What makes a grand touring car has always been loosely defined. But in its purest form, it has generally meant a fast, comfortable coupe or roadster large enough to accommodate a driver and passenger along with sufficient luggage room for a weekend jaunt. While early GT cars were meant to be an enjoyable drive, the emphasis was on refined high-speed cruising rather than all-out racetrack performance. To this day, automakers and car reviewers will characterize as a “touring car” anything that looks the part — be it in styling or specifications — but isn’t designed for top engine performance.

The American carmakers that took the ball and ran with it, often deep into the weeds — some so-called GT cars were barely suited for touring of any kind. Ford was one of the first domestic automakers to adopt the GT designation with the first-generation Mustang in 1965. Offered only with a high-performance V-8, the GT car also got an upgraded suspension, special wheels, dual exhausts and distinctive side stripes.