Roush unleashes the ultimate GT

It seems the ultimate way to send off a modern-day classic. Vaunted blue oval tuning specialist Roush has developed an extreme version of the mid-engined GT supercar with extra oomph and an even more menacing stance.

The Roush 600 RE is actually the handiwork of Roush Europe, a subsidiary of the US-based company of Jack Roush, who's become synonymous over the years for go-faster Fords.

You'd be forgiven for thinking that the Ford GT isn't exactly crying out for a performance upgrade, given that the standard car's supercharged 5.4-litre V8 already pumps out a robust 410kW and 678Nm.

However, where there's a will (and a fat enough chequebook), there's a way and Roush's boffins have crafted just 10 go-faster examples -- in sinister all-black duco -- for a fortunate few well-heeled enthusiasts.

The official press release is selective in the information it provides. Although it boasts of power and torque increases, the exact figures haven't been quoted. Be that as it may, we do know that the engine scores an "upgraded supercharger pulley system", a "Tubi" exhaust and a transmission oil breather system.

In keeping with the all-black theme, the 600RE scores dark tinted glass, black powder-coated wheels and colour-keyed hoses.

Of course, no limited-edition model is complete without unique vehicle numbering and identity plaques, and the 600RE doesn't disappoint in this respect. There's also an optional four-point harness pack for those who fancy the odd track day.

The fettled GT was designed and assembled by the European arm of Roush, based in Brentwood, Essex, which is the only official Ford GT service centre in the UK.

In case you're wondering about Roush's credentials for the job of fiddling with a contemporary classic, rest assured the firm has the runs on the board.

Company founder Jack Roush has been developing go-faster Fords since 1982, resulting in a highly successful run in the US-based Trans-Am and IMSA race series in the 1980s and early '90s.

Roush Racing currently fields five cars in the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series and three trucks in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.

Roush Performance also sells modified Ford F-150s, Mustangs, and Focuses in the good ol' US of A. These cars feature signature decals and performance-oriented modifications.

To comment on this article click here