Ford GTX1 (2005)

The Ford GTX1, unveiled at the 2005 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, was a radical open-top reinterpretation of the Ford GT supercar. Inspired by the original Ford GT40 X-1 Roadster prototype from the 1960s, the GTX1 modernized the idea of a roofless GT for the 21st century — with a unique targa-style roof, enhanced performance, and bespoke craftsmanship. Though not built by Ford directly, the GTX1 was a factory-authorized custom conversion, making it one of the rarest and most striking evolutions of the Ford GT platform.

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History

The Ford GTX1 was the brainchild of Kip Ewing, a Ford engineer who worked on the development of the 2005 Ford GT. Drawing inspiration from the GT40 X-1 Roadster (a roofless racing variant that competed in endurance races during the 1960s), Ewing envisioned a modern-day homage — one that combined open-air motoring with the aggressive lines and performance of the GT.

Rather than creating a one-off, Ewing collaborated with Genaddi Design Group to turn the concept into a limited-production conversion program. At its debut at SEMA 2005, the GTX1 drew significant attention, and Ford gave its official endorsement to the project, allowing owners of 2005–2006 GTs to commission their cars for transformation.

Only a small number of GTX1s were ever built, making them rare collectibles today.

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Design Features

The most distinctive feature of the GTX1 is its four-piece removable roof system. Unlike the fixed-roof GT, the GTX1 featured a targa-style configuration with two removable roof panels over the driver and passenger seats, a center spine, and a removable rear section. This allowed for multiple configurations: fully open, targa, or semi-closed.

The body was reworked by Genaddi Design, who reinforced the chassis to maintain rigidity without the roof. Additional design changes included:

• New rear clamshell with integrated buttresses

• Redesigned rear diffuser

• Custom wheels and paint schemes

• Optional upgraded interior trim and bespoke materials

• Roll bars integrated behind the seats for added safety

Despite the added complexity, the car maintained the GT’s classic mid-engine proportions and aerodynamic presence.

Some versions of the GTX1 were also fitted with upgraded performance packages, pushing it further into supercar territory.

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Specs

Mechanically, the GTX1 retained the Ford GT’s base architecture but offered performance upgrades depending on the buyer's specifications.

Base specifications (standard Ford GT platform):

• Engine: 5.4-liter supercharged V8

• Power: 550 hp

• Torque: 678 Nm (500 lb-ft)

• Transmission: 6-speed manual

• Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive

• 0–100 km/h: ~3.6 seconds

• Top speed: ~330 km/h (205 mph)

Upgraded GTX1 variants offered:

• Power outputs up to 700+ hp (with twin-screw or twin-turbo conversions)

• Custom exhaust systems

• Suspension tuning and carbon-ceramic brake upgrades

• Enhanced cooling and aero modifications

The open roof design added a small weight penalty, but reinforcements and optional engine upgrades often offset any performance loss.

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Production Status

The Ford GTX1 was never mass-produced, nor was it sold directly by Ford. Instead, it was a Ford-approved, post-title conversion, allowing existing Ford GT owners to send their cars to Genaddi Design Group for transformation.

Original plans called for up to 600 conversions, but the actual number completed is believed to be fewer than 100, with some sources estimating as few as 30–40 cars. Each GTX1 was unique, often custom-painted and optioned to the owner’s specifications.

The rarity, factory blessing, and iconic design make the GTX1 one of the most collectible variants of the 2005–2006 Ford GT, often commanding a premium on the collector market.