Ford GT40
Ford
Photo: Calreyn88 / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0
Ford GT40: The Ferrari-Beating Le Mans Legend
The GT40 is one of the most legendary race cars ever, the machine that ended Ferrari's dominance and won Le Mans four times in a row.
Born from Henry Ford II's determination to beat Ferrari at Le Mans, the GT40 became a motorsport legend. After early struggles, it delivered a historic 1-2-3 finish at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans and went on to win the race four consecutive times from 1966 to 1969.
Named for its roughly 40-inch height, the GT40 used powerful American V8 engines in a low, sleek body. The story of its development and rivalry with Ferrari was later dramatized in the film Ford v Ferrari.
Original GT40s are now among the most valuable and revered cars in the world, and the model directly inspired the modern Ford GT supercars.
Frequently asked questions about Ford GT40
Why was the GT40 built?
It was built from Henry Ford II's determination to beat Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
How many times did the GT40 win Le Mans?
The GT40 won Le Mans four consecutive times from 1966 to 1969.
Why is it called GT40?
The name refers to its roughly 40-inch height.
What film features the GT40?
Its rivalry with Ferrari was dramatized in the film Ford v Ferrari.
Did the GT40 inspire other cars?
Yes, it directly inspired the modern Ford GT supercars.