Skip to main content

Take a Trip Through History in the Superformance Ford GT40 Recreation

The story of the Ford GT40 warrants far more than a few words, but I’ll use its history simply as context here.

The GT40 Mk I was built in an effort to trump Ferrari, who had been occupying podium positions at the 24 Hours of Le Mans for several years by the early 1960s. Sadly, each of the Lola Mk6-based vehicles constructed in 1964 failed to finish that year’s 24-hour race. It was then that Ford’s Le Mans team was handed over to Carroll Shelby. Under the guidance of the legendary driver and autophile, the GT40 Mk II was built with a 7.0-liter 427 cubic-inch V8, improved dynamics, and a whole lot of attitude. The cars went on to secure Ford’s first 1-2-3 finish at the 1966 Le Mans race and cement their places in motorsport history. Ford continued its domination at Le Mans in 1967, ’68, and ’69 with updated versions of the GT40.

Recommended Videos

Though Ford created seven Ford GT40 Mk III production cars, it was only in 2005 that the automaker introduced a more widely available model: the Ford GT. For this reason, road-going recreations of the Ford GT40 hold special places in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts. And among the specialty shops that take on the task of GT40 continuations, no one does it better than Superformance.

Considering the Ford GT/40 is one of my all-time favorite vehicles, getting the chance to drive a recreation is a dream come true. The Mk II body and components are engineered to the original car’s exact specifications, meaning two-thirds of the parts could be swapped with the 1966 car, including the chassis. This particular car has been provided by Hillbank Motorsports, a distributor of Superformance vehicles, and is owned and driven by the CEO’s son. Though its black and gold exterior is showroom quality, this example has spent far more time on racetracks across the U.S. than suburban streets.

Superformance is commissioned to build rolling chassis (without engines), but the finished cars are commonly equipped with small and big block V8’s. The car I would be driving uses a 427 cubic-inch Roush V8 like the race car, but has been retuned to produce 550 horsepower and 525 pound-feet of torque. Mind you, the classic four-speed manual transmission remains, which translates to some very tall gearing. To handle all that power, Superformance uses Bilstein coilovers with H&R Springs, a fully independent front and rear suspension, and a Wilwood big brake kit. Best of all, the vehicle weighs just 2,200 pounds.

Miles Branman
Miles Branman developed a passion for cars early on thanks to a neighbor’s collection of rare and exotic vehicles. What…
Mercedes-Benz celebrates its latest G-Wagen with an ’80s party like no other
Mercedes-Benz G-Class STRONGER THAN THE 1980s Edition
mercedes benzs celebrates its latest g wagen with an 80s party like no other g1

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, known for its iconic boxy shape and impressive off-road capabilities, first hit the streets in 1979 with the 280 GE model. It wasn't long before it became a favorite among everyone from the Kardashians to the Pope.

Mercedes has just dropped some exciting news with the new limited-edition G-Class, called the "Edition Stronger Than the 1980s." This ride pays tribute to the classic SUV style from the Eighties and is sure to turn heads. With just 460 units being made worldwide, this special G-Wagen embraces vintage colors, sleek black trim, and unique lighting, all while bringing back some serious nostalgia.

Read more
Firestone launches its latest Affinity AS Touring Tire for sedans and CUVs
Firestone Launches Affinity AS Touring Tire
firestone launches its latest affinity as touring tire for sedans and cuvs image hero  1

Firestone, a subsidiary of Bridgestone, is rolling out its latest touring tire, the Firestone Affinity AS, and it's all about making your drive smoother and more reliable. Designed for popular cars, this tire gives you the confidence and peace of mind you want when you're on the road.

The Affinity AS is built to go the distance, using a special tread compound that fights against uneven wear and tear. Plus, it comes with a solid warranty of up to 65,000 miles, so you know it’s made to last.

Read more
Fersa’s latest fuel efficient wheel hubs cut friction and logistical costs at the same time
Fersa's latest fuel efficient wheel hubs reduce friction and costs
fersas latest fuel efficient wheel hubs cut friction and logistical costs at the same time fersa ses  3

Although EVs seem like the inevitable future for logistical transport, until then technology to improve fossil-fuel vehicles is still big business. Fersa, a big player in the Spanish multinational scene, is shaking things up when it comes to fuel efficiency for industrial and commercial transport. They just hit a major milestone with a year of real-world testing for their Fuel Efficient (FE) Wheel Hub Assembly technology, and the results are pretty impressive: it saves at least 3% on fuel for trucks pulling trailers, which adds up to real savings for fleet operators everywhere.

Though 3% might not sound like a lot, it actually means about 1,800 liters of fuel saved each year for every truck, which cuts down on fuel costs significantly. That’s a big deal for any company running a fleet. The testing was independently backed by Maswer and TechnoPark MotorLand, covering over one million kilometers in various locations and road conditions, including some tough, dusty areas and flooded terrains.

Read more