The Ford GT40 was an American high-performance endurance racing car. The Mk I, Mk II, and Mk III variants were designed and built in the UK based upon the Lola Mk6 during the early 1960s. The Mk IV model was designed and built in the United States.

The range was powered by a series of American-built Ford V8 engines modified for racing. Initially the GT40 wasn’t a racing success until the project was moved to the US where further development vastly improved the car’s performance and reliability.

The GT40 effort was launched by Ford Motor Company to win long-distance sports car races against Ferrari, which won every 24 Hours of Le Mans race from 1960 to 1965.

The GT40 broke Ferrari’s streak in 1966 and went on to win the next three annual races. The Mk II’s victory was the first win for an American manufacturer in a major European race since Jimmy Murphy‘s triumph with Duesenberg at the 1921 French Grand Prix.

In 1967, the Mk IV became the only car designed and built entirely in the United States to achieve the overall win at Le Mans.^[7]

The Mk 1, the oldest of the cars, won in 1968 and 1969, the second chassis to win Le Mans more than once. (This Ford/Shelby chassis #P-1075 was believed to have been the first until the Ferrari 275P chassis 0816 was revealed to have won the 1964 race after winning the 1963 race in 250P configuration and with a 0814 chassis plate^[8]).

Using an American Ford V8 engine, originally of 4.7-liter displacement capacity (289 cubic inches), it was later enlarged to the 4.9-liter engine (302 cubic inches), with custom alloy Gurney–Weslake cylinder heads.

Early cars were simply named “Ford GT” (for Grand Touring), the name of Ford’s project to prepare the cars for the international endurance racing circuit. The “40” represented its height of 40 inches (1.02 m), measured at the windshield, the minimum allowed.

The first 12 “prototype” vehicles carried serial numbers GT-101 to GT-112. The “production” began and the subsequent cars: the MkI, MkII, MkIII, and MkIV were numbered GT40P/1000 through GT40P/1145, and thus officially “GT40s”. The Mk IVs were numbered J1-J12.

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The GT40 program was born out of Ford’s ambition to win in France after a failed acquisition of Ferrari. The MkII version of the GT40 represented the evolution of this vision, with enhanced performance and reliability tailored for the grueling demands of endurance racing.

Key Features of the Ford GT40 MkII

• Engine: 7.0L V8 producing approximately 485 horsepower, delivering blistering speed and power
• Chassis: Lightweight yet durable steel monocoque, ensuring both strength and agility
• Transmission: 4-speed manual gearbox, designed to handle the torque of the massive V8 engine
• Aerodynamics: Refined bodywork with improved airflow for stability on the high-speed Mulsanne Straight

The French stage 1966: Ford’s Finest Hour

The 1966 French Race marked a turning point in motorsport history, as the GT40 MkII dethroned Ferrari, which had dominated the event throughout the early 1960s. Ford’s strategic teamwork and engineering excellence culminated in a sweeping victory that made headlines worldwide.

Race Highlights:

• Teamwork and Strategy: Ford fielded multiple entries, with the cars meticulously prepared and managed by Shelby American and Holman-Moody.
• Reliability Under Pressure: The GT40 MkII demonstrated exceptional durability, with its robust engine and chassis enduring the grueling 24-hour race.
• Iconic Finish: Ford orchestrated a photo finish, with the GT40s crossing the line together to emphasize the dominance of the American marque.

Legacy of the Ford GT40 MkII

The 1966 victory was more than a racing achievement—it was a statement of American engineering prowess. The GT40 MkII became an enduring symbol of Ford’s determination and innovation.

Enduring Impact:

• A New Era of Racing: The success of the GT40 MkII shifted the balance of power in endurance racing, ending Ferrari’s reign and setting new benchmarks.
• Hollywood Fame: The dramatic story of the 1966 race was immortalized in the film “Ford v Ferrari”, further cementing the GT40’s legendary status.
• Collector’s Dream: The GT40 MkII is one of the most sought-after race cars, revered for its role in one of motorsport’s most iconic moments.

A Victory for the Ages

The Ford GT40 MkII’s triumph at the French race 1966 remains a landmark in motorsport history. Its blend of power, reliability, and strategic execution proved unbeatable, and its victory symbolized a shift in the racing landscape.

For enthusiasts and historians alike, the GT40 MkII is not just a car; it’s a testament to what can be achieved with vision, innovation, and determination. This race was more than a competition—it was the birth of an enduring legend.

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Ford GT40 MK2 on YouTube

L’article Ford GT40 mk2 – Ken Miles est apparu en premier sur Exclusive Edition.

The GT40 program was born out of Ford’s ambition to win at Le Mans after a failed acquisition of Ferrari. The MkII version of the GT40 represented the evolution of this vision, with enhanced performance and reliability tailored for the grueling demands of endurance racing.

Key Features of the Ford GT40 MkII

• Engine: 7.0L V8 producing approximately 485 horsepower, delivering blistering speed and power
• Chassis: Lightweight yet durable steel monocoque, ensuring both strength and agility
• Transmission: 4-speed manual gearbox, designed to handle the torque of the massive V8 engine
• Aerodynamics: Refined bodywork with improved airflow for stability on the high-speed Mulsanne Straight

The 24 Hours of Le Mans 1966: Ford’s Finest Hour

The 1966 Le Mans marked a turning point in motorsport history, as the GT40 MkII dethroned Ferrari, which had dominated the event throughout the early 1960s. Ford’s strategic teamwork and engineering excellence culminated in a sweeping victory that made headlines worldwide.

Race Highlights:

• Teamwork and Strategy: Ford fielded multiple entries, with the cars meticulously prepared and managed by Shelby American and Holman-Moody.
• Reliability Under Pressure: The GT40 MkII demonstrated exceptional durability, with its robust engine and chassis enduring the grueling 24-hour race.
• Iconic Finish: Ford orchestrated a photo finish, with the GT40s crossing the line together to emphasize the dominance of the American marque.

Legacy of the Ford GT40 MkII

The 1966 Le Mans victory was more than a racing achievement—it was a statement of American engineering prowess. The GT40 MkII became an enduring symbol of Ford’s determination and innovation.

Enduring Impact:

• A New Era of Racing: The success of the GT40 MkII shifted the balance of power in endurance racing, ending Ferrari’s reign and setting new benchmarks.
• Hollywood Fame: The dramatic story of the 1966 race was immortalized in the film “Ford v Ferrari”, further cementing the GT40’s legendary status.
• Collector’s Dream: The GT40 MkII is one of the most sought-after race cars, revered for its role in one of motorsport’s most iconic moments.

A Victory for the Ages

The Ford GT40 MkII’s triumph at the 24 Hours of Le Mans 1966 remains a landmark in motorsport history. Its blend of power, reliability, and strategic execution proved unbeatable, and its victory symbolized a shift in the racing landscape.

For enthusiasts and historians alike, the gt40 MkII is not just a car; it’s a testament to what can be achieved with vision, innovation, and determination. This race was more than a competition—it was the birth of an enduring legend.

Discover our complete Ford collection posters

Ford GT40 MK2 on YouTube

L’article Ford GT40 mk2 – Mount Rushmore Road trip est apparu en premier sur Exclusive Edition.