Ford gt40 racing

The Ford GT40 is an icon of motorsport, winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the 1960s, born from the rivalry between Ford and Ferrari.

About this subject

The Ford GT40 was developed specifically to defeat Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, after Henry Ford II's failed attempt to buy the Italian marque. The project was led by Carroll Shelby and relied on British expertise from Lola Cars. The name GT40 comes from the vehicle's height, which measured only 40 inches (1.02 meters).

The car made history in 1966, winning the overall Le Mans title with the trio Bruce McLaren, Chris Amon, and Ken Miles. Over the following years, from 1966 to 1969, the GT40 won the race four consecutive times, a feat that solidified American technical superiority at the time. The 7.0-liter V8 engine produced about 485 horsepower, paired with a lightweight fiberglass and aluminum chassis.

Beyond the track, the GT40 became one of the most sought-after collector cars. Original examples fetch millions of dollars at auctions. The story inspired the 2019 film "Ford vs Ferrari," directed by James Mangold, which portrayed the rivalry and the car's development. The GT40's legacy directly influenced the design of the modern Ford GT, launched in 2005 and later in 2017.

A curiosity: chassis GT40 P/1075 won Le Mans in 1968 and 1969, making it one of the most valuable examples in the world. Today, the model is celebrated at classic car events and keeps alive the competitive spirit that marked the 1960s.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the Ford GT40 created?

The Ford GT40 was created to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans after Ford tried to buy Ferrari and was rejected. Henry Ford II ordered the construction of a car that would defeat Ferrari in the most famous endurance race.

How many times did the GT40 win Le Mans?

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

What engine did the Ford GT40 have?

The GT40 used a 7.0-liter (427 cubic inch) V8 engine that produced about 485 horsepower. Some smaller versions were also used, but the big engine is the most famous.