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The extraordinary history of the Ford GT40 roadster
The upcoming Mecum auction in Indianapolis, scheduled from May 9-17, 2025, is set to feature a remarkable piece of automotive history: the 1965 Ford GT40 Roadster prototype, identified by chassis number GT/109. This car is not just another classic; it is one of only 12 prototypes produced between 1964 and 1965, and one of a mere five roadsters. Notably, GT/109 holds the distinction of being the only roadster to have participated in the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans, where it made its mark in the 1965 race.
Racing legacy and challenges
During its participation in the 1965 Le Mans, GT/109 was driven by the skilled duo of Maurice Trintignant and Guy Ligier. Unfortunately, the race ended prematurely for this prototype, as it retired after just 11 laps due to a gearbox failure. Afterward, the car was sent to Shelby American for a rebuild, but plans shifted, leading to a fascinating evolution. Instead of racing, GT/109 transformed into a development car for cutting-edge technologies, including Ford’s Weber-carburetor four-cam Indy motor and various engine and brake systems.
A journey through ownership
In 1968, Californian car customizer Dean Jeffries acquired the GT40 from Ford. The current owner, Dana Mecum, the founder of the Mecum Auctions, obtained the car from Jeffries’ son in 2013. Since then, it has been meticulously restored to its original Le Mans configuration, making it a stunning representation of racing history.
Unique specifications and features
This remarkable roadster now boasts a rebuilt HiPo 289 V-8 engine, complemented by a Ford/Shelby experimental intake manifold and the classic Shelby-designed “Bundle of Snakes” exhaust system. The 5-speed manual transmission has also been restored, ensuring that this piece of history is not only visually appealing but also mechanically sound.
Rarity and auction prospects
GT/109 is among the rare surviving roadster prototypes, with only one other known to exist: chassis number GT/108, which auctioned for an astounding $7,650,000 in 2019. Historically, many GT40 prototypes were utilized for testing and subsequently scrapped, making the survival of GT/109 even more remarkable. The first two prototypes, GT/101 and GT/102, were both destroyed after crash testing. Thus, the significance of GT/109 cannot be overstated.
The excitement of the Mecum auction
This will be the third attempt to auction GT/109 at Mecum, following two previous attempts in 2018 and 2020, where it was not sold. The anticipation surrounding this auction is palpable, as enthusiasts and collectors alike recognize the potential value and historical importance of this iconic car. As the date approaches, the excitement builds for what promises to be a significant event for automotive enthusiasts.
Why you should pay attention
For collectors and fans of automotive history, the opportunity to own a piece of the legendary Ford GT40 legacy is a moment not to be missed. Whether it’s the rich racing history, the unique specifications, or the exciting prospect of restoration, GT/109 represents a convergence of passion, engineering, and history. As the auction date nears, the spotlight will undoubtedly shine brightly on this remarkable roadster, making it a topic of conversation among enthusiasts.