This 1967 Mirage Ford M1 GT40 Coupe is the first of the lightweight Mirages built to compete in the World Sportscar Championship. It is the only one to survive in Mirage configuration. It is more aerodynamic than its predecessor’s featuring slimmer, smoother bodywork. Most notable is the narrow roofline. It is powered by a 7.0 liter Ford V8 generating 485 hp and 475 ft-lb of torque.
This car M10001, participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans but did not finish. The following year new engine limits prevented it from getting a second chance. It continued to compete in the other races from 1967 through 1969 establishing and impressive record of wins.
Design and Features
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Engine: The Mirage M1 GT40 was powered by a Ford V8 engine. The engine configuration varied, but it typically featured a 5.0-liter (302 cubic inch) V8, which was capable of producing around 400 horsepower. This provided the car with a powerful and competitive edge in racing.
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Chassis and Suspension: The Mirage M1 GT40 utilized a modified GT40 chassis, known for its lightweight and robust construction. The suspension system included independent suspension with wishbones, coil springs, and telescopic shock absorbers, allowing for superior handling and performance on the track.
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Bodywork: The Mirage M1 featured an aerodynamic coupe body designed by Len Bailey. The body was constructed using lightweight materials such as aluminum, which reduced weight and improved speed and handling. The car also featured a distinctive "Gulf" livery, with blue and orange colors, which became iconic in motorsport.
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Interior: The interior of the Mirage M1 was minimalistic, focused on functionality and driver needs during races. It included necessary instrumentation, racing seats, and harnesses to ensure driver safety and comfort during endurance events.
Historical Significance
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Racing Heritage: The Mirage M1 GT40 Coupe was developed by J.W. Automotive Engineering, led by John Wyer. The car was part of an effort to improve upon the existing Ford GT40 design and make it more competitive in endurance racing.
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Achievements: The Mirage M1 achieved notable success in racing. It won several races, including the prestigious 1000 km of Spa in 1967. The car's performance demonstrated the potential of the GT40 platform and contributed to its legacy.
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Evolution into GT40: The development and success of the Mirage M1 GT40 played a crucial role in the evolution of the Ford GT40 program. The lessons learned and improvements made on the Mirage M1 were incorporated into subsequent GT40 models, leading to greater success in races like the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Collectibility
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Rarity: The Mirage M1 GT40 is an extremely rare vehicle, with only a few units produced. Its rarity, combined with its historical significance and racing pedigree, makes it highly sought after by collectors and motorsport enthusiasts.
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Value: Due to its limited production and successful racing history, the Mirage M1 GT40 commands high prices in the collector car market. It is considered a valuable piece of motorsport history and is highly prized by those who can afford to acquire it.
Legacy
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Technical Innovation: The Mirage M1 GT40 Coupe introduced several technical innovations and improvements that influenced the design and performance of later GT40 models. It showcased the potential for lightweight materials and aerodynamic design in enhancing racing performance.
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Cultural Impact: The car's association with the iconic Gulf livery and its success in endurance racing have cemented its place in motorsport history. The Mirage M1 GT40 is often celebrated in classic car shows, exhibitions, and media dedicated to racing history.
You may purchase a print of the 1967 Mirage Ford M1 GT40 Coupe in our dElegance 2013 online gallery.
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