One to Buy: 1st of 31 ex-James Fielding 1966 Ford GT40 Mk1
/
When they FIA announced that a new regularity framework would come into effect for the 1966 season, Ford spotted an opportunity to recoup some cash from the expensive GT40 programme and also make the car eligible for a second category.
In addition to the seven-litre Mk2 Group 6 Prototype which would form the basis for the company’s primary target (victory Le Mans, Daytona and Sebring), the GT40 would be offered in 4.7-litre Mk1 trim to contest the Group 4 Sports category.
To qualify, at least 50 cars had to be built and, in order to broaden the GT40’s appeal, Ford Advanced Vehicles (FAV) developed a street version that featured a smattering of comfort equipment.
Just 31 examples of the road-equipped GT40 were ultimately produced, one of which will be going under the hammer at Mecum’s Kissimmee auction on January 18th.
Chassis P/1034 was the first GT40 road car to leave the FAV facility in Slough. Configured in the lovely colour scheme of Pine Green with black upholstery, it was completed in late 1965 and then delivered in March 1966 to James Fielding, the Chairman of engineering company Heenan & Froude. Among its various business activities, Heena & Froude manufactured the the engine dynamometers used by Ford and Shelby.
P/1031 was handed over by Ford Motor Company ambassador, Jackie Stewart, and remained with James Fielding until 1971 at which point he exchanged the GT40 for a Rolls-Royce with his neighbour, Paul Weldon.
Having been raced at various times between the 1970s and early 2000s, P/1031 has since been restored to its original configuration and is offered complete with a January 1966 dated engine that has accompanied the car throughout its life.
