The GT-40 history

In 1963 Henry II wanted to revive the Ford image and realize his ambition of creating a winner at Le Mans under the Ford badge. He had hoped to acquire Ferrari for ten million dollars, but Enzo Ferrari refused a deal. Having witnessed Ferrari’s unbeaten record on the famous 24-hour endurance circuit, Ford became determined to develop a champion of his own. So, with the resources of the Ford Empire behind him and the tenacity to continue undaunted, Henry II looked to build this dream.  

Ford Advanced Vehicles was created with the sole purpose of designing and developing a supreme racing car that would speed to victory at Le Mans.

The project that would create the GT40 was ushered in under the auspices of Eric Broadley in the United Kingdom. The first prototype, complete with a mid-mounted Ford V8 engine and monocoque chassis was finished by 1964. Its name was attributed to its elevation, 40 inches from the ground at its highest point.

But it was a few years before Ford would taste victory. Some further development was needed to improve the directional stability, suspension and aerodynamics, although its potential at the outset looked to be very great.

The dream was finally realized in 1966 when on June 18 - not one, not two - but three GT40s sped over the finishing line at Le Mans - beating Ferrari.. Ford sped to victory every year after that until 1969.