When a car first debuts in concept form there are numerous rules and regulations it doesn't have to follow. Certain styling elements that might take away from its overall appearance on the auto show floor (such as mirrors, parking lights and bumpers) are often eschewed in the name of visual impact. The original Ford GT40 concept car that rolled into Cobo Hall at the Detroit Auto Show in 2002 is a perfect example. Look at that concept's pictures and you'll see no rear bumper or parking lights (it did have exterior mirrors)...
The GT40's transformation from concept to production was remarkably successful considering the time and styling constraints involved. But Ford couldn't keep the name for legal reasons, and a rear bumper was added. However, unless you stand close behind the car and look straight down you might never see it. Some owners have gone through the trouble of removing the rear bumper (which also requires cutting the exhaust tips to keep them flush with the rear end), but I don't think it's justified.
Karl Brauer, Editor in Chief, Edmunds.com @ 6,078 miles
drmillerM3 says:
11:06 AM, 03/25/09
karl, are you the only one that ever drove this car? every post is yours.