In 1966, the Ford GT 40 Mark II won the undisputed victory at the «24 Hours of Le Mans» competition. Two previous attempts to win were unsuccessful. However, even despite the triumphant victory, the model already required an update. The successor to the prosperous car was the Ford GT40 Mark 4.
The manufacturer began developing a new model still in 1965, taking into account all the changes in the FIA requirements. The final detail before the release of the Mark IV (Ford GT40 MK4) was the innovation made to the prototype "J".
The Mark IV differed from its predecessor by a new aluminum body with a long, squat front end. And thanks to the NACA pipes and air intakes, the model has increased its streamlining.
During numerous tests, it was found that the new car has excellent aerodynamic performance. Having finalized and improved the chassis and engine from the Mark II, it was possible to increase the power of the Mark IV to 530 hp.
Another distinguishing characteristic of the new sports car was excellent stability. Already in 1967, the Mark IV won the “12 Hours of Sebring” competition, and at “Le Mans” it was 5 laps ahead of the main rival - Ferrari. But this was his last race, since already in 1968 restrictions on the maximum engine displacement were set. It is said that such restrictions were created so that at least someone other than the Ford GT could win the race.
SPECIFICATIONS FORD GT40 MARK 4
- Engine capacity - 6997 cm3
- Power - 507 hp / 6400 rpm
- Torque - 637.0 Nm / 5000 rpm
- Drive / Supercharged - Rear (MR) / Atmospheric (AC)
