New Superformance Model: GT40R Competition

Pathfinder Motorsports

Sponsoring Vendor
Hey Guys!

As long time participants on the GT40s.com website – and with Ron Earp’s approval – we’re very excited to both make our first post under this name, and more importantly, the first announcement of a new GT40 from Superformance: The GT40R Competition Model. The following is the press release that will be issued shortly – but you’re reading it here first:

INTRODUCING THE GT40R COMPETITION
Superformance LLC, in partnership with Pathfinder Motorsports LLC, today announced an authentic competition version of the iconic GT40® racing car that beat Ferrari and won at the Le Mans 24 Hours Race in 1966, 1968, and 1969. Named the GT40R, this exceptional racecar will be eligible for competition in several race series, and has already been approved for vintage racing in the Historic Sportscar Racing association (HSR).

Superformance and Pathfinder Motorsports LLC created the GT40R as an affordable and accurate 1960’s-era Le Mans-type racecar for use in vintage racing and track events, such as those sponsored by the National Auto Sport Association (NASA). While other Superformance GT40s are registered as street-legal road cars, the GT40R was designed for racing, and boasts supercar handling and acceleration, along with modern safety features such as a six-point roll-cage, FIA-approved fuel cells, fire suppression system, competition seat belts, and much more.

Superformance’s engineers went to great lengths to ensure authenticity and accuracy. So much so that the GT40R is licensed by Safir GT40 Spares LLC as a continuation model of the original 1965 GT40, and not only carries a continuation production number on its chassis and MSO with an ‘R’ suffix, but is also eligible for entry in Safir’s GT40 registry alongside the original racecars. In addition, the Superformance GT40 has been accepted for inclusion in the prestigious Shelby American Automobile Club (SAAC) registry, thereby substantially enhancing the car’s collector value.

This GT40R continuation model is built to exacting standards with over 85% of the rolling chassis's parts interchangeable with the original car, including the unique 'monocoque’-style chassis. The GT40R also boasts a pressed steel roof, a beautifully finished body, and is available in either MKI or MKII configurations – in right- or left-hand drive. However, it is expected that the right-hand drive will be most popular due to it being both more authentic and best suited for many US racetracks.

The GT40R is sold exclusively by Florida-based Pathfinder Motorsports LLC. Pathfinder’s CEO, Alan Petersen, said at today’s announcement, “After a tremendous investment of time and resources, we are very proud to announce the availability of the GT40R – the most exciting racecar to hit America’s race tracks in almost 40 years. We believe that this car will provide unbeatable performance and thrills to the legions of race enthusiasts who see the GT40 as the most exciting racecar of all time. With the original cars selling for millions of dollars, our goal is to provide the vintage car enthusiast and weekend racer a safe, exciting, and highly affordable racecar that is nothing less than a true GT40.”

Lance Stander, President of Superformance LLC, remarked, “The introduction of the GT40R is a significant milestone in our company’s history. We pride ourselves on the quality of our high-performance continuation vehicles and the GT40R is a great example of that commitment to excellence.” He went on to say, “The GT40R has been built with racing in mind, with such features as a competition roll-cage, racing suspension, period-correct aerodynamics, and even small details like windshield wipers that operate at speeds in excess of 150mph. And despite the small production numbers for a specialized vehicle like the GT40R, each car will be constructed by skilled artisans in the largest and most sophisticated factory of its kind, employing over 500 professionals. Those lucky enough to own the competition version of our GT40 will have a highly capable, historic-eligible racecar not unlike the original 1960’s World Champion racecar.”

The GT40R is already in production, with the first four racecars arriving in the United States in early April. They will be sold exclusively through Pathfinder Motorsports LLC in Melbourne, Florida and completed by Dennis Olthoff and Olthoff Racing in Mt. Ulla, North Carolina. GT40R’s will be on display at HSR and other motor racing events beginning in the Spring of 2009. For more information, please contact Alan Petersen at (321) 544-2320 or our website (which will be up soon): GT40Racing.com.


So there you have it! We know that there will be lots of questions – and for a while we’ll have an economy of answers – so please bear with us. But we couldn’t keep a lid on this much longer as word was starting to leak out. We’ve been working on the specifications and build details of the GT40R for a while (with some details subject to change as you can imagine) but we’re very excited about what we believe will be the ultimate track car at an unbeatable price. It would be hard for anyone to complete a GT40 roller for this price – let alone a factory-built, licensed continuation model!

Stay tuned to this forum as we will be announcing all additional details regarding the GT40R here first – after all, it’s been our hangout for a while, and much of our inspiration has come from our fellow forum members.

Thanks!

Alan Petersen
Pathfinder Motorsports LLC
GT40Racing.com

(T) 321.544.2320
(E) [email protected]

ALL PRICES, DETAILS, AND DATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
 

Pathfinder Motorsports

Sponsoring Vendor
GT40R Competition: Standard Features

GT40R Competition Standard Features

The GT40R Mk.I completed racecar will be provided with the following standard features (subject to change):
1. Authentic factory-built race-prepared GT40®
2. Virtually identical to the ‘60’s built cars
3. Historic Sportscar Racing (HSR) approved for historic racing
4. Licensed as a continuation model of the original GT40 by Safir GT40 Spares
5. Exclusive race model continuation VIN number: i.e., GT40P/2xxxR
6. Authentic right-hand drive (left-hand drive optional)
7. Authentic right hand sill rod gear shift w/ period correct hardware
8. Period correct and functional aerodynamics package:
a. Front canard wings
b. Hood wind diffusers
c. Rear fully-adjustable spoiler​
9. Genuine HOLMAN MOODY ‘GT40R Competition’ small-block V8 with projected specifications:
a. 410+ hp
b. 410+ lbs. torque
c. 7,000± rpm
d. 4-bolt main
e. Aluminum heads
f. Aluminum flywheel
g. Forged steel crank
h. Forged connecting rods
i. Holley 4-barrel (Weber Carbs or Weber-style EFI with open stacks optional)
j. ‘Turkey Pan’ carburetor shield – original style (w/ Holley carburetor)
k. Pump gas
l. Dyno sheet with each engine
m. Dry sump oil system (optional)
n. ROUSCH 351/427and FE engines available (option)​
10. ZF or ZFQ transmission (TBA)
11. Six-point factory installed welded-in roll-cage with side anti-intrusion bars
12. Fuel Cells – FIA FT3 Certified
13. Fire suppression system – FE36 – FIA Approved
14. Six-Point competition seatbelts – FIA Approved
15. OMP tow eyes (front & rear)
16. SCCA-approved emergency power cut-off switches (interior & exterior)
17. Megaphone racing exhausts
18. Race-grade wiper motor (works at speeds over 150mph)
19. Gulf-car style round driving/fog/turn signal P/1075-type lamps (Exclusive ‘R’ feature)
20. Gurney bubble
21. Authentic wood shift knob w/ GT40 emblem
22. Quick-release race steering wheel (D-shape, black suede & GT40 emblem)
23. Race-grade brake pads & fluids
24. Race-grade sway bars
25. Owner’s manual
26. Spare oil and fuel filters
27. A/C delete
28. Shelby registry as a GT40
29. Safir GT40 Registry
30. Special GT40R plaque
31. Special HSR dash plaque
32. Membership in HSR for one year​

Let me know if you have any questions!

Alan

Alan Petersen
Pathfinder Motorsports LLC
GT40Racing.com

(T) 321.544.2320
(E) [email protected]

ALL PRICES, DETAILS, AND DATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
 

Pathfinder Motorsports

Sponsoring Vendor
GT40R Competition: Prices

GT40R Competition: Prices

With the GT40R, we hope to improve on the customary buying experience. Rather than simply purchase a kit or roller, with a big question mark as to how much it will cost (and how long it will take) to complete your car, Pathfinder Motorsports will quote you a firm price on both the roller and the completion of your GT40®. And the completion process will be performed by an independent, expert GT40 racecar preparation shop to your specifications! We are still concluding discussions with our suppliers, so all prices are close but approximate. However, we anticipate that a completed standard GT40R, prepared by OLTHOFF RACING ‘ready to drive’, will sell for $119,500.

Introductory Price:
As a special introductory offer, the first three cars will be offered for an estimated $112,000, with the buyer’s choice of color. That’s complete with engine and transmission and everything listed in our ‘Standard Features’ post. And delivery would be in approx. 90 days from the time of order – ready to race in this Summer’s vintage race series! Call me for more details.

Alan

Alan Petersen
Pathfinder Motorsports LLC
GT40Racing.com

(T) 321.544.2320
(E) [email protected]

ALL PRICES, DETAILS, AND DATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
 

Pathfinder Motorsports

Sponsoring Vendor
GT40R Competition: Options

GT40R Competition: Options

The following installed options are available for the GT40R:
1. Plexiglas Le Mans bug hood deflector (as per P/1075)
2. Round pop-out aviation-style ventilation inlets (pair)
3. ‘Raydot’-style brushed aluminum side mirrors
4. Formula-style side mirrors
5. High performance velocity stack air cleaners
6. Sound deadening rear window
7. Sound deadening & heat insulation installed on engine bulkhead
8. Exhaust heat shield (transmission mounted)
9. Custom brake ducting w/ hoses and shields
10. Dry sump oil system
11. ROUSH 351/427and FE engines
12. Transmission cooler w/ pump, filter, and lines
13. Upgraded oil cooler w/ under-car ducting
14. Upgraded dual adjustable racing shocks
15. Mk.II body-style option
16. Wide-body option
17. Upgraded racing springs
18. Seats, original-style racing: custom, low profile, Nomex (for tall drivers)
19. Gulf racing, roundels, stripes, special colors, and other custom paint schemes
20. Street-legal factory-built mufflers (for race tracks with sound restrictions)
21. Hallibrand-style wheels (standard on Mk.II)
22. Le Mans-style anodized wheel spinners: Red – left side; Blue – right side
23. SCCA-approved locking wheel nuts (replaces spinners)
24. Powder coated wheels
25. Handheld-type fire extinguisher (mounted)
26. Shift light, F1 style
27. Original ‘Moto Lita’ GT40 steering wheel w/ GT40 emblem
28. Aluminum door roof retainers – aka ‘eyebrows’
29. Carpet, floor (driver and passenger side)
30. Engine hood gas struts
31. Avon vintage DoT-approved tires (Note: car is sold without tires)
32. Goodyear Bluedot non-DoT racing tires (Note: car is sold without tires)
33. Custom track preparation by Olthoff Racing​

There will be many more options available shortly! Feel free to give me a call if you have any questions.

Alan

Alan Petersen
Pathfinder Motorsports LLC
GT40Racing.com

(T) 321.544.2320
(E) [email protected]

ALL PRICES, DETAILS, AND DATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
 
I spoke to Alan this evening regarding the GT40R. He was extremely informative and straightforward. He has certainly covered all the bases in terms of producing a race ready GT40. I got the impression you'd be in good hands if you ordered one of his cars, especially with Olthoff behind the product. Also, you can't beat a 90 day delivery time for a spec car. I'm going to keep saving and hope to order one at some point soon. If anyone is considering such a car, you'd do yourself a favor to speak to Alan. He has already thought of all the small details in taking the SPF car that one step further.

Alan, keep up the good work and I look forward to the website going up.
 

Pathfinder Motorsports

Sponsoring Vendor
GT40R HSR Race Categorization

Hi Johan and Richard!

Historic Sportscar Racing (HSR) has placed the GT40R in several classes, depending on the series and whether it is in a MkI (with a Holman Moody 289/302 engine) or a MkII configuration (with a 427 FE engine), and whether or not you’re running treaded tires or slicks.

HSR ‘Dash Series’ Sprint Races
The Dash Series race events are all-out sprint races, and last eight to twelve laps, depending on the race venue. Providing spectacular wheel-to-wheel action, the Dash Series is quickly becoming a crowd favorite. The Dash Series features nine different groups of cars, grouped together by classes based on vintage period and engine displacement so as to provide extremely close competition. The groups vary from open-wheeled formula cars to early ‘60's vintage GT racers like the GT40.

There are several potential classes for the GT40R. The MkI could race in Group 5 Limited in a treaded class or Group 7 Unlimited for slick tires on cars up to 310ci. Here you would typically find our cars competing against GT350s, small-block Corvettes, Camaros, Tigers, and the like. Our MkIIs could compete in the Group 5 Unlimited or the Group 7 Unlimited, also in either treaded or slick tire categories, where you would face unlimited displacement big-block Corvettes, Camaros, and scarier stuff like the old CanAm sports racers.

HSR ROLEX Endurance Series
This is the class our cars were born to compete in. Many of the race cars entered in the HSR ROLEX Endurance Series were originally campaigned in legendary races like the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Daytona, and Sebring. To keep the spirit of endurance racing alive for these cars and their drivers and mechanics, ROLEX and HSR created the ROLEX Historic Endurance series. Representing the only true historic endurance series in the United States, the HSR ROLEX Endurance Series consists of three separate events: Vintage, Classic GT, and Historic. The cars competing in these three categories are classified based on the model year and type of race car. The HSR ROLEX Endurance Series features true multi-class racing, with 200mph GT40s and prototypes dicing with production-based Porsche 911s and 914s, just like they did at Le Mans! Depending on the track venue, these races last from one to three hours in length, and in some cases are held at night.

Our GT40 MKI would race in the Classic GT Class, requiring treaded tires, and would include GT2 cars, like the 911s, E-type Jags, and the 5-liter Mustangs and Camaros. In this category, the MkIIs would be in the GT1 Class, which allows unlimited engine size, but treaded tires. If your preference is to drive the GT40R with slick tires for maximum cornering speed and minimum track times, the MkI would be in the Historic/Slick Tire ‘H’ Class Limited category, with a ceiling displacement of 310ci on all engines. The MkIIs would compete in the Historic/Slick Tire Class ‘H’ Unlimited category against slick-shod Trans-Am cars, IMSA prototypes, and other nasty things. Mind you, the first GT40R has yet to arrive in the US, so there might be some changes, but these are a best guess. Stay tuned.

By the way, for those of you unfamiliar with HSR you owe it to yourself to check them out. We have worked closely with them since the inception of the GT40R, and their input has been instrumental in the creation of our first four cars. And due to the authenticity and construction quality of the Superformance ‘R’ chassis and components, coupled with their being true ‘Continuation Models’ and licensed by Safir GT40 Spares, we have the opportunity to have these cars compete in a historical environment ideal for our cars: Fierce but sane competition by like-minded drivers who want to have a great time on the track and also bring their cars home in one piece. HSR is a great bunch of folks all of whom are dedicated to getting great vintage racers out on the track with a only enough bureaucracy to see things done safely. Check them out at: Historic Sportscar Racing.

You’ll find a photo of the GT40R ‘test mule’ from this past weekend’s HSR race at Palm Beach International Raceway posted below. The car was really well received and we obtained some great data for dialing in the production cars. Feel free to call me if you have any questions!

Alan
 

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Randy V

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Nice article here:

GT40 ‘Ferrari killer’ returns as $100,000 kit | projo.com | The Providence Journal projoCars |

....... The rattling V-8 sends tremors throughout the entire car, and the racket would anger even the most forgiving of neighbors. There’s no interior sound deadening, and heat leaks into the cockpit from the engine. The only (very helpful) creature comfort is an air conditioner.

The driver’s seat is bolted down and reclined like a Barcalounger, so I have to stretch to reach the heavy clutch. The round steering wheel is tilted skyward like a bus, and getting the five-speed manual transmission into first and second is akin to fighting with an angry cat in a bag.

Still, it’s the most physical and visceral of driving experiences: I use my entire body as if handling a strong-willed horse. .........
 
Great to find a neighbor with similar interests. Group 5 HSR is a very appropriate series for the SP MK-I GT40R. Pop over to visit and peruse my RCR SL-C under construction.

Jack Molleur
 
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