Shelby - Ford GT MK IV Le Mans #4 Hardtop 1967, 1/18 scale diecast model car, Blue/w White stripes
In the 1967 edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Ford entered several Ford GT MK IV cars to compete against their rivals, including Ferrari. Car number 4, also known as chassis number J-6, was one of the Ford GT MK IV entries in the race.
Car number 4 was piloted by British drivers Brian Muir and Jackie Oliver. Muir was an experienced touring car and sports car racer, while Oliver was an up-and-coming talent in the world of motorsports.
The Ford GT MK IV was the latest evolution of Ford's GT40 program, designed to challenge Ferrari's dominance in endurance racing. The MK IV featured a powerful 7.0-liter V8 engine, advanced aerodynamics, and engineering innovations that improved performance and reliability.
During the 1967 Le Mans race, car number 4 experienced a challenging outing. The car encountered mechanical issues, including gearbox troubles and suspension problems, which forced it to spend considerable time in the pits for repairs. These setbacks significantly hampered the car's performance and chances of achieving a competitive result.
Despite the difficulties, Muir and Oliver displayed determination and perseverance. They continued to push the car and make progress whenever it was back on track, showcasing their skills and commitment to the race.
SC426BU Shelby - 1967 Ford GT MK IV Le Mans #4 Hardtop. 1:18 scale diecast collectible model car. This Ford GT Mark IV is a 9.25"L x 3.75"W x 3.25"H diecast metal car with openable doors, hood and trunk. PVC tires, detailed engine, interior and chassis. Mounted on a display platform. This 1967 Ford GT MK-IV is manufactured by Shelby Collectibles, Inc. Individually packed in a window box. Window Box size: 12.5"L x 5.75"W x 5"H. SC426BU is in BLUE color with White stripes.
1967 Ford GT40 Mk IV
Henry Ford II wanted the Ford Motor Company to race at Le Mans from the early 1960s. Winning races promoted car sales, as the racing circuit was followed by the younger crowd of car enthusiasts.
The GT-40 MK I first raced in May 1964 at Nurburgring and onto Le Mans, but the cars retired early due to mechanical problems. After a series of unfavorable results, Carroll Shelby was asked to join the program. As an accomplished race car driver the team manager, Shelby knew how to get results. The Shelby American team made its first entry at the 1965 Daytona 2000, but also had a series of setbacks in 1965. The experience gained from past difficulties enabled the 7.0-liter V-8-powered GT-40 MK II to dominate races in Riverside, Daytona, and Sebring which all lead to the grand finale at the grueling Le Mans 24 hour race in 1966, where the GT-40 swept the podium with a 1-2-3 finish.
