Shmidt.Art - Ford GT40 Technical Data 1966 - 1960s

A premium automotive poster dedicated to the 1966 Ford GT40 Mk I — one of the most legendary endurance racing cars ever developed and an enduring symbol of Ford's determination to challenge Ferrari at the highest level of international motorsport.

This artwork presents the Ford GT40 Mk I through a detailed technical blueprint composition, combining precise front, side and rear elevations with a large top-down mechanical cutaway, dimensional references and comprehensive engineering specifications.

The Legend of the GT40

Developed during the 1960s as part of Ford's ambitious international racing programme, the GT40 was created with a clear objective: to defeat Ferrari in endurance racing and establish Ford as a dominant force at Le Mans.

The project brought together American engineering resources and British motorsport expertise, producing a purpose-built racing machine designed for exceptional speed, aerodynamic efficiency and long-distance durability.

The GT40 Mk I became one of the defining sports racing cars of its generation, combining a remarkably low body profile with a powerful American V8 engine and sophisticated racing chassis.

In 1966, Ford achieved its historic breakthrough at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, securing a remarkable first, second and third-place finish. The overall victory was achieved by the larger-engined GT40 Mk II, while the Mk I remained an important part of the GT40 racing programme and its subsequent success.

American V8 Racing Engineering

At the heart of the Ford GT40 Mk I is a naturally aspirated 4.7-litre Ford V8, mounted longitudinally behind the cockpit.

Based on Ford's 289 cubic-inch small-block architecture, the engine combines compact dimensions, robust construction and strong performance characteristics suitable for endurance competition.

In racing specification, the engine could produce approximately 380 bhp, depending on preparation and configuration.

Power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transaxle, providing a direct mechanical connection between the engine and the driven wheels.

The GT40's steel monocoque chassis, independent suspension and exceptionally low aerodynamic bodywork contributed to its stability and performance at high speeds.

Design & Aesthetic

The poster uses a warm ivory background with restrained black, grey and burgundy detailing inspired by historic Ford competition engineering drawings and mid-century motorsport technical documentation.

The composition features detailed front, side and rear elevations, highlighting the GT40's extremely low silhouette, distinctive front air intakes, wide racing bodywork and compact mid-engine proportions.

A large top-down technical illustration forms the centerpiece of the artwork, revealing the cockpit arrangement, mid-mounted Ford V8, rear transaxle and mechanical architecture beneath the bodywork.

Fine dimensional markings, technical specifications and a period-inspired Ford Advanced Vehicles Technical Inspection Slough 1966 stamp reinforce the archival engineering character of the design.

Poster Details

Size: A1 (594 × 841 mm)
Orientation: Portrait
Subject: Ford GT40 Mk I
Year: 1966
Engine: 4.7-litre naturally aspirated V8
Engine Type: Ford 289 small-block
Displacement: 4727 cc
Configuration: 90-degree V8
Valvetrain: OHV, pushrod
Induction: Four Weber 48 IDA carburettors
Power: approximately 380 bhp
Transmission: 5-speed manual transaxle
Drive: Rear-wheel drive
Layout: Mid-engine, longitudinal
Structure: Steel monocoque
Racing Weight: approximately 1000 kg
Top Speed: approximately 305 km/h

Engineering Significance

The Ford GT40 represented a major achievement in transatlantic motorsport engineering, combining American V8 power with British racing-car development and aerodynamic expertise.

Its low centre of gravity, mid-engine configuration and strong monocoque construction created a competitive platform capable of sustained high-speed endurance racing.

The GT40 programme also demonstrated the importance of continuous technical development, with successive versions incorporating improvements in engine performance, cooling, aerodynamics, braking and mechanical reliability.

The Mk I established the fundamental GT40 architecture and later achieved notable endurance racing success, including overall victories at Le Mans in 1968 and 1969 with revised 4.9-litre configurations.

Motorsport Heritage

The GT40 name became inseparable from Ford's historic rivalry with Ferrari during the 1960s.

The programme's success at Le Mans transformed Ford's international motorsport reputation and established the GT40 as one of the most recognizable racing cars in automotive history.

Its combination of American power, British engineering and unmistakable aerodynamic styling continues to represent one of the most celebrated chapters in endurance racing.

Collector's Appeal

Today, the Ford GT40 Mk I is regarded as one of the most significant and desirable historic sports racing cars.

Its distinctive proportions, powerful naturally aspirated V8, racing pedigree and connection to Ford's legendary Le Mans programme have secured its place among the great competition automobiles of the twentieth century.

The GT40 remains especially appealing to enthusiasts of classic endurance racing, American performance engineering and the golden age of international motorsport.

This poster is ideal for Ford enthusiasts, GT40 collectors, historic racing fans and admirers of classic automotive engineering. It works particularly well in a home, office, garage, workshop, showroom or automotive collection.

AI disclosure: This poster design was created using generative AI and subsequently reviewed and manually edited by Shmidt.Art.