Ford GT40: The 57-Year-Old Le Mans Legend and Its Iconic Journey

Car LEGEND - The Ford GT40 is a legendary sports car celebrated for its historic triumphs against Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans from 1966 to 1969. However, its road to greatness was far from smooth. In this exploration, we will uncover the early days of GT40's design and its remarkable evolution, culminating in the creation of the iconic sports car we know today.

The first Ford GT40's clay model which was released a few weeks after the sketches made by Ford's Performance and Special Models Operation Unit. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

In the wake of Ford's failed attempt to acquire Ferrari, the idea of creating their own sports car began to take shape. With Enzo Ferrari retracting his decision at the last moment, Ford was left with no choice but to develop their sports car, thus giving birth to the GT40 on June 11, 1963

This is the first sketch of the 57-year-old Le Mans legend's Ford GT40. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

This could be knew from a sketch of what is believed to be an early GT40 design was discovered in the Ford Performance archives, drawn by a special unit called the Performance and Special Models Operation Unit was formed with the primary mission of crafting a GT racing car capable of competing at prestigious events like Sebring and Le Mans.

This is the first sketch of the 57-year-old Le Mans legend's Ford GT40. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

Shortly after the sketch's creation, Ford Performance unveiled a clay model of the first GT40. The team had a mere ten months to prepare for the 24 Hours of Le Mans 1964 racing competition, where the car's height was reduced to 40 inches, inspiring the car's name.

This is the first sketch of the 57-year-old Le Mans legend's Ford GT40. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

Although the original design was impressive, Ford's test driver encountered difficulties in controlling the car at high speeds. As a result, Ford focused on improving the car's aerodynamics to enhance stability, including the addition of a rear spoiler. Despite the efforts, the GT40's legendary status was cut short, lasting only 12 hours in the race that year among the three participating cars.

This is the first sketch of the 57-year-old Le Mans legend's Ford GT40. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

In 1965, Ford embarked on a journey of technological advancements to calculate aerodynamics accurately. A wind tunnel was introduced to further enhance the body design and optimize airflow. These improvements resulted in a power boost of 79 hp, along with the incorporation of magnesium wheels with a wider tread, and the replacement of heavy materials like aluminum and iron with lightweight fiberglass.

The historical moment when the Ford team finished 1-2-3 with three (#2, #1 and #5) of its GT40 racing cars at the 24 Hours of Le Mans 1966. (Picture from: GridOto)

Throughout the year, Ford made over 100 changes to the GT40, determined to create a car that could rival Ferrari. Finally, in the following year, the GT40 achieved its place in history by defeating Ferrari. With upgraded fuel and braking systems, the GT40 reached an impressive top speed of 204 mph (approximately 328 kph).

In the end, the Ford GT40 exemplifies Ford's unwavering determination to create a world-class sports car. From its humble beginnings as a mere sketch, it evolved into a true icon through constant innovation and improvements. The GT40's remarkable legacy will forever be etched in the annals of automotive history, inspiring generations of enthusiasts and leaving an enduring mark on the world of motorsport. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SILODROME ]

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