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Why did Ford put a V-6 in the Ford GT?

Ford's decision to equip the Ford GT supercar with a V-6 engine rather than a more powerful V-8 may have seemed unconventional, but it was a strategic move driven by performance, efficiency, and cost considerations.


Prioritizing Performance over Cylinder Count


The Ford GT was designed to be a high-performance, lightweight sports car. Ford engineers prioritized power-to-weight ratio and overall driving dynamics over raw engine displacement. The twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine in the Ford GT produces 660 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough to deliver exhilarating performance.


By using a V-6 instead of a larger V-8, Ford was able to reduce the overall weight of the vehicle, improving acceleration, handling, and fuel efficiency. This strategic decision allowed the Ford GT to better compete with other mid-engine supercars in its class.


Efficiency and Cost Considerations


In addition to performance benefits, the V-6 engine in the Ford GT also offered improved efficiency and lower production costs compared to a larger V-8 unit. The twin-turbo V-6 provided the power and torque needed for the Ford GT's performance targets while being more fuel-efficient and less expensive to manufacture than a high-displacement V-8.


This allowed Ford to price the GT more competitively and make it more accessible to a wider range of enthusiasts, without sacrificing the car's exceptional performance capabilities.


Embracing Modern Engine Technology


The Ford GT's V-6 engine also represented the company's embrace of modern, downsized engine technology. By leveraging turbocharging and advanced engineering, Ford was able to extract supercar-level performance from a relatively small-displacement V-6 engine. web> This approach aligned with broader industry trends towards more efficient, yet powerful, engine designs.


The decision to use a V-6 in the Ford GT was a calculated move that balanced performance, efficiency, and cost considerations, allowing Ford to create a world-class supercar that could compete with the best in its class.

Is a V6 Mustang better than a V8?


For many, the V6 has many compromises compared to the more powerful V8, but others find it to be the sweet spot between the base unit and the thirsty Coyote 5.0. One Mustang owner believes there's no reason to go for the more expensive Mustang GT and the 3.7 V6 is more than adequate for everyday driving.



Why did they put a V6 in the Ford GT?


The Ford GT in particular opted for the V6 instead of a V8 because the aerodynamics they were going for wouldn't allow an engine bay big enough for a V8.



Why choose a V6 over V8?


Advantages of a V6 engine
The smaller size of the V6 engine allows it to consume less fuel than a V8 engine or other larger engines. That typically means better mileage and potential savings at the pump. Having fewer cylinders reduces the weight of the V6 engine, and makes it lighter than a V8 engine.



Is a V6 Mustang better then a V8?


For many, the V6 has many compromises compared to the more powerful V8, but others find it to be the sweet spot between the base unit and the thirsty Coyote 5.0. One Mustang owner believes there's no reason to go for the more expensive Mustang GT and the 3.7 V6 is more than adequate for everyday driving.



When did the Ford GT get a V6?


The production started in December 2016 as a 2017 model year. The new GT supercar features rear-wheel drive, a mid-mounted engine, and a two-door coupe body shell. It is propelled by a twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 producing more than 600 horsepower. It was packed with technology and covered in beauty.



Why did Ford stop putting the V6 in Mustang?


Because Ford can't afford to replace each engine.



Did they make a Mustang GT with a V6?


Introduced for the 2015 model year to replace the fifth generation, the Mustang offered multiple engine configurations, including a 3.7-liter V6 engine, a 2.3-liter inline-four engine, and a 5.0-liter V8 engine for the V6 (discontinued in 2017), EcoBoost, and GT models, respectively.



What does GT stand for on a Ford?


grand tourer
GT stands for grand tourer or gran tourer, a type of car that's designed with both long-distance driving and high speeds in mind. These vehicles typically combine luxury and performance attributes, more often than not featuring a 2+2 seating configuration.



What year Mustang V6 is most reliable?


Some of the most reliable Ford Mustang models appear in the 5th generation, spanning from 2005 to 2014. This generation is widely regarded as one of the most reliable for Ford Mustangs. It provides several engine choices, including the well-liked 4.0L V6 and 4.6L V8 models.



Did Shelby make a V6 Mustang?


LAS VEGAS, Nov. 2 – At the 2005 SEMA show Shelby International announces the new Shelby CS 6 Mustang vehicle, a modified V6-engined 2006 Ford Mustang dubbed the CS 6.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.