2005 Ford GT in Naperville, Illinois

Ford first showed a GT40 concept in Detroit at the 2002 North American International Auto Show and planned to build the mid-engine supercar to celebrate the Blue Oval's Centennial. Public response to the resurrection of the record-setting winner of four consecutive Le Mans 24-Hour races in the 1960s was so overwhelming the company decided to build a limited run in production form.

The 2005 Ford GT is that car. Ford plans to make approximately 1500 annually for two or three years, depending on demand. Powered by a 550-horsepower V8, fitted with a six-speed manual transmission and capable of speeds in excess of three times the legal maximum in most states, the two-seat GT is an exotic car in everything but price, although its manufacturer's suggested retail price of $150,000 puts it in exclusive company.

It's worth every penny. Although bordering on what some might consider Spartan in amenities, it's surprisingly comfortable and accommodating for a high-performance sports car. And it earns that high performance label, delivering an exciting driving experience, exhilarating speed and superior handling. It will stretch most drivers' personal limits on winding mountain roads while feeling not entirely out of sorts in commuter mode.