1965 Ford GT40 Roadster Prototype
Detroit’s first purpose-built prototype-class race car emerged from Ford’s determination to defeat Ferrari at Le Mans, a goal the GT40 would accomplish for four consecutive years.
Before the 87 production examples with P-prefix serial numbers, Ford Advanced Vehicles in Slough, UK, constructed twelve experimental prototypes carrying GT-prefix designations.
Among these early development cars, only five roadsters were built, with four using purpose-built pressed-steel roadster-specification monocoque chassis. These open examples featured modified bodywork by designer Len Bailey, including a revised nose and raised rear-pillar air intakes distinct from the coupe variants.
Borrani wire wheels (6.5 inches front, 8 inches rear) and a white finish characterized the first completed roadster.
Power came from a Cobra-specification 289-cubic-inch Ford V-8 initially paired with a Colotti T-37 transaxle, though ZF units later replaced the Italian gearboxes.
The roadsters served multiple roles during 1965, functioning as test beds for development work, promotional vehicles at racing events, and demonstration cars for Ford executives and racing drivers.
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