Roarington
Sign in
MEDIA HOUSE

1964 Ford GT40

GT40 image

The descriptions of the Classic Cars in the Directory were partly generated or supplemented with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The content may occasionally not always be entirely accurate or factually correct despite careful checking.

The Ford GT40 was introduced in 1964 as a response to Ferrari's dominance in the endurance racing world. The car was specifically designed to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans race, and it proved to be a formidable opponent for the Italian automaker.

The GT40's chassis was made of steel, with a lightweight aluminum body that was designed to reduce drag and improve aerodynamics. It was also equipped with a rear-mounted engine that provided excellent balance and stability on the track.

Under the hood, the GT40 was powered by a 4.7-liter V8 engine that was capable of delivering 330 horsepower. This power was sent to the rear wheels through a 4-speed manual transmission that allowed for precise shifting and maximum control.

The suspension system of the GT40 was also advanced for its time, with independent front and rear suspension that provided excellent handling and stability on the track. The car was also equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels, which provided excellent stopping power and allowed for quick and safe deceleration during races.

One of the most impressive features of the GT40 was its top speed, which was estimated to be around 200 mph. This was achieved through a combination of factors, including its powerful engine, aerodynamic design, and lightweight construction.

Overall, the Ford GT40 was a technological marvel of its time, with advanced engineering and design features that made it a formidable opponent on the race track. Its legacy as a racing icon continues to this day, with many enthusiasts considering it to be one of the greatest cars ever produced.

Milestones

- In 1964, Ford decided to build a car to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans race, with the intention of beating Ferrari who had won the race for six consecutive years. - Ford began working on the GT40 and developed a prototype with a chassis built by Lola Cars and an engine provided by Ford's Advanced Vehicles (FAV) division. - The GT40 made its debut at the Nurburgring 1000 km race in May 1964, but both cars failed to finish due to technical issues. - In June 1964, Ford debuted the GT40 at Le Mans, but all three cars retired early in the race due to mechanical issues. - The GT40 took its first race win at the 1965 Daytona 2000 km with Ken Miles and Lloyd Ruby behind the wheel of a GT40 Mk II. - In 1966, Ford won the 24 Hours of Le Mans with the GT40 Mk II driven by Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon. - In 1967, Ford won the 24 Hours of Le Mans again with the GT40 Mk IV driven by Dan Gurney and A.J. Foyt. - The GT40 went through multiple iterations, including the Mk I, Mk II, Mk III, and Mk IV, each with improved performance and design features. - The GT40's success at Le Mans cemented its place in automotive history as one of the most iconic race cars of all time.


Technical

- Engine: 4.7-liter (289 cubic inch) V8 - Power output: 335 horsepower - Transmission: 4-speed manual - Top speed: 164 mph - 0-60 mph acceleration: 4.6 seconds - Wheelbase: 95 inches - Length: 163 inches - Width: 70.5 inches - Height: 40 inches - Weight: 2,400 pounds - Suspension: Independent coil spring with double wishbone front and rear - Brakes: Disc brakes on all four wheels - Fuel tank capacity: 31 gallons - Body material: Fiberglass - Production years: 1964-1969 - Number produced: 107 (including prototypes) - Price at release (in 1964): $18,500 - Successes in racing: Four consecutive wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans from 1966 to 1969.

SUPERMIND TRIVIA