A select few will get to drive a shiny new $400,000 Ford (F) GT anyway they darn please.
The automaker revealed on Tuesday that the 2017 version of the supercar, which began to ship to customers in December, comes equipped with five drive modes. A simple turn of a dial quickly changes aerodynamic, engine, stability control and shift characteristics of the GT, as well as its ride height.
Out of the five modes, which include "normal", "wet", "sport" and "track", it's the "V-Max" that will likely be the most popular among thrill-seeking GT owners.
Engineering-speak for "maximum velocity," says Ford, V-Max mode is designed to make the 647 horsepower Ford GT go as fast as possible. That ultimate end game: a top speed of 216 mph. Like the car's track mode, selecting V-Max requires the transmission be set in park. Ride height is the same as in track mode, but all aerodynamic elements are stowed to minimize drag. Stability controls remain active to help ensure the car moves forward in a straight line.
"Ultimately, V-Max mode is designed with a single objective -- for the GT to achieve its fastest possible straight-line speed," says Nick Terzes, Ford GT engineering supervisor.
Now that's rip your face off speed.
