Rare car collectors, now’s your time to shine. U.K.-based PistonHeads has posted the Ford GT40 MK I press car from the late 1960s for sale. The GT40 press car is one of just 31 models built for American roadways.
While you won’t find this rare model at your local Ford dealer, you will find plenty of innovative GT models that have been influenced by the original GT40 MK I. Visit your local Ford dealer to test drive available models and get a feel for the history of the original Ford GT40 MK model.
Discover the History of the GT40 MK I
Rare car collectors will tell you there is something extraordinary about the GT40 models. Unique styling accents, a rich history, and unbelievable power make this one of the most highly desired rare cars on the market.
The GT40 made its mark in the mid-1960s when it came in first at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, an all-out endurance and stamina test for sports cars that tracks to see which vehicle can cover the most distance in a 24-hour racing period. Between 1966 and 1969, the GT40 claimed victory four times in a row, cementing a name for itself in the world of quality crafted sports cars.
In fact, the genesis of the GT40 was to simply put an end to Ferrari’s dominance of the racing track. When the GT40 proved its success, Ford would build 105 models. The GT40 was produced over a six-year period, and the model was broken down into four variations, MK I, II, III, and IV.
Who Owns the Ford GT40 MK I Press Car Today?
According to PistonHeads, the model they own was first commissioned by Ford U.S.A. and was loaned out to a Swiss company. The model sported its original Silver Blue paint job but was later repainted Borneo Green in preparation for display at the 1967 Geneva Motor Show.
Ford U.K. loaned the sports car to the British press, where it was admired in photoshoots and later showcased at the 1969 Geneva Motor Show. Two years later, the GT40 was sold off to a private collector. The collector would go on to repaint the MK I variation, race it, and then sell it again in 2007.
Own a Piece of Ford Automotive History
When it came into the hands of PistonHeads, the GT40 MK I press car would go on to be restored to its original factory condition. This included a full repaint to Silver Blue with white Ford graphics.
Powering the GT40 Mk I press car is a 4.7-liter V-8 that puts out a highly respected 380 hp and 312 ft-lbs of torque, a powerhouse for its time. The restoration also ensured that the model included carpet, fabric door pockets, wire wheels, and other details found only in the road-
specific models.
So what’s the cost to own a piece of automotive history? While PistonHeads does not list an official sale price, it does mark the MK I as being in “good condition.” Current pricing for models that are deemed “average” and even below that can run as high as $5.4 million.
While this price point might be out of range for many of us gearheads, it’s worth admiring as the MK I gets ready to change hands yet again. Even still, you don’t have to feel left out of the action. Visit your local Ford dealer to discover the latest models of the popular Ford GT.
Discover available variations and test drive these models at your local Ford dealer today.
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