Ford gt40 racing

The Ford GT40, a 1960s racing icon, won Le Mans four times in a row and defined the rivalry with Ferrari.

About this subject

The Ford GT40 is an iconic racing car born from the rivalry between Henry Ford II and Enzo Ferrari. In the 1960s, Ford attempted to buy Ferrari, but the deal fell through. In response, Ford decided to build a car that could defeat Ferrari in major endurance races, especially the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The project was developed in partnership with Lola Cars and Carroll Shelby, resulting in the GT40 Mk I in 1964. The name "GT40" comes from the car's height, 40 inches (1.02 m) measured at the windshield.

The GT40 made history in 1966, winning the overall first place at Le Mans with the Mk II driven by Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon. The victory was triumphant, with an all-Ford podium. In subsequent years, the car dominated the race, winning in 1967 (Mk IV), 1968, and 1969 (Mk I with Gulf engine). In total, four consecutive victories were an unprecedented achievement for an American manufacturer.

Technically, the GT40 was innovative. It used a mid-mounted American V8 engine with power ranging from 485 to 530 hp depending on the version. The chassis was aluminum and steel, with a fiberglass body. Only 31 racing examples were produced between 1964 and 1969, plus a few road versions like the Mk III. The car became a symbol of engineering and determination, influencing future Ford supercars such as the 2005 and 2016 Ford GT.

Interestingly, the original GT40 was never officially sold to the public on a large scale, but its legend has grown over the decades. Today, surviving examples fetch millions of dollars at auction. The GT40 story was immortalized in the film "Ford v Ferrari" (2019), which depicts the emotional journey to victory at Le Mans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the story behind the creation of the Ford GT40?

The Ford GT40 was created by Henry Ford II after a failed attempt to buy Ferrari. Ford aimed to defeat Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans to prove American automotive superiority.

How many original Ford GT40s were produced?

Only 31 racing examples of the Ford GT40 were built between 1964 and 1969, plus a few road versions like the Mk III. Each car was handcrafted.

Did the Ford GT40 win Le Mans every year?

Yes, the Ford GT40 won the 24 Hours of Le Mans four consecutive times: 1966, 1967, 1968, and 1969. It was the first American car to win the race and to achieve such a streak.