Ford GT40 Mk III

About this model

To homologate the GT40 for Group 4 racing, 50 units had to be produced. Assembly and sales were handled by Ford Advanced Vehicles (FAV) in the UK, headed by John Wyer, who had relinquished control of development to Shelby after the poor ‘64 season.

Following the Le Mans victory, Wyer purchased the assets and was contracted to provide service and racing support for GT40 owners. FAV transitioned into John Wyer Automotive Engineering (JWAE), soon gaining a commission from Ford to develop a true road-going GT40.

Although the GT40 could be ordered in road trim, the result was a thinly veiled race car. Ford was keen to capitalise on its Le Mans success and saw the market potential of a supercar, akin to the contemporary Lamborghini Miura.

This car, the ‘GT40 Mk III’, was tailored for road use. Its chassis was filled with expanding foam, absorbing noise and heat, while its suspension softened for a more supple ride. Under the bonnet, the Mk III sported a 4.7-litre V8, mated to the familiar ZF five-speed transmission. It produced 306 bhp with a single four-barrel Holley carburettor and road-friendly exhaust system.

To meet road regulations, the body had to be redesigned, raising the headlights and increasing ground clearance. The rear was also extended for luggage space, further interfering with the pure lines of the base car.

The interior was somewhat improved, but this wasn’t enough to win over period road testers. The media complained about build quality issues, a poor gear change and insufficient heat insulation for the luggage compartment. This, accompanied by its extortionate price tag, made the Mk III a tough sell.

In total, four Mk IIIs were retained by Ford for promotional use, and only three were sold to private customers.