A Brief History of the Ford GT40
At Akins Ford in Winder, GA, we have a deep appreciation for legendary American muscle, especially when it comes to the Ford GT40. This iconic car is not just a symbol of automotive performance but also a testament to Ford’s determination and engineering prowess. In this blog, we’ll take a look at the history of the Ford GT40, its remarkable journey through racing, and how it became a legend at Le Mans.
The Origins of the Ford GT40
The Ford GT history began in the early 1960s when Ford Motor Company sought to dominate motorsport. This all started with a high-profile failure to buy Ferrari. Ford tried to acquire the legendary Italian brand, hoping to enhance its racing credibility. However, when negotiations collapsed in 1963, Henry Ford II made a bold decision: instead of acquiring Ferrari, Ford would build its own racing machine.
This led to the creation of the GT40, which had one main goal: to conquer the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a race Ferrari had dominated for years. The early stages of the GT40 were challenging, but with the help of racing legends like Carroll Shelby, it became a contender.
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The Birth of the GT40
Ford formed a special team to design and build a car capable of competing with Ferrari. This team included Roy Lunn, Carroll Shelby, and Eric Broadley, the mastermind behind the Lola GT. The result was the Ford GT40, which was designed to be low and wide, with a height of just 40 inches—hence the name “GT40.” Despite early setbacks and a rough debut in the 1964 24 Hours of Le Mans, the team was determined to refine the car.
While the top speed of the Ford GT40 was impressive, the car struggled with durability issues, particularly with its suspension and gearbox. But this didn’t stop Ford. Under the leadership of Shelby and Lunn, the team continued to refine the design, making improvements in aerodynamics, weight reduction, and reliability.
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Ford vs. Ferrari: The Rivalry Heats Up
By 1966, Ford was ready to take on Ferrari again at Le Mans. This time, with the help of the newly developed 427 engine, Ford had a serious chance of winning. The Ford GT40 had evolved significantly, and its engines were pushing more horsepower than ever before. Carroll Shelby’s race team, including legendary drivers like Ken Miles and Bruce McLaren, got to work, making critical improvements to the car’s aerodynamics, suspension, and braking systems.
In 1966, Ford made its mark at Le Mans with a historic 1-2-3 finish. The GT40s swept the podium, dethroning Ferrari after years of dominance at the race. The victory was a turning point, establishing the Ford GT40 as one of the most iconic racing cars in history.
The Engineering Behind the Ford GT40’s Success
The Ford GT40 became a symbol of cutting-edge engineering. The car’s aerodynamics were refined with help from Ford’s wind tunnels, and it benefited from innovations in materials and design. In fact, the GT40 used lightweight materials like fiberglass, magnesium wheels, and aluminum body panels, making it faster and more agile than earlier models.
The 427 engine used in the Mark II models of the GT40 was a massive improvement over earlier versions. It gave the car a huge power boost, enabling it to reach a top speed of 210 mph during testing—a significant achievement in motorsports.
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The Legacy of the Ford GT40
The Ford GT40‘s victory in 1966 was just the beginning. Ford went on to win Le Mans in 1967, solidifying its place in racing history. The car became an icon, not just for its racing success, but for the innovation it represented. Today, the legacy of the Ford GT40 continues to inspire car enthusiasts around the world, including right here at Akins Ford.
Key Features and Accomplishments of the Ford GT40
- Engine: 7.0L V8, producing up to 485 horsepower
- Top Speed: 210 mph during testing
- Racing Wins: Multiple Le Mans victories, including the iconic 1-2-3 finish in 1966
- Design: Low and wide, with a height of just 40 inches, designed for maximum speed and aerodynamics
GT40 Forever: The Race Lives on In History
The history of the Ford GT40 is one of perseverance, innovation, and triumph. From its humble beginnings in the mid-1960s to its iconic victory at Le Mans, the GT40 demonstrated Ford’s unwavering commitment to excellence. It remains a revered symbol of American automotive ingenuity and racing prowess. At Akins Ford, we honor that legacy and continue to celebrate the Ford GT history every time we see one of these legendary machines on the road.
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