Few race cars have shaped performance car culture like the Ford GT40. Decades later, its influence still runs deep, and Cape Advanced Vehicles is using it to come up with something new.
Known for building high-quality GT40 recreations, the South African firm is now working on an all-new mid-engine supercar, simply called the “Special Project” as of now. It’s not a replica. But it doesn’t hide its inspiration either.
Early teasers reveal several clear pointers to the original. The most obvious is the set of four vertical taillights mounted on a machined aluminium structure, similar to the classic GT40 layout. There are also prominent rear deck air intakes, reminiscent of the Le Mans-winning Mk II. Even the light blue paint with a gold number hints at the iconic 1966 podium cars.
Underneath, things are more modern. The car is built around a carbon and aluminium monocoque, with integrated roof structures and bolt-on subframes at both ends. Power is expected to come from a V8 – around 500 hp in naturally aspirated form, or up to 800 hp with forced induction.
The official debut is set for June 18, marking 60 years since the GT40’s famous Le Mans victory.
It’s still early days, but the ingredients look right – lightweight construction, and a proper V8. If it delivers on its promise, this could be one of the interesting modern takes on the Ford GT40.
Source: @capeadvancedvehicles
