Photos: The Dean Lester Collection - Part 1

[Steve Holmes]

Thanks guys, glad you're enjoying them.

This is the Ford X1, a prototype GT40 built up by the McLaren team from one of two aluminium GT40 tubs. McLarens spent a lot of time getting as much weight out of the car as possible, eventually reducing weight by around 450 kg from a standard GT40. The X1 was fitted with a big block 427 and Hewland LG500, special long nose, different rear bodywork, and open top.

It was raced in various Group 7 events throughout 1965, but failed to score a race win, and was taken back by Ford and given to Shelby American, who had Kar-Kraft rebuild it to a heavier endurance racing guise, fitted with MkII nose and tail, although it retained the open top. With this car Ken Miles and Lloyd Ruby won the 1966 Sebring 12 Hours. I believe it was eventually crushed.