Ford GT Mk. III Coupe (1968)
Production Total: The Ford GT Mk III, a road-going version of the GT40, was manufactured in the United Kingdom. Specifically, it was built at Ford's Advanced Vehicle facility in Slough, England. Only seven units of the Mk III were produced, making it a rare and unique model.
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Price New: The Ford GT Mk III coupe was priced at approximately £11,000 in the UK when it was released in 1968. This was an exceptionally high price for the time, reflecting its exclusivity and advanced engineering. Only seven units of this road-going version of the GT40 were ever produced, making it a rare gem in automotive history.
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Rivals: In 1968, the Ford GT Mk III's main rivals included high-performance sports cars like the Ferrari 275 GTB and the Lamborghini Miura. Here's a comparison of their approximate new prices in the UK at the time: -
**Ferrari 275 GTB**: Around £8,000–£9,000. -
**Lamborghini Miura**: Approximately £8,000–£10,000.
These prices were slightly lower than the Ford GT Mk III's £11,000, but all of these cars were considered exclusive and luxurious, catering to a niche market of enthusiasts.
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Recorded in UK 2025
As of 2025, there isn't specific data available for the exact number of Ford GT Mk III cars recorded in the UK. However, the Ford GT series as a whole is quite rare, with only a limited number of these vehicles still on the road. For precise information, you might consider checking the [DVLA database](https://www.gov.uk/get-vehicle-information-from-dvla) or specialized car registries that track classic and rare vehicles.
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COMMON FAULTS
The Ford GT Mk III, like many high-performance cars of its era, had a few quirks and potential issues. While specific data on the Mk III is limited due to its rarity, here are some general concerns associated with the GT series:
1. **Overheating
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Generations/Trim Levels
The Ford GT Mk III was a unique model within the GT40 lineage, and it didn't have multiple generations or trim levels. It was a road-going version of the GT40, designed for street use, and only seven units were ever produced. Its exclusivity and singular design make it a standout in automotive history.
If you're curious about other Ford GT models, such as the modern Ford GT (introduced in 2005 and later in 2017), those had more defined generations and variations.
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Engine
The Ford GT Mk III was equipped with a **4.7-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine**, producing **306 brake horsepower (bhp)** at 6,000 rpm and a torque of **329 lb-ft (446 Nm)** at 4,200 rpm. This engine was a slightly detuned version of the one used in the racing GT40 models, designed to make it more suitable for road use.
It was a true powerhouse for its time, blending performance with exclusivity.
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Performance
The Ford GT Mk III delivered impressive performance for its time. It had a top speed of **165 mph (265 km/h)** and could accelerate from **0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.2 seconds**. Its lightweight design and powerful 4.7-liter V8 engine made it a thrilling road car, even though it was slightly detuned compared to its racing counterparts.
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Rivals
In 1968, the Ford GT Mk III faced competition from high-performance sports cars like the Ferrari 275 GTB and the Lamborghini Miura. Here's a comparison of their performance:
- **Ferrari 275 GTB**: Top speed of around **165 mph (265 km/h)** and 0-60 mph in approximately **6.0 seconds**.
- **Lamborghini Miura**: Top speed of about **171 mph (275 km/h)** and 0-60 mph in roughly **5.5 seconds**.
These rivals offered similar or slightly better performance compared to the Ford GT Mk III, which had a top speed of **165 mph** and a 0-60 mph time of **5.2 seconds**. However, each car had its own unique appeal, from the Miura's groundbreaking mid-engine design to the Ferrari's classic front-engine layout.
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Designer/Dimensions
The Ford GT Mk III was designed by **Ron Bradshaw**, who played a key role in shaping the GT40 series.
As for its dimensions, the Mk III had the following measurements:
- **Length**: 4,293 mm (169 inches)
- **Width**: 1,778 mm (70 inches)
- **Height**: 1,029 mm (40.5 inches)
- **Wheelbase**: 2,420 mm (95.3 inches)
- **Kerb Weight**: Approximately 998 kg (2,200 lbs).
Its low-slung design and compact dimensions contributed to its iconic appearance and aerodynamic efficiency.
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Spares/Specialists NI
For locating spares for the Ford GT Mk III in Northern Ireland, you can explore specialized Ford parts suppliers like [Trust Ford Parts & Accessories](https://www.bing.com/search?q=Trust%20Ford%20Parts%20%26%20Accessories&filters=local_ypid%3a%22YN1029x12195107813604870175%22) in Lisburn or [Mid Ulster Ford Breakers](https://www.midulsterfordbreakers.co.uk/) in Cookstown. These places offer a range of Ford parts, including rare and second-hand options.
As for garage services, Northern Ireland has several reputable options for vehicle servicing and repairs. For example:
- [MJS Garage Services Ltd.](https://www.mjsgarageservices.com/?y_source=1_MTA5NDMwMTg1Mi00ODMtbG9jYXRpb24ud2Vic2l0ZQ%3D%3D) in Dungannon provides comprehensive services, including diagnostics and repairs.
- [Commons Brae Garage](https://www.bing.com/search?q=Commons%20Brae%20Garage&filters=local_ypid%3a%22YN1029x10449044347235568160%22) in Belfast is known for reliable car repairs.
- [McCormick's Garage](https://www.mccormicksgarage.co.uk/) in Newtownards offers high-quality servicing and MOT preparation.
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Valuation
The Ford GT Mk III is an exceptionally rare and collectible car, with only seven units ever produced. In 2025, its value in the UK is estimated to be in the range of **£2.5 million to £5.5 million**, depending on its condition, provenance, and originality.
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Clubs
While there doesn't appear to be a dedicated Ford GT owners' club in Northern Ireland, there are broader Ford enthusiasts' clubs that might welcome Ford GT owners. For example:
- **Capri Club Northern Ireland**: This club focuses on Ford Capris but also hosts events for other classic Ford models.
- **Ford Owners Club**: While it doesn't specifically cater to Northern Ireland, it has discussions and events that might interest Ford GT owners.
You could also consider reaching out to local car clubs or forums to connect with other Ford GT enthusiasts. *****