The Ford GT40 is a high-performance mid-engined racing car originally designed and built for and by the Ford Motor Company to compete in 1960s European endurance racing. Its specific impetus was to best Scuderia Ferrari, which had won the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans race for six years running from 1960 to 1965. Around 100 cars have been ...

The Ford GT40 dominated the racing world in the 1960s, etching its name into motorsport legend. Born from a fiery rivalry with Ferrari, this American powerhouse conquered the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, not once, but four consecutive times.

Nov 15, 2019 · From the October 1966 issue of R&T, please enjoy this thorough technical analysis of the car that finally beat Ferrari—the GT40 Mk II. -Ed. There's a lot of cheer in the Ford racing...

A month later, the High Performance and Special Models Operation Unit was formed with the mission to design and build “A racing GT car that will have the potential to compete successfully in major road races such as Sebring and Le Mans.”

Aug 17, 2017 · On June 12 th, Lunn and Frey presented a confidential competition programme to Ford’s cigar-chomping execs, envisaging a mid-engined racecar called the GT40 (it stood just 40in high), and a...

Nov 25, 2024 · Standing just 40 inches tall, the sleek racer earned its GT40 designation from its ultra-low profile. This wasn't just about looking good; every inch was calculated for maximum aerodynamic efficiency. The car's distinctive height would become its calling card and an integral part of racing history. Pedro Ribeiro Simões, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

The origins of the Ford GT40 and the victory at Le Mans in 1966. One of the first changes made for the 1966 racing season was the establishment of the Le Mans Committee, which was comprised of the heads of a number of Ford divisions involved, including the Engine and Foundry, General Parts, and also expanded the role of the Dearborn Motorsports ...

Dec 21, 2023 · For Ford racing enthusiasts, the Ford GT40 will always be the pinnacle of racing heritage. The GT40 design was unlike anything Ford had released at the time, and after its debut, the car’s racing pedigree would include wins at Le Mans.

Jan 15, 2025 · On May 31, 1964, the Ford GT40 made its racing debut at the 1000-kilometer Nürburgring. During the race, the car initially held strong positions but ultimately faced reliability issues with its suspension.

Jan 21, 2025 · The 1966 Ford GT40 ‘s victory at Le Mans marked a turning point in racing history. With innovative engineering, powerful performance, and strategic decisions, Ford’s GT40 overcame Ferrari, proving American automotive prowess on the world stage.