The Ford GT40 debuted in 1964 with the first generation referred to as the MK I. Since the early 1960s, Henry Ford II had wanted a Ford to race at Le Mans. When a deal to takeover of Ferrari fell through, the GT40 was developed with the unilateral goal of beating Ferrari at Le Mans. The MK I’s initial attempt at Le Mans was short lived, with all three entries retiring, although the Ginther/Gregory car led the field for a section of the race. The lessons learned from the 1964 and 1965 seasons allowed for the 7-litre MK IIs to dominate, achieving a 1,2,3 win at Daytona and finally realising Fords dream with the marque’s first win at Le Mans in 1966. 31 MK I GT40s had been built at the Slough factory and fitted with “road” trim, but Ford saw the potential for a purpose-built GT40 road car.
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