The Ford GT40 Mk II is one of the most significant race cars in history. It was developed as part of Ford’s ambitious program aimed at winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans. After a challenging development process, they succeeded in 1966, when the GT40 Mk II took first, second, and third place, ending Ferrari’s long-standing dominance at the famous French circuit.
At the heart of the model was a 7.0-liter V8 (427 cu in) engine derived from the NASCAR program. The engine, producing approximately 485 koní, was paired with a 4-speed Kar Kraft manual transmission, making the GT40 Mk II one of the fastest endurance prototypes of its time.
At first glance, it catches the eye:
- with an extremely low-drag body
- characteristic air inlets behind the doors
- a powerful 7.0-liter V8 engine
- with its iconic design, which became a symbol of the Le Mans era of the 1960s
The GT40 Mk II was driven by legendary drivers such as Ken Miles, Bruce McLaren, Chris Amon, A. J. Foyt, Mark Donohue, and Ronnie Bucknum, who played a significant role in its successes at the world’s most prestigious circuits.
The Ford GT40 Mk II remains one of the greatest icons in motorsports to this day. Its victory at Le Mans in 1966 ranks among the most significant moments in automotive history and forever changed the rivalry between Ford and Ferrari.
