What Does GT in Ford Stand for?
The abbreviation "GT" has a close association with performance among Ford enthusiasts, something the car maker encourages and continues to foster through several models.
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Significance
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Officially, "GT" doesn't stand for anything. However, it comes from the European "gran turismo" ("grand touring") classification. Over decades, "GT" came to stand for high-end Ford models, becoming synonymous with performance.
History
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The first usage of "GT" in Ford marketing was in 1965 as an optional equipment group. In 1966, the actual Ford GT model debuted, competing directly with the likes of Ferrari. The modified Mustang Shelby GT appeared in the late 1960s. All three were dropped and brought back over the years. The Ford GT was last made in 2006, while the Mustang GT remains in production today (as of 2010 model year).
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Features
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GTs come with the most power-minded options made by Ford--this means the most horsepower, the fastest tires, biggest rims and most speed-tuned suspension and exhaust systems. From its inception, the GT group also had the most luxury options--and therefore cost more than other Ford models.
Features
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The leading GT in the Ford lineup (as of 2010 model year) is the Mustang Shelby GT500, which has a 5.4-liter supercharged engine that far outstrips the standard GT motor, not to mention the non-GT Mustangs.
Identification
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GTs often come with racing stripes and other custom paint jobs directly from the dealer. The Shelby Mustangs, also known as Cobras, have a cobra snake emblem affixed to the body.
Fun Fact
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Another moniker associated with GT models is SVT, or "Special Vehicle Team," an offshoot of the Ford Performance Group. They simply modify regular Ford vehicles to GT standards, which are then sold through the dealer network.
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