How fast was the Ford GT in 1966?
The Ford GT, a legendary sports car, made its mark in automotive history during the mid-1960s, particularly in 1966. This article delves into the remarkable speed and performance of the Ford GT, highlighting its significance in the world of motorsport and its legacy that continues to inspire car enthusiasts today.
Performance Specifications
The Ford GT, specifically the GT40 model, was designed for endurance racing and was powered by a robust V8 engine. Here are some key performance specifications:
- Engine: 7.0-liter V8 engine
- Horsepower: Approximately 485 hp
- Top Speed: Around 200 mph (322 km/h)
- Acceleration: 0 to 60 mph in about 4 seconds
Racing Achievements
In 1966, the Ford GT achieved monumental success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where it famously secured the top three positions. This victory was not just a testament to its speed but also to its engineering excellence and reliability under extreme racing conditions.
Legacy and Impact
The Ford GT's performance in 1966 solidified its status as an icon in the automotive world. Its combination of speed, design, and racing pedigree has influenced countless sports cars that followed. The GT's legacy continues to resonate, inspiring modern iterations that pay homage to its storied past.
In conclusion, the Ford GT of 1966 was not only fast but also a symbol of innovation and competition in the automotive industry. Its achievements on the racetrack and its enduring legacy make it a beloved classic among car enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a 1966 Ford GT worth?
How much is a 1966 Ford GT40 Mk I worth? The value of a 1966 Ford GT40 Mk I can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $5,050,000 for a 1966 Ford GT40 Mk I in good condition with average spec.
How fast did the Ford GT40 go at Le Mans?
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 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.
What is the top speed of the 1966 Ford GT40?
The car can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.0 seconds and has a top speed of 200 mph. The GT40 has a lightweight construction, featuring a monocoque chassis made of aluminum and a body made of fiberglass. The total weight of the car is just 2,205 lbs, which enables it to handle brilliantly on the track.
How many gears did the 1966 GT40 have?
four speed
Interestingly, the Mark IIs only used four speed manual transmissions, as the bigger engine put out so much torque that a five-speed gear box was considered unnecessary. The photo finish of three GT Mark IIs at the 1966 Le Mans race.
How fast did the original GT40 go?
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.
How fast were race cars in 1966?
1966 Indianapolis 500
| Indianapolis Motor Speedway | |
|---|---|
| Indianapolis 500 | |
| Average speed | 144.317 mph (232.256 km/h) |
| Pole position | Mario Andretti |
| Pole speed | 165.899 mph (266.989 km/h) |
What was the fastest lap time at Le Mans 1966?
3 minutes, 30.6 seconds
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.
How fast was Ken Miles going when he died?
200 miles per hour
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.
Did Ken Miles win Le Mans in 1966?
Miles won the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring in 1966, and he placed second at Le Mans. Miles died in a crash while testing Ford's J-Car later that year. British-born Ken Miles was a gifted race car engineer and driver.
