What makes the Ford GT40 so special?
The Ford GT40 is not just a car; it’s a legend in the world of motorsports and automotive history. Known for its stunning design, groundbreaking engineering, and unparalleled racing success, the GT40 holds a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts and collectors alike. But what exactly makes this car so extraordinary? Let’s dive into the details.
A Racing Icon Born from Rivalry
The Ford GT40 was born out of a fierce rivalry between Ford and Ferrari in the 1960s. After a failed attempt by Ford to purchase Ferrari, Henry Ford II decided to beat Ferrari at their own game: endurance racing. The GT40 was developed with one goal in mind—winning the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, a race Ferrari had dominated for years.
In 1966, the GT40 achieved this goal in spectacular fashion, securing a 1-2-3 finish at Le Mans. This victory marked the beginning of a four-year winning streak for the GT40, cementing its status as a racing legend.
Innovative Engineering and Design
The GT40 was a marvel of engineering for its time. Here are some of the key features that set it apart:
- Lightweight Construction: The GT40 utilized advanced materials and design techniques to keep its weight low, improving speed and handling.
- Powerful Engine: Equipped with a roaring V8 engine, the GT40 delivered exceptional performance on the track.
- Aerodynamic Design: Its sleek, low-slung body was designed to minimize drag and maximize stability at high speeds.
- Advanced Suspension: The car featured a sophisticated suspension system that provided excellent grip and control, even on challenging circuits.
Timeless Aesthetic Appeal
Beyond its performance, the Ford GT40 is celebrated for its timeless design. Its low profile, aggressive stance, and iconic Gulf livery (blue and orange) have made it one of the most recognizable and admired cars in automotive history. Even today, the GT40’s design influences modern supercars, including its successor, the Ford GT.
A Legacy That Lives On
The Ford GT40’s legacy extends far beyond its racing achievements. It represents a triumph of determination, innovation, and American engineering. Collectors and enthusiasts continue to celebrate the GT40, with original models fetching millions of dollars at auctions. Additionally, Ford has honored the GT40’s legacy with modern iterations, such as the Ford GT, which pay homage to the original while incorporating cutting-edge technology.
In conclusion, the Ford GT40 is special because it embodies the perfect blend of performance, design, and history. It’s a car that not only changed the world of motorsports but also captured the imagination of car lovers everywhere. Whether you’re a racing fan or simply appreciate automotive excellence, the GT40 is a true icon that will forever hold a place in the pantheon of great cars.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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 ...
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
