Ford GT40

The Ford GT40 was developed in the mid-1960s specifically to end Ferrari's reign at the 24 Hours of Le Mans race. This racing program was initiated after negotiations for Ford to purchase Ferrari fell through. Henry Ford II funded the project to get revenge on Enzo Ferrari on the track.

The Ford GT40 achieved four consecutive victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans between 1966 and 1969. The 1966 win was particularly historic, as it marked the first time an American car won the French endurance race. It decisively ended Ferrari's longstanding dominance at the event.

The "40" in Ford GT40 refers to the car's overall height, which was exactly 40 inches tall. This exceptionally low profile was required to meet the aerodynamic and regulatory needs for international racing. The low height made the car highly aerodynamic but notoriously difficult for taller drivers to enter.

The original Ford GT40 chassis was designed by Lola Cars, specifically utilizing elements from the Lola Mk6. Ford brought in Eric Broadley of Lola to help design the early GT prototypes. Later, Carroll Shelby and Ken Miles were instrumental in refining the car's handling and V8 engine.