What is the difference between the Ford GT and the GT40?
The Ford GT and the GT40 are two iconic vehicles that have captured the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide. While they share a name and a legacy rooted in racing history, these two cars are distinct in their design, purpose, and era. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between the Ford GT and the GT40, shedding light on what makes each of these vehicles unique.
1. Historical Context and Purpose
The GT40 was born out of Ford’s ambition to dominate endurance racing in the 1960s, particularly at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It was designed to challenge Ferrari’s dominance and succeeded spectacularly, winning Le Mans four consecutive times from 1966 to 1969. The GT40 was a purebred race car, built with one goal in mind: to win on the track.
In contrast, the Ford GT was introduced in 2005 as a modern homage to the GT40. While it retained the spirit of its predecessor, the Ford GT was designed as a road-legal supercar, blending high performance with modern technology and comfort. A second-generation Ford GT was later released in 2017, further pushing the boundaries of engineering and aerodynamics.
2. Design and Dimensions
One of the most noticeable differences between the GT40 and the Ford GT is their size. The GT40 earned its name from its height—standing at just 40 inches tall. This low profile was essential for aerodynamics and performance on the racetrack.
The Ford GT, while inspired by the GT40’s design, is larger and taller to accommodate modern safety regulations and provide more comfort for drivers. Its design incorporates advanced aerodynamics, including active elements like adjustable wings and diffusers, which were not present in the original GT40.
3. Engine and Performance
The GT40 was powered by a range of V8 engines during its racing career, with the most famous being the 7.0-liter (427 cubic inch) V8 that delivered incredible power for its time. This engine, combined with the car’s lightweight construction, made it a formidable competitor on the track.
The Ford GT, on the other hand, features a modern powertrain. The first-generation Ford GT (2005-2006) was equipped with a 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine, producing 550 horsepower. The second-generation Ford GT (2017-present) took a different approach, utilizing a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 EcoBoost engine that produces over 600 horsepower. This shift to a smaller, more efficient engine reflects advancements in engineering and a focus on sustainability.
4. Production Numbers and Exclusivity
The GT40 was produced in very limited numbers, with only around 105 units built, most of which were dedicated to racing. This rarity makes the GT40 a highly sought-after collector’s item today.
The Ford GT, while still exclusive, was produced in larger numbers. The first-generation Ford GT saw approximately 4,038 units built, while the second-generation model has a planned production run of around 1,350 units. Despite this, both generations of the Ford GT remain highly desirable among enthusiasts.
5. Legacy and Cultural Impact
The GT40’s legacy is firmly rooted in motorsport history, symbolizing Ford’s triumph over Ferrari and its dominance at Le Mans. It is celebrated as one of the greatest race cars of all time.
The Ford GT, while paying homage to the GT40, has carved out its own legacy as a modern supercar that combines cutting-edge technology with a nod to its racing heritage. It has also gained cultural significance, appearing in movies, video games, and car shows, further cementing its place in automotive history.
Conclusion
In summary, the Ford GT and the GT40 are two extraordinary vehicles that represent different eras and purposes. The GT40 is a legendary race car that defined Ford’s dominance in endurance racing, while the Ford GT is a modern supercar that blends performance, technology, and heritage. Both cars are masterpieces in their own right, and their differences only add to their allure and significance in the automotive world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Ford GT40 so special?
All chassis versions were powered by a series of American-built Ford V8 OHV engines modified for racing. In the 1966 Le Mans, the GT40 Mk II car broke Ferrari's winning streak, making Ford the first American manufacturer to win a major European race since Jimmy Murphy's Duesenberg in the 1921 French Grand Prix.
Why was the GT40 banned?
According to the renowned World Registry of Cobras and GT40s, when the 1968 Le Mans rules was announced with the news of engine size regulations capped at 5-Liters, it essentially outlawed Ford's GT40 and Ford would turn the J-cars over to Kar Kraft of Brighton, Michigan, who would then assemble the last two cars, J-9 ...
Is the Ford GT and GT40 the same?
Although the cars are visually related, structurally, there is no similarity between the modern GT and the 1960s GT40 that inspired it. After six weeks from the unveiling of the GT40 concept, Ford announced a limited production run of the car.
What makes the Ford GT40 so special?
The Ford GT40 is a high-performance mid-engined racing car originally designed and built for and by the Ford Motor Company to compete in 1960s European endurance racing. Its specific impetus was to best Scuderia Ferrari, which had won the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans race for six years running from 1960 to 1965.
Did Henry Ford cry in GT40?
5. Carroll Shelby never took Henry Ford II for a joyride in a GT40. As much as we wish this was true, it just never happened. In the film, Carrol Shelby takes Henry Ford II for a joyride in his creation, which results in the industry giant bursting into a mixture of sobbing and laughter.
What does GT stand for?
Grand tourerGrand tourer / Full name
The concept of the GT car emerged from Europe in the mid-1900s, with the goal of being both a high-performance automobile and a long-distance driver. So GT — meaning grand tourer or gran tourer — makes sense.
What does gto stand for?
This ritual is summarized by the three most famous letters ever worn by an automobile: "GTO" stands for "Gran Turismo Omologato," which, loosely translated from the Italian, means homologated (recognized for competition) grand-touring car. Enzo could have christened his car "the ultimate," and we wouldn't quibble.
Is the GT40 a Shelby?
And win they did, Ford and Shelby combined for a 1-2-3 sweep of the 1966 race and the over all "W" for the four straight years (1966-1969). In honor of that historic win, Shelby American will build a limited run of (20) 50th Anniversary Shelby GT40 MKII cars to honor this historic racing platform.
Why is the Ford GT not called GT40?
Management instructed the designer that it needed to look like the original GT40, and Ford continued to call its new project the GT40 for some time after its announcement. But suddenly, Ford was forced to go with GT instead.
What does GT stand for in a Ford GT40?
Grand Touring
The high-performance Ford GT40 is the dream child of Ford Motors, conceived in America and birthed in England. The GT stands for Grand Touring, and the 40 refers to its overall height in inches. It was produced from 1964-1969, and has since become an American racing icon.
