Recently, automotive enthusiasts were treated to an insightful conversation between Dave Pericak and Jay Leno at the iconic Jay Leno’s Garage. Pericak, a key figure in Ford’s performance division, delved into the fascinating stories behind some of Ford’s most legendary vehicles, from the Ford GT to the Shelby GT350.
The discussion kicked off with Jay Leno’s own 2005 Ford GT, a supercar that still proudly bears the Ford badge. Pericak revealed how changes in crash standards influenced the production of this iconic vehicle, while Leno reminisced about its exceptional driving experience compared to the original GT40.
Transitioning to the Shelby GT350R, Leno and Pericak explored the nuances of the car, particularly its unique flat-plane-crank V8 engine. Despite the engineering challenges, Pericak highlighted the car’s vibrancy and performance, underscoring the meticulous design process that went into creating such a remarkable machine.
The conversation then shifted to the 2017 Ford GT, a vehicle lauded by Leno as a road-legal race car. Pericak recounted the immense pressure Ford faced in delivering a winning performance at Le Mans, a promise they had made to Ford leadership years before the car was even conceptualized.
Reflecting on Ford’s historic victory at Le Mans in 2016, Pericak shared a poignant moment standing with Edsel Ford II, marking the 50th anniversary of Ford’s triumph at the prestigious race. Pericak’s contributions to Ford’s legacy, including his role in revitalizing the Mustang and securing victory at Le Mans, have solidified his place in automotive history.
Having recently been inducted into the Mustang Owner’s Museum Hall of Fame, Pericak continues to shape Ford’s future, now leading the company’s electric truck division. His passion for performance vehicles and dedication to pushing boundaries have left an indelible mark on Ford’s iconic brands, ensuring a legacy of innovation and excellence.
As automotive enthusiasts eagerly await the next chapter in Ford’s performance evolution, the conversation between Dave Pericak and Jay Leno serves as a reminder of the dedication and ingenuity behind the creation of some of the most iconic vehicles in automotive history.
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