Avik Roy Chowdhury Here’s what makes the Ford GT40 so special The most recognizable and illustrious American racing vehicle is still the Ford GT40, which shines in the archives of automotive history. Henry Ford II had a fantasy of building a racing vehicle that would compete fiercely with Italian rival Ferrari and finish first in the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans. The GT40 was the brainchild of Ford Motors since it was created with love in America and nourished by England. The GT in GT40 stands for Grand Touring, as the name would imply, and 40 is the measurement of its overall height in inches.
It is an artifact from the history
Due to its four consecutive victories in a row (1966–1969), the Ford GT40 is the only vehicle in Le Mans history to have achieved this feat. This car serves as both a technical marvel and a symbol of American emotion. The first automobile in American history to dethrone the Ferrari. Undoubtedly, millions of Americans who saw the historic event still harbor a deep passion for this machine.
It came out more powerful with Caroll Shelby’s touch
The beginning of the story is in 1964 when the GT40 finishes last in both the Le Mans and the Nürburgring. With its competitors, it was not suitable. The beast was strong, but it required an additional elixir or potion to make it invincible. The Texas-born designer engineer enters the picture at that point. Shelby gave the much-needed performance increase and the vital racing DNA. The 7.0 Litre V8 that was formerly in the Cobra was installed in place of the 4.2 Litre V8.
An engineering accomplishment: A car that was way ahead of its time
The GT40 was not only a performance powerhouse, but it was also an engineering marvel. Due to the quickness of its transmission, a 7-speed dual-clutch vehicle was able to keep its competitors in the shadows. Speaking about the design, it was the most aerodynamically efficient of its class and competitors, with the lowest drag coefficient. This had a significant role in transforming it into a speed rocket with a high gas average.
Ford GT40: A Legend till this day
It is no wonder the GT40 revolutionized the American race culture where once European Maestro Ferrari used to rule. Being the first American car to win the Le Mans is a moment of pride for Americans as well as car enthusiasts today. With limited units passed through the production line the GT40 makes its way into the list of hefty price tags. Considering all the above facts the Ford GT40 is indeed unique.
