[DeTomaso] NPC

[MikeLDrew at aol.com]

In a message dated 6/21/13 21 48 21, boyd411 at gmail.com writes:


> Mike,
> Was that Gurney engine ( with the webers and the 180 degree headers) a 
> 427?
> 
> 

>>>The '66 Mk II and 67 Mk IV used 427s, but after speeds were getting too 
high, and Ferrari was getting stomped, the ACO instituted a five-liter 
maximum displacement starting with the '68 season, instantly rendering Ford's 
cars obsolete.   They basically pulled out of endurance racing, but continued 
to support privateer efforts.   JWA updated the first-gen GT40 with better 
brakes, wider wheels and matching flared bodywork, and the latest five-liter 
(302) version of the 289 engine that had powered the '64-'65 cars.

So the '68-69 cars were basically already-obsolete chassis with minor 
updates, fitted with 302 engines with Gurney-Weslake aluminum heads and Webers.   
They were considered to be outsiders and dark horse candidates for the win, 
facing an awesome Porsche opposition (Ferrari wasn't really in contention), 
but thanks in large part to the excellent organization of the John Wyer 
team, the JW Fords prevailed in '68 and 69.   Porsche brought JW on board for 
the 1970 season and that started the Gulf Porsche juggernaut....

Mike