Ford gt40 racing

The Ford GT40 is an icon of motorsport, famous for dominating the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the 1960s and breaking Ferrari's hegemony.

About this subject

The Ford GT40 was developed by the Ford Motor Company with a clear goal: to win the most prestigious endurance race in the world, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and end Ferrari's winning streak. The project began in 1963 under the leadership of engineer Roy Lunn, resulting in a low, aerodynamic car with a mid-mounted V8 engine. The name GT40 comes from the vehicle's height, which was only 40 inches (about 1.02 meters).

The car debuted in 1964 but faced reliability issues. Ford then partnered with Carroll Shelby and John Wyer's team to refine the model. In 1966, the GT40 Mk II achieved glory: a 1-2-3 finish at Le Mans, with car #2 driven by Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon crossing the line first. This victory was immortalized in the film "Ford v Ferrari" (2019). The GT40 continued its winning streak in 1967, 1968, and 1969, securing four consecutive victories.

Technically, the GT40 impressed with its innovative use of materials, such as a steel monocoque chassis and aluminum body panels. The Mk II's 7.0-liter V8 engine produced about 485 horsepower, enough to reach 340 km/h. Independent suspension on all four wheels and disc brakes ensured high-speed handling. Today, the GT40 is one of the most valuable collector cars, with examples selling for millions of dollars at auction. Its legacy lives on in the modern Ford GT, launched in 2005 and 2016, which revived the design and competitive spirit of the original.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Le Mans victories did the Ford GT40 achieve?

The Ford GT40 won the 24 Hours of Le Mans four consecutive times: in 1966, 1967, 1968, and 1969.

What engine did the Ford GT40 have?

The original GT40 used V8 engines of various displacements. The 1966 Mk II had a 7.0-liter (427 c.i.) engine, while later versions used 4.7 or 5.0 liters.

Was the Ford GT40 produced for road use?

Yes, Ford produced a road version called the GT40 Road Car, with about 30 units built, to meet homologation requirements.