How fast did the original Ford GT go?
The Ford GT is an iconic American supercar that has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide. Known for its sleek design and incredible performance, the original Ford GT, introduced in the 1960s as the Ford GT40, was built with one primary goal: to dominate the 24 Hours of Le Mans. But just how fast could this legendary car go? Let’s dive into the details.
The Speed of the Original Ford GT
The original Ford GT40, which debuted in 1964, was designed to compete with Ferrari at Le Mans. Its name, GT40, came from its height—standing just 40 inches tall. This car was a marvel of engineering for its time, and its speed was one of its most impressive features.
The top speed of the original Ford GT40 varied slightly depending on the specific model and engine configuration. However, the most famous version, the GT40 Mk II, which won Le Mans in 1966, could reach a top speed of approximately 210 mph (338 km/h). This was an extraordinary achievement for a car in the 1960s and solidified its place in automotive history.
What Made the GT40 So Fast?
The Ford GT40’s incredible speed was the result of several key factors:
- Powerful Engine: The GT40 Mk II was equipped with a 7.0-liter V8 engine, producing around 485 horsepower, which was groundbreaking for its time.
- Aerodynamic Design: The low-slung body and aerodynamic shape minimized drag, allowing the car to achieve higher speeds on the straights.
- Lightweight Construction: The use of lightweight materials helped reduce the car’s overall weight, improving both speed and handling.
- Advanced Engineering: Ford worked with some of the best engineers and designers of the era to create a car that could outperform its competitors on the track.
The Legacy of the Ford GT40
The Ford GT40’s success at Le Mans, including its historic 1-2-3 finish in 1966, cemented its reputation as one of the greatest race cars of all time. Its top speed of 210 mph was not just a number—it was a testament to Ford’s determination to take on the best in the world and win.
Today, the Ford GT40 remains a symbol of American innovation and performance. Its legacy lives on in the modern Ford GT, which continues to push the boundaries of speed and technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Ford GT faster than a Corvette?
Of course, the Ford GT beats out the Corvette in many performance aspects on paper, but it does so at nearly 8 times the price. As a matter of fact, the GT barely loses out to the Corvette in the 0-60 sprint, and it has more power and less weight.
How fast was the Ford GT in 1966?
- Engine: 7.0-liter V8 - Power: 485 horsepower - Transmission: 4-speed manual - Top speed: 200 mph - 0-60 mph acceleration: 4.2 seconds - Wheelbase: 95.0 inches - Length: 163.0 inches - Width: 70.0 inches - Height: 40.0 inches - Weight: 2,450 lbs - Fuel capacity: 31 gallons - Brakes: 4-wheel disc - Suspension: ...
How much horsepower does a 1966 Ford GT40 427 have?
The cars arrived in basic form and Shelby's men added the 485-hp 427 engines and T44 4-speed transmissions especially designed and assembled by Kar Kraft; they also installed the interior and exterior trim, front body work (constantly being modified to reduce front lift), and Halibrand race wheels.
What is the 1 mile record for a Ford GT?
310.8 mph
More Ford GT Runway Racing
Makes roughly 2700 hp, and currently holds the Guiness world record for fastest street-legal standing mile car at 283.2 mph. That record was set back in 2012, however, and since then the car's gone 292 mph and now, 310.8 mph.
How many original GT40s are left?
Of the five initial GT40 prototypes, only three remain today, and the other two are currently in the Shelby Heritage Center in Las Vegas. Race cars like this don't come around very often.
Did the Ford GT hit 300 mph?
M2K Motorsports made history when their Ford GT made a 300mph standing-mile pass. We go under the hood of this amazing machine and talk power with the team behind the record. Back in early 2014, Mark Heidaker and Kevin Kesterson were putting the finishing touches on their new shop, M2K Motorsports.
How fast was Ken Miles going when he died?
After almost a day of testing at Riverside International Raceway in the very hot Southern California desert, Miles approached the end of the track's one-mile (1.6 km) downhill back straight at top speed—over 200 miles per hour (320 km/h)—when the car suddenly flipped, crashed, and caught fire.
What did Carroll Shelby think of Ken Miles?
A singular character – "Ken was very unique for me. It seemed like he created a hell of a lot of controversy before he came to work for me at Shelby American. But I always got along with Ken just fine." A generous spirit – "Ken was a world-class and the best test driver I ever knew.
How fast could the original Ford GT go?
213 mph
Thanks to its streamlined aerodynamics, the car proved to be fastest in the field at Le Mans in 1967, achieving 213 mph on the 3.6-mile Mulsanne Straight.
What was the fastest lap at Le Mans 1966?
Hill's record was broken repeatedly with Gurney establishing the quickest lap of 3 minutes, 30.6 seconds. Miles was right behind at 3:31.7. The fastest Ferrari time was 3:33. There were disappointments during the race but things generally went well.
