The Legendary 1965 Ford GT40 Roadster Prototype: Chassis GT108

 The Ford GT40 stands as one of the most iconic racing cars in automotive history, born from Henry Ford II's determination to beat Ferrari at Le Mans after a failed takeover bid in the early 1960s. Among the early prototypes, chassis GT108 holds a special place as the first open-top roadster version, blending raw performance with an exhilarating open-air design.

Completed in March 1965 by Ford Advanced Vehicles in England, GT108 was one of only six GT40 roadsters ever built (and the first of four primary ones). It featured a steel monocoque chassis, a mid-mounted 289 cubic-inch V8 engine producing around 385 horsepower, and a distinctive redesigned nose with higher rear intakes compared to closed coupes. Painted in white with blue stripes, GT108 embodied Ford's vision of a potential production road car that could double as a track weapon.

Gt108 quickly became a development mule and promotional star. Delivered to Carroll Shelby's operation in the US, it was rigorously tested by legends like Ken Miles, who lapped Riverside International Raceway, and even Carroll Shelby himself, who drove it with Henry Ford II as a passenger on the tarmac at Los Angeles International Airport. The car served as the official test bed for the ZF five-speed transaxle, a critical component that would become standard on all subsequent GT40s due to its superior performance over earlier gearboxes.

In 1965, GT108 made high-profile appearances across America. It paced races, dazzled crowds at events like the Indianapolis 500 festivities, and turned heads at Watkins Glen during the United States Grand Prix weekend. Notably, Formula 1 World Champion Jim Clark—Ford's Lotus driver—took GT108 for hot laps, marking one of the rare times the Scottish ace piloted a GT40.

Though never raced competitively in period (serving mainly as an exhibition and test vehicle), GT108 contributed indirectly to Ford's historic 1-2-3 sweep at Le Mans in 1966. Its roadster configuration was ultimately shelved for production, as the closed coupe proved more aerodynamically efficient for endurance racing. After its active duty, GT108 was mothballed amid customs disputes but survived intact—unlike some prototypes destroyed over import issues.

Resurrected in the 1980s by owner George Sawyer with help from Kar Kraft technicians, GT108 received a rebuilt 289 engine and ZF transaxle. It has since enjoyed a vibrant vintage racing career, competing in events worldwide without major damage. Today, GT108 is celebrated as the most original surviving GT40 roadster, preserving its prototype features and storied provenance.

Enthusiasts revere GT108 for its rarity, historical significance, and pure driving appeal. In a lineage dominated by coupes that conquered Le Mans four years straight (1966-1969), this open-top pioneer reminds us of Ford's bold experimentation. Chassis GT108 isn't just a car—it's a rolling piece of motorsport legend, embodying the spirit of innovation that toppled Ferrari's dominance.