1967 Ford GT40 Victory

Lore & Background

Dan Gurney and A. J. Foyt, driving a Ford Mk IV, won the race after leading from the second hour. This victory remains both the only all-American victory in Le Mans history — American drivers, team (Shelby-American Inc.), chassis constructor (Ford), engine manufacturer (Ford), and tires (Goodyear) — as well as the only victory of a car designed and built entirely (both chassis and engine) in the United States. Ferrari were second and third, and these top-three cars all broke the 5000 km mark in total distance covered for the first time. All overall records were broken – fastest, furthest, a new lap record, and biggest engine to win, along with a number of class records.

Reader's Guide

The Ford GT40 Mark IV was an updated version of the Ford J-Car, with an all-new chassis designed and built in the United States. The big-block 427 cu in (7-litre) Ford Galaxie-derived engine produced 530 bhp. Four cars were ready for Le Mans: two for Shelby American (Gurney/Foyt and McLaren/Donohue) and two for Holman & Moody (Andretti/Bianchi and Hulme/Ruby). Ford also entered three Mk IIB's and three GT40 Mk I entries. Ferrari fielded the 330 P4, with four built and all at Le Mans. Other notable entries included the Mirage M1, Lola T70 Mk3 GT, Chaparral 2F, and Porsche 910 and 907.

Did You Know?

• The winning Ford Mk IV had a roof bubble to accommodate Dan Gurney's height of over 190 cm.
• Ford had won the previous round at Sebring with Mario Andretti and Bruce McLaren driving the new Mk IV.
• Porsche introduced the new 907 with very long tails specifically for the Mulsanne Straight.