2005 Ford GT PB1-1 Prototype #Video

PB1-1 — The First Ford GT Production Validation Prototype

This isn’t simply an early Ford GT. PB1-1 is the very first vehicle built for Ford’s PB1 (Production-Representative Build Phase 1) program, making it one of the most historically significant Ford Performance vehicles ever produced.

Built to validate Ford’s production processes and performance targets before customer deliveries began, PB1-1 played a critical role in bringing the modern Ford GT to life. It was also one of only two Ford GTs selected for Ford’s European high-speed validation program.

During testing at Italy’s legendary Nardò Ring, PB1-1 achieved a certified 209.1 MPH, helping validate Ford’s performance claims before the first production GT ever reached customers.

Underneath the iconic yellow exterior is Ford’s legendary 5.4-liter supercharged DOHC V8, paired with a Ricardo 6-speed manual transaxle. This prototype was equipped with factory development cooling air foils, SVT track alignment, a full roll cage, dual Sparco 5-point harnesses, and served as the Development Hoosier R6 Tire Program vehicle.

Inside, the car retains its production-style GT cockpit along with the specialized equipment used during Ford's high-speed development program. The result is a remarkably preserved snapshot of the engineering process behind one of America's greatest modern supercars.

Perhaps most remarkable of all, PB1-1 survived Ford's development program. Following Ford's invitation-only sale of select development vehicles, it was acquired directly from Ford Motor Company by a longtime Ford enthusiast and carefully preserved along with an extraordinary historical archive.

The documentation accompanying PB1-1 includes the original Ford SVT Equipment Sale Agreement, engineering documentation, Target 200 test media, Nardò testing documents, historical photographs, display boards, CDs, posters, event materials, and correspondence documenting the car's role in the rebirth of the Ford GT.

PB1-1 was also featured during the European Ford GT press launch and documented as a BBC Top Gear Magazine test vehicle in July 2004.

More than a supercar, PB1-1 is a piece of Ford Performance engineering history—a surviving prototype that helped prove the Ford GT was ready for production.

209.1 MPH. One of two European validation cars. The first PB1 vehicle. One unforgettable Ford GT.
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