The Ford GT40 is a highly esteemed and iconic race car that was produced from 1964 to 1969. This impressive vehicle was originally developed to break Ferrari's dominance at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a goal that Ford ultimately achieved. The GT40 owes its creation to talented engineers and designers like Eric Broadley and Roy Lunn. The car stands out for its low height of just 40 inches, which also gave it its name. The GT40 was equipped with a 7.0-liter V8 engine, whose performance was top-notch, making it a serious contender in international motorsport.
The Ford GT40 achieved remarkable successes in motorsport. Particularly notable is its streak of victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. From 1966 to 1969, the GT40 won this prestigious race four consecutive times, earning it a legendary status. Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon were some of the talented drivers who led the GT40 to its first historic wins in 1966. Other well-known drivers like Jacky Ickx and Jochen Rindt also contributed to the success and piloted the vehicle to further victories in the following years.
The Ford GT40 boasted remarkable technical specifications. Its 7.0-liter V8 engine could produce between 485 and 500 horsepower, allowing it to reach a top speed of over 200 mph (320 km/h). The car's body was made from lightweight materials to optimize performance and handling. The aerodynamic design significantly contributed to stability at high speeds, which was crucial for endurance races like Le Mans. The GT40 was a true standout not only in performance but also in design.
This special 1/18 scale model, a replica of the legendary Ford GT40, was manufactured by Jouef. It is a modified model that does not reflect the original product made by Jouef. Crafted from the durable diecast material, this model features in Fred's collection on Modelly. The detailed design and specific modifications make this model a unique collector's item.
In the numerous photos, the attention to detail of this modified 1/18 scale model of the Ford GT40 is evident. The striking paint job in the Gulf colors of sky blue and orange, with race number 6 and prominent sponsor logos of Gulf and Firestone, immediately catches the eye. The shapes and contours of the vehicle are faithfully replicated, including the ventilation slits and engine cover. The wheels and tires have realistic rubber surfaces with markings, enhancing the authentic look further. Every detail of this model, from the headlights to the rear end, has been meticulously recreated to capture the essence of the original as best as possible.