2022 Ford

Where the Legend Began:

When most people think of the Gulf Ford GT40, they picture the iconic powder blue and orange cars that famously won Le Mans in 1968 and 1969. However, the story of one of motorsport's most recognisable liveries began with a very different shade of blue.

In 1966, Gulf Oil Vice President and motorsport enthusiast Grady Davis acquired a Ford GT40 MkI, chassis P/1049, which would go on to become the first Gulf-liveried GT40. Finished in Gulf Oil's original corporate colours of dark blue and orange for the 1967 season, the car was entered into the Daytona 24 Hours, where drivers Jacky Ickx and Dick Thompson achieved an impressive sixth overall and first in class.

This was before the arrival of the Gulf Mirage racing cars later in 1967, which introduced the now-famous powder blue and orange colour scheme. Those colours would subsequently become synonymous with the John Wyer GT40s and their historic Le Mans victories.

It is this earlier and often overlooked chapter of Gulf's racing history that inspired the livery of the GT40 we are delighted to offer for sale.

Finished in the original deep Gulf blue with contrasting orange detailing, this car pays tribute to the GT40 that started it all. A more understated and arguably more distinctive interpretation of the Gulf colours, with a wonderful historical connection to one of endurance racing's greatest stories.

GT40P/2432 – Specification & Features

This stunning Superformance GT40 MkI was built with a particular emphasis on retaining the clean and exceedingly beautiful silhouette of the original GT40. The bodywork has been purposefully kept free from additional racing embellishments, allowing the pure and iconic lines of the original design to take centre stage.

Power comes from an impressive Prestige Motorsport 427ci V8, featuring a stunning Borla 8-stack induction system and the iconic 'Bundle of Snakes' exhaust, delivering the performance, soundtrack and character expected of a GT40. An Accusump oil accumulator is also installed, providing a reserve of pressurised oil to help protect the engine during spirited driving.

The car sits on striking 15-inch orange BRM-style centre-lock wheels with Avon CR6ZZ tyres, with the ride complemented by Bilstein shock absorbers and H&R springs. Stopping power comes courtesy of Wilwood GT40-branded four-piston brake callipers all round.

Inside, the purposeful roll cage clad cockpit, features Alcantara-trimmed seats, Willans four-point harnesses and period-style pull-cord door releases. Air conditioning provides a welcome improvement in comfort over the original cars, while sill and footwell carpeting, an immobiliser, clear side repeaters and a recessed UK number plate complete the specification.

The result is a beautifully presented GT40 that combines the raw character and driving experience of the original with the benefits of modern construction and carefully considered upgrades.

With its historically significant dark Gulf blue livery, exceptional specification and wonderfully uncluttered appearance, GT40P/2432 represents a rare opportunity to acquire a particularly attractive example of this legendary sports car.

Price on Application.

For further information or to arrange a viewing, please contact Le Mans Coupes.

Sales Note:This vehicle is offered for sale on behalf of its current owner, with Le Mans Coupes acting solely as an introduction and viewing agent. A fee will be payable by both parties upon successful completion of the sale, with a full fee breakdown available upon application.