1965 Ford GT40 Roadster
1965 Ford GT40 Roadster
Brand
Ford
Year
1965
Country
United States
Generation
GT40
1965 Ford GT40 Roadster
Brand
Ford
Year
1965
Country
United States
Generation
GT40
About this car
Discover the history
The 1965 Ford GT40 Roadster, also known as GT/108, represents one of the rarest variants of the legendary GT40 series, with only four roadsters ever constructed. Designed as a prototype, the roadster featured subtle design differences compared to its coupe counterpart, including a higher rear intake and a refined nose. Powered by a Ford 289 cubic-inch V8 engine, it shared much of its mechanical DNA with the Shelby Cobra, including its all-steel chassis.
Developed by Ford Advanced Vehicles (FAV) for competition, the GT40 Roadster was initially intended for tight and demanding circuits like the Targa Florio. Bob Bondurant drove the chassis GT/111 at the 1965 Targa Florio, where it showed promising pace but ultimately crashed out before completing the race. Despite these early challenges, the roadster helped shape Ford’s approach to refining the GT40, which would go on to dominate endurance racing for the next several years. Another famous roadster, GT/108, played a significant role in testing and development, being driven by legendary figures like Ken Miles, Carroll Shelby, and Jim Clark. Notably, GT/108 became a demonstration vehicle for Ford’s board members and served as a pace car at various racing events, further solidifying its place in motorsport lore.
The GT40 Roadster’s racing legacy extends beyond the prototype phase, with some examples like GT/111 reappearing in modern-day classic racing events. After being restored to its former glory, the car has participated in high-profile historic racing, such as the Le Mans Classic, Spa 6 Hours, and the Goodwood Revival, where it has been campaigned with success.
Technically, the GT40 Roadster was a beast of its time, with a powerful engine capable of producing upwards of 425-450 horsepower. Its performance on track was enhanced by a ZF gearbox and innovative aerodynamics, making it a formidable contender despite its open-top design. With its sleek, low-slung profile—measuring only 40 inches in height—the GT40 Roadster combined cutting-edge engineering with an aggressive and iconic appearance. While it did not achieve the same level of fame as the GT40 coupé in competitive racing, it remains a symbol of Ford’s ambition during its fight against Ferrari in the 1960s. Today, the few surviving GT40 roadsters are highly prized collectors’ items, celebrated for their contribution to one of the most thrilling eras in motorsport history.
