1966 Ford GT40 MK I
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The Ford GT40 MK I is a legendary sports car that has captivated racing enthusiasts for over five decades. It is one of the most iconic cars in the history of motorsports, and for good reason. Designed to dominate the world-famous Le Mans 24-hour endurance race, this vehicle boasts unbeatable technical specifications.
Standing just 40 inches tall, the sleek and aerodynamic exterior of the GT40 MK I is constructed with a fiberglass monocoque chassis, carefully crafted to keep the car extremely lightweight. The tubular steel frame and suspension system are race-inspired, giving the car maximum handling and stability at high speeds.
Powered by a roaring 4.7-liter naturally aspirated V-8 engine, the GT40 MK I produces an impressive 415 horsepower at 6,000 revolutions per minute. The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission with a heavy-duty clutch, allowing drivers to smoothly shift through the gears and reach speeds of up to 170 miles per hour.
The car has a symmetrical aerodynamic profile, with a long, sloping nose that reduces drag and maximizes downforce. The distinctive vertical headlights are set deep into the front fenders, giving the car a menacing appearance at night. Large rear fenders provide ample space for wide racing tires, while the distinctively shaped air intakes on the roof and rear fascia enhance engine cooling and optimize engine performance.
Inside, the driver is surrounded by a minimalist environment designed for high-speed maneuvering. The low-profile racing seats are crafted from fiberglass and covered in black leather, and feature a 5-point harness to keep drivers securely in place during sudden maneuvering. The dashboard layout is simple and intuitive, providing drivers with quick access to critical instrumentation.
Overall, the Ford GT40 MK I is a masterpiece of engineering that blends stunning design with unbeatable performance. It remains one of the most coveted and respected cars in the world of motorsports, and its legacy continues to inspire a new generation of racing enthusiasts.
Milestones
- The Ford GT40 MK I was introduced in 1966 as a response to Ferrari's dominance in endurance sports car racing. - The car was powered by a 7.0-liter V8 engine, producing up to 485 horsepower. - The GT40 MK I made its racing debut at the 24 Hours of Daytona in January 1966, but suffered from mechanical issues and did not finish. - The car then went on to win the 12 Hours of Sebring in March 1966, with drivers Ken Miles and Lloyd Ruby at the wheel. - In June 1966, the GT40 MK I took the top three places in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, with Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon taking the overall victory. - This was Ford's first win at Le Mans, and it marked the beginning of a dominant era for the GT40 in endurance racing. - The GT40 MK I continued to be developed and improved throughout its lifetime, with several different versions being introduced over the years. - The car remains an iconic and highly sought-after classic today, both for its racing success and its striking design.Technical
- Engine: 4.7L V8 - Power output: 306 horsepower - Transmission: 4-speed manual - Fuel System: 4 Weber 48IDA carburetors - Top speed: 164 mph - 0-60 mph acceleration: 5.3 seconds - Weight: 2330 pounds - Overall length: 163.2 inches - Overall width: 70.9 inches - Wheelbase: 95.0 inches - Suspension: Independent suspension front and rear - Brakes: Disc brakes all around - Tires: Goodyear Eagle GT tires (front: F60-15, rear: G60-15)Related manufacturer
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