FPV GT-E track test

When Ford Performance Vehicles launched its new range of supercharged 5.0-litre V8 muscle cars in late 2010, we had a good chance to test the models on the open road. As we reported, even the entry-level FPV GS can move mountains, the new forced induction V8 able to shift the car's considerable mass with astounding ease.

One of the recurring questions we've been asked, however, is how the new high performance Falcon-based models perform when traffic, speed limits, and other considerations are thrown out the window?

Soon we're going to find out, as we put the most expensive model in the range, the $82,540 GT-E, through its paces at Phillip Island - where those big Brembo brake calipers are going to be put to good use.

Generally speaking there's only a few ways you can punt a car around the world-famous Phillip Island race track, and that's by being a V8 Supercar driver with a full race team or having access to a large car club. Until now, that is.

We're getting the 335kW/570Nm FPV GT-E on the track with a little help from Drive Events Pty Ltd, an Aussie company whose goal is to provide a safe yet memorable track-day experience for car owners.

Whether you drive a Ferrari F430, a classic Mustang or even a Toyota Corolla, Drive Events can get you on the track, provided you have a registered and roadworthy car, a driver's licence and a helmet. Other than that, you just book your place on one of the available days, and you'll get a full 90 minutes of track time, split into six sessions to avoid cooking your car's brakes and drivetrain.

Cars and drivers are graded and split up into various groups, so that for instance a twin-turbo Nissan GT-R driven by a tarmac rally veteran isn't out on track at the same moment as MINI Cooper for example.

So that's the thick of it. And who knows, we might even see you there - just look out for a brand-spanking FPV GT-E firing down Gardner Straight at full tilt.

We'll have a full report on how the FPV acquits itself on the track, in terms of cornering, braking and acceleration, and run down of how the track day pans out.

Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.