What is the only American built car to win Le Mans?
The Ford GT40 is the only American-built car to have won the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race. This iconic sports car, developed in the 1960s, achieved a remarkable feat by dominating the world's most challenging automotive competition and cementing its place in motorsport history.
The Ford GT40's Triumph at Le Mans
The Ford GT40's victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1966 was a watershed moment for American motorsports. After years of dominance by European manufacturers, the Ford GT40 emerged as the first American-built car to claim the coveted Le Mans title. This triumph was the result of a determined effort by Ford to challenge the established European powerhouses, such as Ferrari, Porsche, and Jaguar, on the world stage.
The Backstory: Ford's Rivalry with Ferrari
The Ford GT40's success at Le Mans was fueled by a fierce rivalry between Ford and Ferrari. In the early 1960s, Ford had attempted to acquire Ferrari, but the deal fell through, leading to a bitter feud between the two automakers. Determined to prove its superiority, Ford poured significant resources into the development of the GT40, with the sole purpose of defeating Ferrari at Le Mans.
The GT40's Technical Prowess
The Ford GT40 was a technological marvel of its time. Powered by a powerful V8 engine and featuring a sleek, aerodynamic design, the car was engineered to excel in the demanding conditions of the Le Mans circuit. Its combination of speed, reliability, and handling made it a formidable competitor against the European sports cars that had dominated the race for years.
The Legendary Drivers
The Ford GT40's success at Le Mans was not just a result of its technical prowess, but also the skill and determination of its drivers. Legendary names like Bruce McLaren, Ken Miles, and Dan Gurney piloted the GT40 to victory, showcasing their exceptional driving abilities and contributing to the car's legendary status.
The Legacy of the Ford GT40
The Ford GT40's triumph at Le Mans in 1966 marked a significant milestone in American motorsport history. It not only proved the capabilities of American engineering but also inspired a new generation of sports car enthusiasts and racers. The GT40's legacy continues to be celebrated today, with the car's design and performance serving as a benchmark for modern sports car development.
Why did Carroll Shelby quit racing?
In 1954, he began racing for the Aston Martin team, eventually claiming victory at Le Mans for the British carmaker with co-driver Roy Salvadori. Heart troubles eventually forced Shelby to quit competitive racing. He decided that rather than driving fast cars, he would build them.
Has an American ever won the Le Mans?
Hill lined up at the start of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in a Ferrari eight times between 1955 and 1962. He competed in the French endurance classic 14 times in all but only saw the chequered flag three times... but with three wins! In 1958, he became the first American to win at Le Mans.
How much is the Le Mans GT40 worth?
The reported record sale price for a Ford GT40 was achieved in 2011 when a 1968 example – which featured in Steve McQueen's 1971 film Le Mans – sold for $US11 million at auction, equivalent to $US14. 75 million/$AU23. 36 million today.
Is Carroll Shelby the only American to win the Le Mans?
In 1959, he became only the second American-born driver to win the 24-hour race at Le Mans, France. (Phil Hill was the first, winning in 1958.) Shelby's racing career ended in 1960.
Did Ken Miles win Le Mans for Ford?
British-born Ken Miles was a gifted race car engineer and driver. Through his work for Carroll Shelby, Miles got involved in Ford's GT racing program. 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.
How much is a Ford GT40 worth today?
A: The average price of a Ford GT40 is $5,602,000.
Did Ken Miles win any Le Mans?
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. Through his work for Carroll Shelby, Miles got involved in Ford's GT racing program.
What is the only American car to win Le Mans?
Ford GT40
24 Hours Centenary – The American benchmark Ford GT40. 24 HOURS CENTENARY – MAKES, MARQUES and IMPRINTS ⎮ Ford is currently the only American manufacturer to reach the top step on the overall podium, winning four times from 1966 to 1969 with various versions of the same car.
Is the GT40 still the only American car to win Le Mans?
The car, which was to become the Ford GT40, was based on Broadley's Lola GT design. this makes the MKIV win the only all-American win at Le Mans with an American car and driven by American drivers.
Who actually won in Ford vs Ferrari?
Three years after being rejected by Ferrari, Ford Motor Company had developed one of the best endurance cars in the world and won on the field of contest. With the LeMans victory, Ford Motor Company won the Manufacturer Championship because of their combined scores.
