What is the only American built car to win Le Mans?
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is one of the most prestigious and grueling endurance races in the world, testing the limits of engineering, speed, and durability. Over the years, many manufacturers have competed for glory, but only one American-built car has managed to claim victory at this legendary event. In this article, we’ll explore the history and significance of this remarkable achievement.
The Ford GT40: America’s Iconic Le Mans Winner
The Ford GT40 is the only American-built car to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and it didn’t just win once—it dominated the race for four consecutive years from 1966 to 1969. This incredible feat was the result of Ford Motor Company’s determination to beat Ferrari, which had been the reigning champion at Le Mans for years.
How the Ford GT40 Achieved Victory
The story of the Ford GT40’s success is one of innovation, rivalry, and perseverance. Here’s how it happened:
- The Rivalry with Ferrari: In the early 1960s, Ford attempted to buy Ferrari, but the deal fell through. This sparked a fierce rivalry, with Ford setting its sights on beating Ferrari at Le Mans.
- Development of the GT40: Ford partnered with British racing engineers to develop the GT40, a car designed specifically to excel at endurance racing.
- Breakthrough in 1966: After years of development and setbacks, the GT40 Mk II achieved a historic 1-2-3 finish at the 1966 Le Mans, marking the first victory for an American-built car.
- Continued Dominance: The GT40 went on to win Le Mans in 1967, 1968, and 1969, cementing its legacy as a racing legend.
The Ford GT40’s success at Le Mans was a turning point in motorsport history, showcasing American engineering prowess on the global stage. It remains a symbol of determination and innovation.
Legacy of the Ford GT40
The Ford GT40’s victories at Le Mans had a lasting impact on the automotive world. It inspired the creation of modern supercars and solidified Ford’s reputation as a leader in performance engineering. In 2016, Ford celebrated the 50th anniversary of its first Le Mans win by returning to the race with the modern Ford GT, which won its class, further honoring the legacy of the GT40.
To this day, the Ford GT40 is celebrated as a masterpiece of design and performance, and its story continues to inspire car enthusiasts and racers around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
How much is a Ford GT40 worth today?
A: The average price of a Ford GT40 is $5,602,000.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
