1967 Ford GT40 MK IV - $1.3m high bid

1 of 12 GT40 Mk IV models produced. Chassis no. J-10. Driven in Can-Am competition. Meticulous 4-year restoration. 1967 Le Mans specifications. 427 CI OHV V-8 engine. Twin Holley 4-barrel carburetors. T-44 4-speed manual transmission. Red exterior with White stripes and correct Le Mans livery. Black interior. 4-wheel independent suspension. Coilover shocks. 4-wheel hydraulic ventilated disc brakes.

Despite huge and growing costs, Ford decided to continue development of the GT40 for the 1967 season. The J cars used honeycomb-sandwiched aluminum panels which were bonded together. The J car used this honeycomb aluminum to form a central tub chassis similar to the GT40’s. Lightweight and rigid, the new chassis saved considerable weight. The final specification for the car adhered to the Appendix J regulations for race car construction. The dozen J cars were produced by Ford's subsidiary Kar Kraft. With Shelby-American drivers Dan Gurney and A.J. Foyt, the Mk IV delivered a second consecutive victory for Ford at Le Mans in 1967. Ford's absolute dominance was a resounding double defeat of Ferrari.

In two races, Sebring and Le Mans, the Mk IV so completely dominated the competition that the FIA rendered it illegal for 1968.

J-10 is among the rarest racing prototypes and is a valuable artifact of Ford’s quest to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans and humiliate Enzo Ferrari.

Estimate is $2m to $2.2m at Mecum.