The Ford GT40 is a titan among American classics, born from Ford’s bold mission to outpace Ferrari at the 1964 Le Mans. Its enduring fame has sparked a surge of Ford GT40’s, letting enthusiasts relive its glory. While the GT40’s sleek aerodynamics and nimble handling played a role, its heart—the engine—truly powered its legendary status. Let’s dive into the evolution of the GT40’s powerplant and what made it a racing icon.

What Engine Did the Ford GT40 Have?

The first prototype of the Ford GT40, chassis GT/101, equipped with a 4.2-liter V8 borrowed from the Ford Fairlane. Producing 350 horsepower, it fell short of toppling Ferrari at Le Mans. By 1965, Ford upgraded to a 4.7-liter Windsor V8, which improved performance and reliability, making the GT40 more competitive for endurance racing.

The Big Leap: A 7.0-Liter Beast

In 1966, Ford unleashed the 7.0-liter (427-cubic-inch) big-block V8, a NASCAR-bred powerhouse, in the GT40 Mark II.  Delivering around 485 horsepower and massive torque, this engine clinched a historic 1-2-3 finish at Le Mans that year.

Offered blistering speeds on the Mulsanne Straight, rapid acceleration, and stamina to endure 24 grueling hours with few mechanical issues.

Engineering Features of the 7.0-Liter V8 Engine

The 7.0-liter engine in the Mark II GT40 was a marvel of its time, blending raw power with racing-ready design. Here’s what set it apart:

High-Performance Components

• Crankshaft. Forged steel unmatched durability under extreme racing conditions.
• Connecting Rods & Pistons. Lightweight and forged for high strength-to-weight ratios and high RPM ranges.
• Camshaft. High-lift cam profiles finely tuned for valve timing, maximizing airflow and power delivery.

Lubrication and Cooling

• Dry-Sump Lubrication System. Essential for maintaining oil pressure and preventing starvation during high-speed cornering typical of endurance racing.
• Cooling System. Larger radiators and enhanced cooling channels to manage the higher thermal output and prevent overheating during long races.

Exhaust System

• Headers:  Designed for superior exhaust flow, enhancing engine performance and power.
• Design: The “bundle of snakes" design, with intricately woven piping, optimized efficiency, giving the GT40 its signature roar.

The Decline of the Ford GT40's Dominating Reign

By 1969, the Ford GT40’s dominance at Le Mans slowly began to wane.  Here’s why:

Changing Regulations

Starting in 1968, the FIA capped prototype engine sizes at 3.0 liters, aligning with Formula 1 rules. The 7.0-liter GT40 became ineligible for top-tier competition overnight.

New Challenges

Even before the rule change, competition was already intensifying. Other manufacturers rolled out advanced, powerful machines tailored for endurance racing, challenging Ford’s edge.

Ford's New Priorities

After achieving its goal of beating Ferrari at Le Mans, Ford pivoted to fresh ventures. The Ford P68, a 3.0-liter prototype, emerged as their next contender—but it couldn’t replicate the GT40’s success.

The Final Victories

Despite the odds, the GT40 roared to victory at Le Mans in 1968 and 1969. John Wyer Automotive Engineering took over Shelby American's program and ran GT40s in the smaller Group 4 class. These victories showed the lasting quality and competitiveness of the GT40 design.

Can a new Superformance GT40 Match the Original 1967 GT40 Racecar Experience?

Building a GT40 offers exciting options but how close do they get to the real thing? Here’s a breakdown if you're considering a Ford GT40:

• Authentic Replication. Built from original blueprints, they mirror the design, performance, and feel of the classics.
• Period-Correct Components. Superformance GT40’s feature historically accurate components for an authentic driving vibe.
• Modern Limitations. Safety regulations and contemporary manufacturing may introduce subtle differences.
• Performance Parity. New models aim to replicate the power output and handling dynamics of the 60’s racecars.
• Sensory Thrill. While they capture the visceral sounds and tactile sensations, subtle distinctions can exist due to newer materials and build quality.
• Character Differences.  60’s racecar GT40s developed unique quirks from years of use, which are challenging to replicate precisely in new builds.
• Faithful Rendition. New Superformance GT40’s  deliver a remarkably faithful rendition of the thrilling driving experience with fewer drawbacks associated with vintage car ownership.

Planning to Get a GT40? Talk to Hillbank Motorsports Today!

Dreaming of owning an original 1965 Ford GT40's driving experience? You can achieve it through a new GT40. Hillbank Motorsports sells high-quality cars that capture the essence of this icon. Far beyond mere kit cars, our vehicles—like the GT40, Shelby Cobra 427 S/C, and Mustang GT350—honor their legendary roots. Reach out today to explore our lineup and own a piece of automotive history!