What makes the Ford GT40 so special?
The Ford GT40 is a legendary sports car that has captured the hearts of automotive enthusiasts worldwide. This iconic vehicle's remarkable performance, stunning design, and rich racing heritage make it a true icon of the automotive world.
Unparalleled Racing Pedigree
The Ford GT40's claim to fame lies in its unparalleled racing pedigree. Developed in the 1960s to challenge the dominance of Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the GT40 went on to win the prestigious endurance race four times in a row, from 1966 to 1969. This remarkable feat cemented the GT40's status as one of the most successful race cars in history.
Innovative Design and Engineering
The Ford GT40's design and engineering were ahead of their time. Featuring a mid-engine layout, lightweight construction, and a powerful V8 engine, the GT40 was engineered to deliver exceptional performance and handling. The car's distinctive low-slung profile and sleek, aerodynamic body were not only visually stunning but also contributed to its impressive on-track capabilities.
Lasting Legacy and Cultural Impact
The Ford GT40's impact on the automotive world extends far beyond its racing success. The car has become a cultural icon, inspiring countless enthusiasts, designers, and engineers. Its timeless design and legendary status have made it a sought-after collector's item, with original examples fetching astronomical prices at auctions. The GT40's legacy continues to inspire new generations of sports car enthusiasts and automotive innovators.
In conclusion, the Ford GT40 is a true automotive masterpiece, a testament to the power of innovation, engineering, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Its unparalleled racing pedigree, innovative design, and lasting cultural impact have cemented its place as one of the most iconic and revered sports cars of all time.
Why is Ford GT40 legendary?
In the 1967 Le Mans, the GT40 Mk IV car became the only car developed and assembled entirely (both chassis and engine) in the United States to achieve the overall win at Le Mans.
What was special about the GT40?
It was one of the most advanced racing cars of the time and made a noted performance in Le Mans 1963, even though the car did not finish, due to low gearing and slow revving out on the Mulsanne Straight.
Are Ford GT40 rare?
And while the characters behind the GT40 are well known, such as Carroll Shelby and Ken Miles, less so are the cars themselves, whose official production spanned a mere six years, from 1964 through 1969, and amounted to only about 105 examples.
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.
How much is a GT40 worth today?
Q: What is the average sale price of a Ford GT40? A: The average price of a Ford GT40 is $5,602,000.
Did Ken Miles win Le Mans?
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.
Why was the Ford 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 ...
Why is the GT40 so expensive?
Because they are classified as an exotic sports car due to amount of parts such as carbon fiber that they used to build the car and is even harder to get the recent model as you need to submit an application to Ford themselves.
What was the GT40s top speed?
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 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. Some hallmarks of GT models include a near-seamless merging of luxury and performance and a 2+2 design.
