We tend to get wrapped up in the hype over new car models or limited edition cars – especially when they are about to hit the race-track, but how about stepping back in time in the most original and rarest GT40 in its existence to race around Willow Springs International?
Two years ago, that just happened with chassis number GT/108 the first of the six GT40 Roadsters ever built (one of four that survived), the eighth of only twelve GT40 prototypes and the only Roadster to continually survive in its original form.
That makes this Ford GT40 the absolute rarest of its kind – now that’s pretty special if you ask me. This car was built for a purpose, and although we know Ford had the reputation for building GT40s to go hard and fast to beat Ferraris.
Ford produced six of the GT40s with 289 cubic inch engine with Weber carburettors mated to a Colotti four-speed gearbox, new nose section developed by Len Bailey at FAV. Its rear piller intakes were taller than standard beltline scoops and its Borrani wheels fitted to 6 ½ inch Goodyear tyres in the front, and an 8 inch in the rear.
We sourced some of these incredible images of the original GT40 Prototype from Girardo who goes into specific detail about the history of this magnificent vehicle.
For now, have a lot at these photos and try not to drool…
