Ford GT70

 👉The Ford GT70: A Rally-Bred Gem

The Ford GT70 was designed by Ercole Spada and produced by Ford UK in 1970. Intended for use in the World Rally Championship, this unique sports car aimed to compete with high-speed rally legends like the Porsche 911 and Renault Alpine. Here are the key details:

➡️Design and Purpose:

• The GT70 featured a mid-mounted engine layout with rear-wheel drive.
• Len Bailey, the chief engineer behind the Ford GT40 project, contributed to the GT70’s bodywork and chassis design.
• Its purpose was clear: to conquer the rally stages with agility and speed.

➡️Performance and Challenges:

• Initially, the GT70 was designed to accommodate various engines. The first models were equipped with the 2.6-liter Cologne V6 from the Ford Capri RS2600, producing 240 bhp (179 kW).

➡️However, early testing revealed challenges:

• The frame lacked stiffness.
• The cockpit was cramped.
• The V6 engine’s high center of gravity affected handling.

➡️Limited Production:

• Only six GT70s were ever built, making them rare gems.
• One participated in the 1971 Ronde Cevenole Rally in France, driven by Roger Clark, but faced engine, suspension, and braking issues.
• Another ran in the 1971 Tour de France Automobile, driven by Francois Mazet and Jean Todt, but unfortunately collided with a bridge parapet in the Alps.
• Ford France modified a third GT70, fitting it with a 1.6-liter Cosworth BDA straight-four engine, a 5-speed Hewland gearbox, and a BP livery. Guy Chasseuil drove it in the 1972 and 1973 French tarmac championships.

➡️Restoration and Concept Car:

• One GT70 chassis was used as a press car, while another served for race car development.
• The GT70 originally modified by Ford France was restored in 2002, now featuring a 2-liter Cosworth BDG engine.
• The remaining sixth chassis received a new body designed by Filippo Sapino at Ford Design Europe studio in Turin. Carrozzeria Ghia brought it to life.
• The resulting concept car was showcased at the 1971 Turin Auto Show, featuring a flat decklid and faux fastback buttresses.

In summary, the Ford GT70 may not have achieved rally dominance, but its rarity, engineering, and racing spirit continue to captivate enthusiasts. 🌟