Three Ford GT40 MK II cars claimed the top three positions in the race, leaving their competitors behind with apparent ease. In the ensuing years, the American automaker secured four consecutive overall victories with its GTs, firmly establishing its dominance over previously formidable manufacturers like Porsche and Ferrari.
Yet, beneath this glorious triumph lay a bitter struggle for speed, reliability, and the flawless performance of the cars on the fast and treacherous Circuit de la Sarthe. Out of the 13 Ford GT40s entered, only three made it through in 1966. Strikingly, these were the very three cars that ultimately clinched the podium places, resembling a plot straight out of a motorsport thriller. In addition to the vehicles’ superiority, the misfortunes of the Ferrari team played into the hands of the GT drivers. Despite challenging wet conditions and poor visibility at night, all six drivers skillfully maneuvered their Ford GTs through the track until the early hours of the morning.
Approaching the final hours of the race, the three vehicles cautiously circled the course, minimizing the risk of technical malfunctions or driving errors. Furthermore, it was arranged with the race management that the three Ford GT40 MK II cars would cross the finish line in formation, emphasizing the historic triumph for the manufacturer once again. It was a sight that might never be witnessed again at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
The victorious car with the number two, steered by Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon, boasting a sleek black and white racing design, is faithfully reproduced in the highest quality as a 1:12 scale model by CMR. Similarly, the golden GT40 with the number five, in which Ronnie Bucknum and Dick Hutcherson secured third place, is meticulously crafted and available in top quality.
The light blue coupe with the number one, which secured second place at Le Mans behind its black counterpart, driven by Ken Miles and Denis Hulme, is meticulously replicated and obtainable in the finest quality in 1:12 scale from CMR. A special highlight is the weathered version of this GT. The resin model captures the essence of having raced down the Le Mans track itself. These Ford GT MK II models are an absolute essential for all enthusiasts.