Is this the car to set a new Ford auction record? RM Auctions certainly hopes so.
This rare example of a Ford GT40 Roadster Prototype, built by the marque in conjunction with Shelby American, will cross the block in Monterey, US on August 15/16.
We expect it to push the top mark close, such is its rarity and fame.
 Last offered for sale 20 years ago |
The world record for a Ford at auction stands at $11m, set in 2012 by a 1968 GT40 Gulf/Mirage that appeared in Steve McQueen film Le Mans.
Built in 1965, Chassis GT/108 is the earliest of just four GT40 Roadsters and one of only a handful of prototype GT40s in existence.
It was the result of a feud between Ford and Ferrari. The US marque had failed in an attempt to buy the Italian company, prompting Henry Ford II to attempt to beat the "prancing horse" on the racetrack.
"GT/108 is very special, as it is one of the early prototype cars," comments Shelby Myers, a car specialist at RM Auctions.
"It is the first roadster version and certainly one of the most important of the twelve prototype cars built, as it was Ford and Shelby's factory development car, driven by Carroll Shelby himself.
Racing legends Jim Clark and Ken Miles also got behind the wheel of the vehicle.
"Offered for the first time in 20 years, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the serious collector," adds Myers.
More than 100 classic cars will cross the block at the event, including a $4.8m-valued 1931 Bentley 8-Litre Sports Coupe Cabriolet, and a 1971 Lamborghini Miura SV, which has a $2.4m estimate.
We will bring you all the key previews right here so make sure you're a regular visitor over the coming months.
Have you seen our collection of motor racing collectibles for sale?
