"The Ford GT40 is synonymous with Le Mans but was first seen at the Nürburgring in May 1964. The Mk. I was the original Ford GT40 but met little success in its initial tune for the 1964 and 1965 Le Mans races. The first success came after their demise at the Nassau Speed Weekend in November 1964 when the racing was handed over to Carrol Shelby. Shelby's team modified the Ford GT40 and the first win at Daytona February 1965 was achieved. 31 Mk. I examples were built at the Slough factory in ‘road’ trim, which differed little from the race versions. Wire wheels, carpet, ruched fabric map pockets in the doors and a cigarette lighter made up most of the changes.
Registered new on 1st December 2020, this Superb Mk. I Southern GT has been meticulously constructed in recent years and has covered less than 500 miles since the build. Finished in the classic GT40 livery of Midnight Blue coachwork with white stripes, this example looks superb! The interior too is very well presented and includes Luke five-point harness seatbelts, Smiths Instruments, a 12 Volt socket, air conditioning, immobiliser, and a heated windscreen. Also installed is the correct Mk. I GT40 style right hand gear change and detachable steering wheel. The chassis was professionally powder coated and fitted with a Ford 302 V8 engine stroked to 347 which is mated to a UN1 five-speed manual gearbox. AP Racing brake discs and calipers are fitted all round and are coupled with three spoke knock off spinner alloy wheels.
Our vendor reports that the GT40 is exceptionally fast and sounds fantastic when on song. The sizeable history file that accompanies this car includes all invoices from the build, many sundry bills, a spare key and the UK V5 registration document. Fitted with two uprated fuel tanks and new Avon tyres all-round, the GT40 is ready to be enjoyed by its new custodian. Not all GT40 replicas are created equally, this is an outstanding example both mechanically and cosmetically. Built to a very high standard, it is a faithful and accurate recreation that allows for track day and road use."