13 August 2012
By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS
Go Auto
FORD Performance Vehicles has released a track-focussed GT limited edition, introducing a launch control function for the first time, along with a host of suspension modifications, but no performance or brake upgrades.
Dubbed RSPEC (for Racetrack Specification) and priced from $76,990, production will be limited to 350 sedans and 75 utes, all boasting a paint and stripe package reminiscent of Ford’s iconic Mustang of the late 1960s.
In stark contrast to the new entry-level Holden Special Vehicles ClubSport models announced just last week, the RSPEC will sit at the upper end of FPV’s V8 range of FG-derived performance sedans, plugging the gap between the $70,790 GT on which it is based and the $82,090 GT-P/$82,490 GT-E luxury flagship versions.
It is powered by the locally built all-alloy ‘Miami’ Boss 335 5.0-litre supercharged V8 petrol engine introduced two years ago, which continues to deliver 335kW of power and 570Nm of torque to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual or six-speed ZF automatic gearbox.
The new launch control system – enabled from ignition – helps optimise torque delivery for “smooth, consistent launch on typical road surfaces”, according to Bernie Quinn, the chief engineer of FPV parent company Prodrive Australia.
To that end, stiffer transmission mounts have also been fitted to reduce powertrain and driveline movement under load, as well as improve ride quality.
The rear suspension gains higher spring rates, retuned dampers, reinforced lower control arms and a thicker anti-roll bar, while the front end also receives the modified dampers, as well as stiffer upper control arm bushes and upper strut mounts.
For improved cornering and traction capabilities, the RSPEC also adopts new nine-inch rear wheels shod with the 275/35 R19 Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT tyres first seen on the 125 GT Black cars of last year, along with a revised toe setting on the rear wheel alignment for better turn-in response.
“From the outset with the GT RSPEC, we wanted more agile handling with better traction, and so the suspension had to be considered holistically, unlike the aftermarket, where you might bolt on a set of wider tyres and hope for the best,” said Mr Quinn.
“The new car thus received a significant number of component changes to develop this totally integrated package.”
Full text at link
By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS
Go Auto
FORD Performance Vehicles has released a track-focussed GT limited edition, introducing a launch control function for the first time, along with a host of suspension modifications, but no performance or brake upgrades.
Dubbed RSPEC (for Racetrack Specification) and priced from $76,990, production will be limited to 350 sedans and 75 utes, all boasting a paint and stripe package reminiscent of Ford’s iconic Mustang of the late 1960s.
In stark contrast to the new entry-level Holden Special Vehicles ClubSport models announced just last week, the RSPEC will sit at the upper end of FPV’s V8 range of FG-derived performance sedans, plugging the gap between the $70,790 GT on which it is based and the $82,090 GT-P/$82,490 GT-E luxury flagship versions.
It is powered by the locally built all-alloy ‘Miami’ Boss 335 5.0-litre supercharged V8 petrol engine introduced two years ago, which continues to deliver 335kW of power and 570Nm of torque to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual or six-speed ZF automatic gearbox.
The new launch control system – enabled from ignition – helps optimise torque delivery for “smooth, consistent launch on typical road surfaces”, according to Bernie Quinn, the chief engineer of FPV parent company Prodrive Australia.
To that end, stiffer transmission mounts have also been fitted to reduce powertrain and driveline movement under load, as well as improve ride quality.
The rear suspension gains higher spring rates, retuned dampers, reinforced lower control arms and a thicker anti-roll bar, while the front end also receives the modified dampers, as well as stiffer upper control arm bushes and upper strut mounts.
For improved cornering and traction capabilities, the RSPEC also adopts new nine-inch rear wheels shod with the 275/35 R19 Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT tyres first seen on the 125 GT Black cars of last year, along with a revised toe setting on the rear wheel alignment for better turn-in response.
“From the outset with the GT RSPEC, we wanted more agile handling with better traction, and so the suspension had to be considered holistically, unlike the aftermarket, where you might bolt on a set of wider tyres and hope for the best,” said Mr Quinn.
“The new car thus received a significant number of component changes to develop this totally integrated package.”
Full text at link