Does your concept of car modification revolve around rowdy teenagers with Vauxhall Novas encased in more plastic than your average supermodel? Well the teenage tearaway concept of modification is one possible route. However, there are options for the more discerning of sportscar enthusiasts, as highlighted by Ford's recent GTX1 project displayed at the 2005 SEMA Show.

For many performance car drivers the chance to make minor handling or aesthetic modifications is part of the appeal, although when the car has the cult status and parentage of the much renowned Ford GT40, a rear spoiler the size of Shropshire is out of the question.

Although only available to the UK market in tiny numbers, the Ford GT has taken the USA by storm, with the GTX1 project offering potential customers the chance the tastefully customise their 'ride' by converting it to the roadster format. Featuring an intricate roofing system of four individual panels, the driver can choose between coupe, convertible or T-bar configurations. The GTX1 project makes few mechanical or performance amendments to the standard car, and is equipped with the 'standard' monstrous 5.4-litre supercharged engine.

Finished in striking silver and yellow paintwork, the Ford GTX1 show car was the brainchild of designer Kip Ewing, and although the modifications are carried out by an external company, the product is fully endorsed by Ford. Although unlikely to reach UK shores, the Ford GTX1 project is interesting in that the modifications have been designed by an engineer independently of Ford's design department - and I think you'll agree, the result is not bad at all!

Andrew Frampton - 9 Nov 2005