The Ford GT40 stands as a monumental achievement in automotive history, representing a blend of innovation, ambition, and fierce rivalry. The roots of the GT40 trace back to the early 1960s, when Henry Ford II, famously known as “The Deuce,” aimed to boost Ford’s prestige by entering the realm of endurance racing. His initial strategy involved acquiring Ferrari, the reigning champion of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. However, negotiations with Enzo Ferrari fell apart at the last moment due to Ferrari’s unwillingness to relinquish control over his racing division. This rejection fueled Ford’s determination to defeat Ferrari on the track, leading to the creation of the GT40 project. The car’s name, GT40, derived from its 40-inch height from ground to roof, designed to comply with the FIA’s Group 4 racing regulations.

Carroll Shelby, a former racing driver turned car manufacturer, and Ken Miles, a British-born driver and engineer, played pivotal roles in turning the GT40 into a formidable racing machine. Shelby, who had already achieved success with his Cobra sports cars, brought his expertise and competitive spirit to the Ford team. Ken Miles, known for his exceptional driving skills and engineering insights, became instrumental in refining the GT40’s performance. Their collaboration began after early versions of the GT40, developed by Ford Advanced Vehicles in the UK, faced significant reliability and performance issues. Shelby American, based in Los Angeles, took over the project. Through rigorous testing and relentless feedback from Miles, the GT40 Mk II emerged as a formidable contender in the racing world.

Technically, the GT40 underwent significant evolutions to reach its peak performance. The Mk I, the initial version, featured a steel monocoque chassis and a 4.2-liter V8 engine. However, it was the Mk II that marked a substantial leap forward. This version was powered by a 7.0-liter (427 cubic inch) V8 engine sourced from NASCAR, capable of producing over 485 horsepower. The Mk II also incorporated advanced aerodynamic features and improved cooling systems to enhance reliability and speed over long distances. The car’s suspension was re-engineered to handle the increased power, with stronger components and refined geometry to maintain stability at high speeds. These technical improvements were crucial in the car’s competitive success.

The GT40’s crowning achievement came at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans. In a race that has become legendary, Ford not only beat Ferrari but achieved a historic 1-2-3 finish. This victory was a testament to the combined efforts of Shelby, Miles, and the entire Ford team. Ken Miles, who played a crucial role in developing the GT40, was poised to win the race and secure an unprecedented triple crown of endurance racing, having already won at Daytona and Sebring. However, due to a controversial team decision to stage a photo finish, Miles’ car was classified second. This decision remains a poignant moment in motorsport history, highlighting the complex interplay between competition and corporate strategy.

The GT40’s dominance at Le Mans did not end in 1966. The car continued to win the prestigious race in 1967, 1968, and 1969. The 1967 victory was marked by the introduction of the Mk IV, which featured a new chassis and advanced aerodynamic design. Powered by the same 7.0-liter V8, the Mk IV was driven to victory by Dan Gurney and A.J. Foyt, who set a new distance record. In 1968 and 1969, the GT40 Mk I, despite being an older model, proved its enduring competitiveness. The 1969 race, in particular, saw a dramatic finish with Jacky Ickx outmaneuvering his rival in the final moments to win by a mere 120 meters, securing the GT40’s place in the annals of racing history.