Ford has established itself as a beacon of innovation and performance in the automotive industry, with a legacy of producing some truly extraordinary high-speed machines. Join us as we explore the top 18 fastest Fords ever built and uncover the unique features that make each of them remarkable in the world of high-performance vehicles.
1. **Ford GT (2005-2006)**: The mid-2000s marked the grand return of Ford’s iconic GT model, beautifully blending modern engineering with timeless design. Equipped with a supercharged V8 engine generating 550 horsepower, the GT could soar to speeds of up to 205 mph, securing its spot as one of the fastest American cars of its era.
2. **2017 Ford GT**: Fast forward a decade, and Ford released an all-new GT that took the automotive world by storm. Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost engine, the 2017 GT boasts 647 horsepower and a top speed of 216 mph. Its cutting-edge aerodynamics and race-bred technology make it a masterpiece of performance.
3. **Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 (2020)**: Muscle car enthusiasts were thrilled with the 2020 Shelby GT500, which packed a monstrous 5.2-liter supercharged V8 under the hood, delivering 760 horsepower. This pony car could sprint to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds and top out at 180 mph, proving that Mustangs can be both bold and blisteringly fast.
4. **Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 (2016)**: The GT350 was more than just a speed machine; it was engineered for the racetrack with a naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V8 engine that unleashed 526 horsepower. With a top speed of 180 mph and exceptional handling, it quickly became beloved among driving enthusiasts who crave precision and performance.
5. **Ford RS200 Evolution**: Although it may not be as celebrated as other Fords, the RS200 Evolution is a remarkable homologation special from the 1980s, designed for the intense world of rally racing. Its 2.1-liter turbocharged engine delivered a jaw-dropping 600 horsepower, allowing this lightweight marvel to reach a top speed of 150 mph on gravel, proving its worth in the competitive Group B rally scene.
6. **Ford Mustang SVT Cobra R (2000)**: Developed by Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT), the Cobra R was a no-nonsense performance machine. With a 5.4-liter V8 engine producing 385 horsepower, it could achieve a top speed of 170 mph, making it one of the fastest Mustangs of its era.
7. **Ford Falcon XY GTHO Phase III**: An Australian legend, the Falcon XY GTHO Phase III was the fastest four-door car in the world when it was released in 1971. Its 5.8-liter V8 engine delivered 300 horsepower, enabling it to reach a top speed of 141 mph, which was extraordinary for its time.
8. **Ford Torino Talladega**: In the late 1960s, Ford created the Torino Talladega as a special model for NASCAR homologation. Featuring a powerful 428-cubic-inch V8 engine, it could exceed speeds of 140 mph on the racetrack, making its mark in stock car racing and cementing its legacy in automotive history.
9. **Ford GT40 (1964-1969)**: The GT40 is not only iconic for its design but also for its performance. With various engines over its production years, including a 7.0-liter V8, it achieved speeds over 200 mph. Most famously, it conquered the 24 Hours of Le Mans four consecutive times from 1966 to 1969.
10. **Ford Focus RS (2016)**: The third-generation Focus RS brought rally-inspired performance to the road with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine producing 350 horsepower. Its all-wheel-drive system and dynamic handling allowed it to reach a top speed of 165 mph, making it a favorite among hot hatch enthusiasts.
11. **Ford Mustang Bullitt (2019)**: Paying homage to the iconic movie car from the 1968 film “Bullitt”, the 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt is a modern rendition that combines nostalgia with performance. Equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 480 horsepower, it achieves a top speed of 163 mph. With its dark Highland Green paint and retro styling cues, the Bullitt is a hit among car enthusiasts who appreciate both speed and cinematic history.
12. **Ford Thunderbird Super Coupe (1989-1995)**: A key figure in Ford’s performance lineage, the Thunderbird Super Coupe showcased a 3.8-liter supercharged V6 engine that initially produced 210 horsepower, which later rose to 230 horsepower. This model stood out for its unique combination of luxury and performance, achieving a top speed of 140 mph, appealing to those who desired both comfort and exhilaration.
13. **Ford Escort RS Cosworth (1992-1996)**: Originally conceived as a rally car, the Ford Escort RS Cosworth made a significant impact with its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that pumped out 227 horsepower. With its iconic ‘whale tail’ spoiler and all-wheel-drive system, this vehicle could hit speeds of 144 mph, solidifying its status as a renowned figure in the realm of rally-inspired performance vehicles.
14. **Ford Taurus SHO (Super High Output) (1989-1999)**: The Ford Taurus SHO was anything but a standard sedan. Powered by a Yamaha-sourced 3.0-liter V6 engine with a thrilling capability to rev up to 7,000 RPM, this sleeper produced 220 horsepower and could reach a top speed of 143 mph. It became a trailblazer in the high-performance family sedan category, delivering an unexpected level of excitement on the highway.
15. **Ford Explorer ST (2020)**: Not all performance vehicles are low to the ground. The Explorer ST redefines the speed potential of an SUV with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine delivering 400 horsepower, enabling it to sprint to a top speed of 143 mph. It combines the practicality of an SUV with Ford’s performance engineering, appealing to those who need space but crave speed.
16. **Ford Fiesta ST (2014)**: Compact yet mighty, the Fiesta ST houses a turbocharged 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces 197 horsepower. This hot hatch is known for its nimble handling and peppy acceleration, propelling drivers to a top speed of 144 mph. The Fiesta ST is adored for bringing affordable performance to the masses.
17. **Ford Focus ST (2013)**: As the more powerful sibling of the Fiesta ST, the Focus ST features a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 252 horsepower. This gives it the ability to reach a top speed of 155 mph, setting it apart in the competitive hot hatch segment with its potent mix of speed, agility, and everyday usability.
18. **Ford F-150 Lightning (2022)**: Entering the scene as a revolutionary electric vehicle, the F-150 Lightning stands out as a game-changer. This all-electric pickup truck boasts a robust dual-motor setup delivering up to 563 horsepower, achieving a top speed of 105 mph. While it may not surpass its gas-powered predecessors in sheer velocity, its instant torque and swift acceleration are redefining expectations for pickup trucks today.
In the fast-paced world of automotive advancements, Ford has consistently paved the way with these high-speed wonders. Each model, spanning from muscle cars to cutting-edge electric trucks, exemplifies Ford’s dedication to enhancing performance, ensuring that both enthusiasts and everyday drivers can enjoy the exhilarating thrill of speed.
Related posts:
Top 10 Fastest Cars in the World
TOP-10 fastest cars in the world
Top 10 Fastest Cars in the World: A Speed Demon’s Guide