Seldom has the burden of expectation weighed more on a new car than with the second-generation Ford GT. Inspired by the legendary four-time 24 Hours of Le Mans-winning GT40 of the 1960s, Ford’s follow-up to the revered, first-generation GT—produced from 2005 to 2006—was created with one overriding goal: to win its class at the 2016 24 Hours of Le Mans, 50 years after the GT40’s fabled 1-2-3 sweep at the French endurance race.

Ford tapped Multimatic, the Ontario-based firm—which helped develop the Aston Martin One-77, Porsche 963, and RUF CTR3—for its all-new GT. The design featured a custom carbon fiber monocoque chassis with front and rear aluminum subframes. Power came not from a V-8 like the GT’s competitors ran, but Ford’s versatile 3.5-liter V-6 Ecoboost engine, augmented with twin-turbochargers and channeled through a seven-speed Getrag dual-clutch gearbox. A hydraulically adjustable pushrod suspension kept primary components inboard to optimize aerodynamics of the carbon fiber bodywork.

Weighing less than 3,200 pounds, performance was predictably awe-inspiring and enough to fulfill Ford’s goal of winning the LM GTE-Pro class at the 2016 24 Hours of Le Mans. Demand for the production version of the GT was so strong that Ford implemented an application process for the privilege of buying one, handpicking loyal Ford enthusiasts and mandating that they keep their cars for an extended period. Applications reportedly outnumbered available allotments by nearly tenfold at the model’s official launch.

Ford planned only 1,350 examples for production through the 2022 model year. Although the actual number produced is unconfirmed, the second-generation GT remains far rarer than the 2005–2006 model, of which nearly 4,000 examples were built.

Driven by a passion for iconic footwear, the original owner of this unique Ford GT commissioned one-off livery inspired by the Nike Air Jordan 1 sneaker. Correspondence from Multimatic details the in-depth design process, which involved various proposals featuring different interpretations of color blocks and graphics evoking the classic Nike shoe. The exterior features a special hue, dubbed Nadal Red, as the primary color, with Frozen White on the doors and hood. Gloss Black lower bodywork and wheels visually ground the presentation, while red brake calipers provide contrast while also coordinating with the main body color.

The color scheme continues inside with red-and-white-striped seats, red seat belts, and red paddle shifters. Altogether, the various elements combine to create a striking, singular specification for the Le Mans-winning supercar.

Acquired by the consignor from the renowned collection of its commissioning owner, this GT traveled just 166 miles at cataloguing time.

For collectors who value uniqueness, this well-maintained Ford GT presents an exceptional opportunity. It is accompanied by a window sticker, build correspondence with photos, and a Ford Design Kit.