GT DEVELOPMENTS – FORD GTD 40 REPLICA – 1990
The Ford GTD 40 Replica, built by GT Developments (GTD), is a masterful recreation of the legendary Ford GT40, winner of four consecutive Le Mans 24 Hours (1966–1969).
GTD, a British manufacturer active between 1983 and 2004, became renowned for its precise and high-quality replicas of historic racing cars. The GTD40 was its flagship model, allowing the company to export worldwide, including to the United States and Japan.
Approximately 400 units were built in total, most powered by Ford V8 engines to match the spirit and performance of the original GT40.
History of this car
This specific example, chassis GTD 40 01085, was first registered in the United Kingdom on January 5th, 1990.
In 1991 it was exported to Japan, where it was registered in Sapporo under the plate SPS330YA40.
In July 2007, it was acquired by the Epping Motor Company, a historic British firm known since the 1960s for trading original Ford GT40s. Back in the UK, it was re-registered in January 2008 under plate G372 RHR.
That same year, an Italian collector and Gentleman Driver commissioned an inspection and arranged the importation of the car into Italy, where it was entrusted to a specialized racing workshop for conversion from road to competition specification.
Mechanical upgrades and race preparation
The transformation — requiring several years due to custom parts fabrication and sourcing from the U.S. — involved an investment of around €40,000.
Main upgrades included:
- Replacement of the Renault gearbox with a ZF racing transmission.
- New bell housing for improved drivetrain strength.
- Twin-choke carburetors and intake manifolds for enhanced throttle response.
- Racing exhaust manifolds and silencers, boosting power and efficiency.
- Upgraded braking system suitable for track use.
- Complete new suspension system, both front and rear, designed by Dallara, featuring wishbones and uniball joints for precision handling.
- Improved cooling system and radiator for sustained performance under load.
After completion, the car was used in select historic and hillclimb events, including the Cronoscalata del Monte Maddalena, Vernasca Silver Flag, Odolo Acciaio e Motori, and the Bergamo Historic Grand Prix.
Due to limited use, the owner eventually decided — reluctantly — to sell the car, which remains in excellent condition and fully operational.
Accessories and equipment
Included with the vehicle are the original Renault gearbox and titanium silenced exhausts, valued at approximately €6,000–7,000, allowing the car to be reverted to its road specification if desired.
Significance
This 1990 GTD 40 Replica is one of the most authentic recreations of the mythical Ford GT40, combining British craftsmanship, Italian race engineering, and documented provenance.
A truly collectible machine, suitable for historic motorsport events, track days, or as a centerpiece in any serious racing collection.
