This 800-HP GT40-Inspired Supercar Can Hit 205 MPH With V10 Power

The Ford GT40 is one of the most revered race cars of all time. Built to conquer endurance racing, the iconic machine famously swept the podium with a 1-2-3 finish over Ferrari at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans.

60 years later, South African manufacturer Cape Advanced Vehicles (CAV) believes that legendary story deserves a modern sequel. The company has unveiled the CAV GT MkII, an all-new GT40-inspired restomod that combines the iconic styling of the original with modern supercar performance technology.

More Than 25 Years Of GT40 Expertise

CAV is no stranger to building GT40-inspired machines, having delivered more than 250 examples to customers worldwide over the past quarter-century. Unlike many restomods, however, the GT MkII has been engineered from the ground up rather than "updated." It rides on a carbon fiber and aluminum monocoque, while every exterior body panel is made from carbon fiber to keep weight below 3,000 pounds (1,350 kg).

Although the silhouette is instantly recognizable, the design has been thoroughly modernized. Massive air intakes, swan-wing doors, thin headlights surrounded by carbon fiber, circular taillights, and an active dual-layer Gurney spoiler give the car a far more contemporary appearance without losing the essence of the original GT40.

Choose Between V8 And V10 Power

Because the GT MkII is built to order, buyers have plenty of freedom when configuring their car. The standard powertrain is an Audi-derived 4.2-liter V8 with two superchargers that produces 800 horsepower (588 kW) and 649 lb-ft (880 Nm) of torque when fed 95 RON fuel. Customers can also choose between a naturally aspirated V8 or a twin-turbocharged V10.

Unlike the original Ford racer, the GT MkII features all-wheel drive, while transmission choices include a six-speed semi-automatic, a traditional manual, or a dual-clutch automatic. According to CAV, the GT MkII can sprint from 0 to 62 mph (100 kph) in just 3.0 seconds, and can reach a top speed of more than 205 mph (330 kph).

While the latest V6-powered Ford GT is a monster around the track, the CAV GT MkII is all about reincarnating the old-school racecar's wild side.

Classic Looks With Modern Convenience

Despite its exotic credentials, CAV says the GT MkII was designed to be far easier to live with than most low-volume supercars. Power steering, modern tires, generous luggage space, and readily available OEM spare parts are all intended to make ownership less intimidating. The car also features six driving modes, ABS, active aerodynamics, stability and traction control, and airbags, bringing the classic GT40 formula firmly into the modern era.

Production will remain highly exclusive, with CAV planning to build around 10 cars per year. Buyers looking for something even more special can opt for the GT MkII 60th Anniversary Edition, inspired by the GT40's famous Le Mans victory. Finished in heritage racing liveries and enhanced with premium materials and unique detailing, the commemorative model will be limited to just 40 examples worldwide.

View the full article