Ford has long been an icon in the automotive world, with stunning designs that have wowed us since the Model T debuted in 1908. Through the years, they’ve produced some pretty spiffy designs, and we would consider these 13 models to be their most gorgeous work. We looked at things like looks, performance and longevity to curate our list.
From classic American muscle to sleek European-inspired designs, Ford has consistently delivered vehicles that not only perform admirably but also turn heads wherever they go.
1967 Ford Mustang Fastback
The 1967 Ford Mustang Fastback is an iconic symbol of American muscle cars, boasting a powerful presence on the road with its long hood and aggressive stance. Equipped with various engine options, including the legendary 390 cubic inch V8, this Mustang offered thrilling performance matched with timeless design.
Its fastback roofline and signature tri-bar taillights became synonymous with the Mustang brand, capturing the essence of 1960s automotive styling. Fun fact: The 1967 Mustang Fastback gained pop culture fame as the car driven by Steve McQueen in the classic movie “Bullitt,” featuring one of the most iconic car chase scenes in cinematic history.
1966 Ford GT40 Mk II
The 1966 Ford GT40 Mk II is a legendary racing car that achieved victory at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans. With its low-slung body, aerodynamic shape, and distinctive twin stripes, the GT40 Mk II was designed for speed and dominance on the track. Powered by a potent 7.0-liter V8 engine, this race car produced over 450 horsepower, propelling it to victory against its European rivals.
Fun fact: The GT40 Mk II secured a historic 1-2-3 finish at the 1966 Le Mans race, solidifying its place in motorsport history and cementing Ford’s reputation as a formidable competitor in endurance racing.
1955 Ford Thunderbird
The 1955 Ford Thunderbird is a classic American convertible known for its timeless design and iconic features. With its sleek chrome grille, porthole window, and distinctive round tail lights, the first-generation Thunderbird captured the essence of 1950s automotive styling.
Available with a potent V8 engine, this two-seater roadster offered a perfect blend of performance and luxury, appealing to drivers seeking a stylish and exhilarating driving experience.
Fun fact: The Thunderbird was originally introduced as a response to Chevrolet’s Corvette and quickly became a symbol of American automotive ingenuity, earning its place as an enduring classic in Ford’s lineup.
2006 Ford GT
The 2006 Ford GT is a modern reinterpretation of the classic GT40, paying homage to Ford’s historic victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Featuring a mid-engine layout, aerodynamic body, and iconic scissor doors, the GT exudes performance and style. Powered by a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 engine producing over 550 horsepower, this supercar offers blistering acceleration and track-ready dynamics. Its sleek lines and muscular stance harken back to the golden age of racing, making it a coveted collector’s item among automotive enthusiasts.
Fun fact: The 2006 Ford GT was produced in limited numbers, with only 4,038 units built during its two-year production run, adding to its exclusivity and allure.
1965 Ford Shelby Cobra 427
The 1965 Ford Shelby Cobra 427 is the epitome of American muscle, blending British styling with raw power and performance. Conceived by racing legend Carroll Shelby, this iconic roadster features a lightweight aluminum body, racing stripes, and a menacing grille, exuding aggression and attitude.
Powered by a potent 7.0-liter V8 engine producing upwards of 425 horsepower, the Cobra 427 delivers exhilarating acceleration and spine-tingling exhaust notes. Its timeless design and race-proven pedigree have cemented its status as one of the most sought-after classic cars in automotive history.
Fun fact: The Shelby Cobra 427 was originally intended for racing, but its formidable performance and striking looks made it a hit on the streets as well, earning it a place in the hearts of gearheads around the world.
1969 Ford Torino Talladega
The 1969 Ford Torino Talladega is a rare and highly collectible muscle car, built as a NASCAR homologation special to dominate the oval track. Named after the Talladega Superspeedway in Alabama, this limited-production model features a sleek fastback design, hidden headlights, and an aerodynamic nose cone, optimized for high-speed racing.
Equipped with a range of powerful V8 engines, including the legendary 428 Cobra Jet, the Torino Talladega delivers blistering performance and track-ready handling. Its distinctive styling and racing heritage make it a standout among classic muscle cars, sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Fun fact: The Torino Talladega was produced in limited numbers to meet NASCAR’s homologation requirements, with just 754 units built for the 1969 model year, adding to its rarity and exclusivity.
1908 Ford Model T
The 1908 Ford Model T is the car that started it all, revolutionizing the automotive industry with its simple yet innovative design. Featuring a high ground clearance, signature brass radiator, and rugged construction, the Model T was built to withstand the rough roads of early 20th-century America.
Powered by a reliable 2.9-liter inline-four engine producing 20 horsepower, the Model T offered practical transportation for the masses, becoming one of the most influential cars in history. Its affordability and mass production techniques pioneered by Henry Ford made car ownership accessible to millions, ushering in the era of the automobile.
2002 Ford Thunderbird
The 2002 Ford Thunderbird marks a modern revival of the classic T-Bird, capturing the essence of its iconic predecessor while incorporating contemporary design elements. With its retro styling cues, porthole windows, and optional removable hardtop, the Thunderbird pays homage to the golden age of American automotive design.
Powered by a 3.9-liter V8 engine producing 252 horsepower, this two-seater convertible offers a blend of performance and nostalgia, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a taste of vintage motoring with modern amenities.
Fun fact: The 2002 Thunderbird was produced in limited numbers as part of Ford’s 100th-anniversary celebrations, adding to its allure and collectibility among fans of the classic marque.
2018 Ford Mustang GT
The 2018 Ford Mustang GT represents the latest evolution of the iconic pony car, embodying the spirit of American muscle with its aggressive styling and formidable performance. Featuring a menacing front fascia, muscular body lines, and signature tri-bar tail lights, the sixth-generation Mustang GT commands attention on the road and track.
Equipped with a potent 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine producing 460 horsepower, this modern muscle car delivers exhilarating acceleration and track-ready dynamics, making it a favorite among enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
Fun fact: The 2018 Mustang GT introduced several performance enhancements, including a new 10-speed automatic transmission and optional MagneRide suspension, further solidifying its reputation as a top contender in the muscle car segment.
1970 Ford Capri Mk I
The 1970 Ford Capri Mk I is a stylish European coupe that combines sporty aesthetics with affordable performance, capturing the spirit of the swinging ’60s and early ’70s. Featuring sleek lines, pop-up headlights, and a distinctive sporty grille, the Capri Mk I exudes charm and charisma, drawing inspiration from its American counterparts while catering to European sensibilities.
Available with a range of engine options, including four-cylinder and V6 variants, this compact coupe offered agile handling and spirited performance, making it a popular choice among drivers seeking a balance of style and substance.
Fun fact: The Ford Capri Mk I was a commercial success, with over a million units sold worldwide during its production run, solidifying its status as an iconic and influential car in automotive history.
1973 Ford Falcon XB GT
The 1973 Ford Falcon XB GT is an iconic Australian muscle car immortalized by its bold appearance and association with the “Mad Max” film franchise. Featuring a menacing front air dam, distinctive rear spoiler, and aggressive styling cues, the Falcon XB GT commands attention on the road and screen alike.
Powered by a range of V8 engines, including the formidable 351 cubic inch Cleveland V8, this Aussie muscle car offered thrilling performance and exhilarating exhaust notes, making it a favorite among petrolheads and cinema buffs alike.
Fun fact: The Falcon XB GT gained international fame after appearing as the iconic Interceptor in the “Mad Max” film series, cementing its status as a cultural icon and beloved classic car.
1992 Ford Escort RS Cosworth
The 1992 Ford Escort RS Cosworth is a rally-inspired hot hatch that left a lasting impression with its aggressive styling and potent performance. Featuring a distinctive large rear wing, hood vents, and a rally-inspired body kit, the Escort RS Cosworth exudes a sense of purpose and athleticism.
Under the hood lies a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing around 227 horsepower, coupled with all-wheel drive for optimal traction and handling. With its blistering acceleration and agile dynamics, this iconic hot hatch carved out a niche for itself in the world of rally racing and enthusiast driving alike.
Fun fact: The Escort RS Cosworth’s distinctive “whale tail” rear wing was not just for show—it provided genuine aerodynamic benefits, helping to improve stability at high speeds and during aggressive cornering maneuvers.
1987 Ford Sierra RS500 Cosworth
The 1987 Ford Sierra RS500 Cosworth stands as a limited edition touring car that pushed the boundaries of performance and design. Built to homologate the Sierra for Group A touring car racing, the RS500 Cosworth boasted a boxy yet aerodynamic design, complete with wide fender flares, a prominent rear spoiler, and unique body graphics.
Beneath the surface lay a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine tuned by Cosworth to produce up to 224 horsepower, delivering exhilarating acceleration and track-worthy performance. With only 500 units produced for homologation purposes, the RS500 Cosworth remains a highly sought-after collector’s item among automotive enthusiasts and historians alike.
Fun fact: The RS500 Cosworth’s racing pedigree was further enhanced by its success on the track, where it claimed numerous victories in the fiercely competitive world of touring car racing, solidifying its reputation as a true performance icon.
