The Ford Mk II was the “next generation” of the Ford GT40. By early 1965 it was realized that the GT40 was reaching the end of its potential and that something new would have to be developed if Ford wanted to be competitive in world championship endurance racing.
Using a modified chassis and a 427 c.i. engine, the two Mk II prototypes underwent brief testing at Ford’s Dearborn and Romeo Proving Grounds before being shipped to Le Mans for the June 1965 24 Hour classic.
With a minimum of practice time and some instant modifications, the cars proved to be the fastest cars ever run at Le Mans up to that time.