family, the GT engine features 85 per cent new moving parts and produces 410kW and 678Nm of torque. Both figures are comparable to those of the 7.0-litre engine that won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1966 and 1967. The 5.4-litre powerplant is all-aluminium and fed by an Eaton screw-type supercharger. It features four-valve cylinder heads and forged components, including the crankshaft, H-beam connecting rods and aluminium pistons. Power is put to the road through a Ricardo six-speed manual transaxle featuring a helical limited-slip differential. Race history The original Ford GT racers were engineering and design marvels demonstrating Ford's dedication and perseverance. In a few short years, under the direction of Henry Ford II, the company built a programmeme from scratch that reached the pinnacle of international motor sports competition – and stayed there for four racing seasons. Perhaps the world's most significant and glamorous motor sport contest, Le Mans in the early 1960s was showing signs of becoming a Ferrari showcase, but the Ford GT changed Le Mans forever.
Brisbane Motor Show performance aficionados will relish the Ford Performance Vehicles stand and the arrival of the exciting new turbo-charged F6 Typhoon and upgraded GT and GT-P models. The MkII FPV range features a number of significant modifications, including the addition of a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox in all models as well as numerous interior, exterior and specification upgrades. “There is no doubt that Ford Performance Vehicles has made its mark on the Australian high-performance segment,” Managing Director of FPV, David Flint, said. What's new
Six of the best The introduction of a new close-ratio six speed manual gearbox has been designed to enhance driving enjoyment and performance on all FPV models. All FPV vehicles will feature, as part of the transmission upgrade, an exclusive racing-inspired Shift Alert to optimise acceleration and performance. The driver will hear an audible warning as the engine speed is approaching maximum revs, prompting the driver to change gears before the electronic rev limiter. Automatic choice The decision on whether to purchase a manual or automatic gearbox no longer comes down to price. FPV has revised its recommended retail pricing structure on all Boss 290-powered vehicles – GT, GT-P and Pursuit – to offer the high-tech new six-speed manual gearbox or the four-speed automatic with Sports Sequential Shift for the same price. The F6 Typhoon will be available exclusively with the close-ratio six-speed manual transmission. Spring is in the air Ford Performance Vehicles has modified the suspension settings on its GT and GT-P to enhance its high-performance handling capabilities without compromising its comfort. The spring rates in the double-wishbone front suspension have been increased by 14 per cent while the spring rates on the award-winning Control Blade independent rear suspension have been beefed up by 10 per cent to improve the cars’ handling during spirited driving. The F6 Typhoon will adopt the revised rear suspension from the GT and GT-P and the Pursuit maintains the settings from the original model. Inside out The driver’s cockpit in all FPV models has been revised with the addition of exclusive Sports Instrument gauges and upgraded Interior Command Centre features. The Boss V8-powered models of GT, GT-P and Pursuit will feature twin-pod Sports Instrument gauges displaying oil pressure and oil temperature while the F6 Typhoon has twin-pod Sports Instrument gauges with turbo boost pressure and oil pressure. The Sports Instrument gauges are mounted on the top of the Interior Command Centre and are positioned towards the driver for optimum vision. The Interior Command Centre has also been upgraded on all vehicles, with the sedans now featuring the range-topping large TFT colour screen with dual-zone air conditioning and Premium Sound system as standard equipment. The Premium Sound consists of a 150 Watt system with amplifier, sub woofer, six speakers and a six-disc in-dash CD player. All FPV models also carry the feature upgrades introduced across the Falcon range with the MkII update, including automatic on/off headlights and illuminated power window switches. Stripe me up The popularity of the heritage-inspired stripes on the original FPV GT and GT-P has paved the way for a wider choice of colours with the new-look package on the MkII lineup, which now includes a bold Boss 290 hood decal. The MkII package, which replaces the two solid stripes on the original models with a bold lower stripe, key line stripe and hood decal, will also be available on Pursuit for the first time as a factory-fitted option. The Boss 290 hood decal accentuates the racing-inspired bonnet bulge that is a signature design feature on all Boss-powered vehicles. Wheels of fire Increasing the road-holding ability and visual presence of the range-topping GT-P, FPV has added stunning, new-design 19-inch alloy wheels as standard equipment – the largest wheel and tyre package fitted to an Australian-built Ford product. The aggressive five-spoke design with its polished finish is in keeping with the premium philosophy of the GT-P and highlights the Brembo brakes that are fitted as standard.
A slick new six-speed manual transmission in the XR6 Turbo and XR8 performance vehicles heads a list of changes for the Falcon MkII. "The BA Falcon represented a big step forward for Ford Australia when it was introduced in 2002. The BA Falcon MkII is already building on the success of that model," said Ford Australia President Tom Gorman. "With the launch of BA, the XR range of performance vehicles reignited the passion of driving enthusiasts around the country. "The new cars combined an outstanding mix of superb driving dynamics with a range of powerplants including the exhilarating XR6 Turbo and the heady four-valve Boss 260 V8. "XR led the showroom charge in the BA range, increasing sales mix from 6.8 per cent of total Falcon sales in 2002 to more than 27 per cent in 2004. "Now our new six-speed manual transmission, fine tuned by the FPV engineers to provide optimum performance, adds another jewel to the performance line-up," Gorman said. Gorman said the MkII update built on the inherent strengths of the BA programme. "The award-winning BA Falcon not only gained critical acclaim but won a host of important motoring, engineering and safety awards as well. "More importantly it spearheaded a revival in the sales fortunes of Ford Australia built on providing product that inspires passion and confidence in the market. "It also heralded a new era in motorsport with Marcos Ambrose winning back-to-back V8 Supercar championships for the Blue Oval in 2003 and 2004. "MkII represents a further development of the BA Falcon with the changes driven by customer demand for extra features." Creature comforts such as cruise control and automatic headlamps are now standard throughout the Falcon range and power adjustable pedals are standard on Futura. Futura safety levels have also been boosted significantly with the MkII version now boasting side airbags as standard equipment. The Falcon Ute range also features heavily in the MkII upgrade, with new creature comforts, alloy rims and exciting new paint colours. "This update signals Ford Australia's intention to continue providing locally designed and engineered product that motivates people into Ford showrooms." Gorman said the BA Falcon MkII would deliver a truly exhilarating driving
experience with its comprehensive mix of locally engineered design excellence,
including:
Of course, the MkII comes complete with the Intelligent Safety System that won the coveted Gold award at the Society of Australia Engineers Excellence Awards in 2003," Gorman said. Other safety features include anti-intrusion (collapsible) brake pedal on automatic models, front and rear impact management body structure, and ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution for improved stopping performance and steering control. "The Falcon MkII offers superior value that exceeds expectations and is both desirable and attainable, whether you yearn for the performance of the XR6 Turbo or the refined comfort of the Fairmont Ghia. "With features such as IRS, cruise control and the award winning Intelligent Safety System, the Falcon MkII value proposition is unmatched," said Gorman.
A full complement of the award-winning Ford Territory will be on show at Brisbane, including the latest addition to the best-selling SUV line-up – the mid-range TS. Territory has taken local showrooms by storm since its 1st June, 2004 launch and has quickly assumed monthly sales leadership. Territory TS completes the model line-up, slotting between the entry level TX and the range-topping Ghia. All Territory vehicles come complete with the relatively powerful Barra 182 4.0-litre six-cylinder engine, Sequential Sports Shift automatic transmission, advanced driving dynamics and user friendly features such as electronically adjustable pedals. “When we sat down to build Territory, one thought uppermost in the minds of everybody was to ensure the vehicle was true to the Ford philosophy of providing outstanding value for money,” Ford Australia President Tom Gorman said. “People buying a Territory are getting the vehicle dynamics of a sedan, the versatility of a traditional SUV and the interior flexibility of a people mover. They are also purchasing the vehicle that won the 2004 Australian Design Award of the Year and was named best recreational vehicle in the prestigious Australia's Best Car awards," Gorman said. Territory TS comes complete with the Ford Acutrac handling system, incorporating the advanced Virtual Pivot Control Link front suspension and the award-winning Control Blade IRS for unrivalled ride quality and driving dynamics. The Territory TS builds on the considerable comfort and safety levels built into the entry level Territory TX. "Significantly, Territory TS joins the Territory Ghia as the only Australian-built vehicles to include locally manufactured side curtain airbags. "As well, the TS includes creature comforts such as dual zone climate control air-conditioning, premium Interior Command Centre with large colour screen, an uprated six-stack CD sound system and cruise control with steering wheel mounted function switches," Gorman said. Externally, Territory TS features five-spoke alloy rims and accent coloured bumpers. Topping out the Territory range is the luxurious Territory Ghia. “The range-topping Territory remains true to the Ghia nameplate, which has come to symbolise the best in locally manufactured prestige motoring. Territory Ghia builds on the high levels of comfort in the TX and TS versions of Territory, and adds leather seat trim, Reverse Sensing System, unique alloy rims, front fog lamps and body coloured bumpers, cladding, rockers, liftgate moulding and mirrors.”
Ford Australia has been honoured with three trophies in the prestigious 2004 Australia's Best Cars Awards. The Falcon MkII XT was named the Best Family Car, the all-new Territory TX AWD won the Best Recreational 4WD title and the Fiesta LX three-door was named Australia's Best Small Car. It is the third successive year a Falcon has secured the highly sought after Best Family Car award. "To win one award in Australia's Best Cars is an honour," said Ford Australia President Tom Gorman. "Winning three is a sensational achievement and just reinforces the pride that everyone in Ford Australia feels with delivering great vehicles." Australia's Best Cars are judged by representatives from all of Australia's motoring clubs - the NRMA Motoring & Services, RACV, RACQ, RAASA, RACWA, RACT and AANT. Considered the nation's most consumer-focused motoring awards, they are based on a unique objective scoring system taking into account value for money, design, function and performance. "It's a fantastic effort for Falcon to win the Best Family Car award three years in succession, particularly when you consider the array of new models rolled out against it in that time. "We were quietly confident Territory would be a very good vehicle while we were planning it, but to have a vehicle that in its first few months on sale becomes the biggest selling SUV in the country and then takes out a prestigious Australia's Best Car award is a dream come true. "And we are extremely happy for Fiesta to win the Best Small Car title in only its first year on sale. It's been an award winner with critics around the world, but I'm sure this trophy is right up there in terms of its recognition." Gorman said.
Ford Australia's newest light truck hero – a V6 powered PH Courier – will be on show at Brisbane. Courier V6 offers class leading power and torque from its mighty 4.0-litre V6 engine, as well as two new transmissions, a unique suspension specification and a host of new interior features. “The Courier range now boasts six-cylinder power for the first time in its long history,” Courier Brand Marketing Manager Damon Paull said. “With class leading power and torque, the Courier V6 is set to become the new benchmark for customers wanting big six-cylinder performance in conjunction with Courier's renowned workhorse capabilities and light truck versatility.” On sale now, Courier V6 employs a 4.0-litre SOHC V6 engine producing a class-leading 154kW of power at 5250rpm and an equally impressive 323Nm of torque at 3000rpm. With an established pedigree from its service in Ford products around the world, the German-built engine offers a whole new level of power and performance to light truck customers. Courier V6 is offered in both 4x2 and 4x4 configurations, across Super Cab and Crew Cab body styles and in GL and XLT specification levels, providing customers with an even greater selection of Courier models to choose from. The Courier line-up now extends to 31 variants in total – 23 variants in the Courier four-cylinder range and eight variants in the Courier V6 range. Courier V6 also offers a choice of two new transmissions, a heavy duty five-speed manual and the option of a sophisticated five-speed automatic on Crew Cab models. The suspension on both 4x2 and 4x4 Courier V6 models is a unique ‘Hi Ride’ version of the four-cylinder Courier 4x4 set-up, which has been raised by 20mm to facilitate the installation of the V6 engine. The unique suspension specification gives all Courier V6 models greater ground clearance and a more aggressive stance, while at the same time offering the driver a commanding view of the road. In addition to the list of enhancements introduced with the recent PH upgrade for four-cylinder Courier models, all Courier V6 variants will also feature an 80-litre fuel tank, standard air conditioning and a large double-lid centre console storage compartment with integrated arm rest and ‘cooler box’. Crew Cab models feature headrests for the outer seating positions on the rear bench seat, as well as a rear seat centre armrest with two in-built cup holders, while 4x4 models showcase the centre console-mounted 2WD-4WD-4WD Low selector switch in conjunction with the electronic remote front wheel hub lock. Courier V6 has its own palette of exterior colours to further distinguish the V6 models from their four-cylinder counterparts. Two solid paint colours are available, Satin White and Colorado Red, along with six metallic colours – Pure Silver, Storm Grey, Ruby Red, Jeans Blue, Ink Blue and Black Sapphire. “The introduction of Courier V6 will raise the stakes in the ultra competitive light truck market,” Paull said. “Courier V6 builds on the established reputation of the Courier brand, boasting an engine with class-leading power and torque and an optional five-speed automatic transmission, as well as an impressive array of new features that are sure to appeal to light truck customers.”
The continuing World Rally Championship success of Ford Focus has been celebrated in Australia with the release of the rally-inspired, special edition Focus Zetec R. Incorporating the rally-bred ride and handling characteristics inherent across the entire Focus range, Focus Zetec R is available as a five door hatch with a choice of either automatic or manual transmission. The extensive list of extras includes:
"Focus Zetec R SVP is an exciting addition to the Ford Focus model line-up in Australia," says Ford Australia Small Car Brand Manager, Anthony Ficarra. "The 17" alloy wheels, front and rear bumper skirts and the large rear spoiler really give the Zetec R an enhanced athletic appearance. Interior features such as the leather gear knob and handbrake complete the picture. "Focus Zetec R is also a sensational value package. Offering more than $4200 of extra value for no additional cost, it really is an unbeatable deal." Focus Zetec R will be available in a choice of four colours – Machine Silver, Colorado Red, Ink Blue and Panther Black. |
