As a GT40 that has traveled around the world to be photographed and driven by famous automotive journalists, this particular press unit brings its own unique story.
In the world of classic cars, the Ford GT40 is special. This legendary sports car, famed for its Le Mans victories, is not only a symbol of racing dominance but also an embodiment of automotive motorsports. And now, there’s a unique opportunity to own a piece of that legacy– the original Ford GT40 press car.
Indeed, this is a rare opportunity, as Ford produced only 105 GT40s across four iterations, and most were destined for the racetrack. However, this particular GT40, chassis P/1069, is an unusual gem. It was among a select few that were commissioned by Ford in “road trim” and built to order in the United States, making it a road-legal version of the Le Mans-winning race car.
This GT40 had a fascinating journey through time. It debuted at the 1967 Geneva Auto Show, where it garnered significant attention. Notably, it wasn’t in its original Opalescent Silver Blue paint but had been repainted in Metallic Borneo Green. Afterward, Ford UK took the reins and offered the vehicle to British journalists for testing and photography (this was the golden era of automotive journalism when writers provided readers with firsthand experiences of the latest and greatest vehicles).
But the story didn’t stop there. In 1969, the GT40 returned to the Geneva Auto Show for an encore performance. Then, it embarked on a new adventure, changing hands and even receiving a yellow paint job. It participated in vintage racing events, including the prestigious Goodwood Revival in 2007.
Fast forward to today, and this storied GT40 has been restored to its original factory condition, donning the Opalescent Silver Blue paint once more. The road-going GT40s had special features such as carpeting, fabric door pockets, and wire wheels. Under the hood, it boasts a 4.7-liter V8 engine, generating an impressive 380 hp and 312 lb-ft of torque.
The real question now is, how much would it cost to own this iconic piece of automotive history? Unfortunately, the listing doesn’t reveal a specific price, but knowledgeable sources suggest that an original GT40, even in good condition, can command a substantial price tag. While it’s not easy to predict the exact amount, it’s likely to reach well into the millions. After all, the allure of owning a GT40 press car, with its unique journey and vibrant history, is priceless for true collectors.
Indeed, owning an original GT40 press car is truly a dream come true for any collector. Its legacy in motorsport and place in history as an iconic sports car makes it one of the most coveted pieces of automotive history.
While the price of such a treasure might be significant, the pride and prestige of owning an original Ford GT40 press car will be immeasurable. It’s a chance to hold a piece of racing history in your hands, and for many, that’s a priceless goal well worth pursuing.
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