Where did the Ford GT40 body come from?
The Ford GT40 is one of the most legendary sports cars in automotive history, known for its stunning design and impressive racing pedigree. But where did the GT40's iconic body come from? The answer lies in a fascinating story of international collaboration and engineering ingenuity.
The Origins of the GT40 Body
The Ford GT40's body design was not entirely original, but rather a product of international cooperation and adaptation. The GT40's body was based on the Lola Mk6 GT, a British racing car developed by the renowned Lola Cars International.
In the early 1960s, Ford was looking to challenge the dominance of Ferrari in endurance racing, particularly the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans. The company approached Lola Cars, led by Eric Broadley, to help develop a car that could compete with the Italians. Broadley's Lola Mk6 GT provided the foundation for what would become the Ford GT40.
Adapting the Lola Design
Ford's engineers took the Lola Mk6 GT design and made several modifications to create the GT40. They lengthened the chassis, widened the body, and made other adjustments to accommodate Ford's powerful V8 engine.
- The GT40's body was made of lightweight aluminum, a departure from the Lola's fiberglass construction.
- Ford's designers also incorporated a distinctive "double-bubble" roof design, which provided additional headroom for the driver and passenger.
- The GT40's sleek, aerodynamic shape was a key factor in its success on the racetrack, helping it achieve top speeds of over 200 mph.
The collaboration between Lola and Ford resulted in a car that was not only visually stunning but also highly capable on the race circuit. The GT40's body design, combined with its powerful engine and skilled drivers, helped the car achieve four consecutive victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans from 1966 to 1969.
