Photo: RacingIcons.com
Alan Mann was an important part of Ford’s racing activities in the 1960s. Alan Mann Racing was the driving force in the weight reduction efforts for the Ford GT40 program. Recognizing that less weight required less power, increased reliability, and improved braking and acceleration, Mann spearheaded a series of GT40s with aluminum replacing steel and other weight reductions. These GT40s carried chassis numbers assigned by Mann and are highly sought after by collectors today.
The 2024 Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix is an ideal platform to unveil this remarkable vehicle as they celebrate 60 years of the Ford GT40 at Pittsburgh International Race Complex on July 26-28, 2024. Downforce Motorsports invites automotive enthusiasts and collectors to witness the fusion of automotive history and cutting-edge craftsmanship at this prestigious event.
Renowned for their legacy of crafting iconic GT40s, Downforce Motorsports continues to honor motorsport legends, following the footsteps of their acclaimed Mario Andretti GT40 presented at SEMA 2022 and the revered Ken Miles ‘66 Daytona GT40 with this latest homage to the Alan Mann GT1.
“Crafting tributes that honor the legacy of motorsport icons is a passion at Downforce Motorsports,” stated Dan Long, President of Downforce Motorsports. The Alan Mann GT1 Superformance GT40 embodies our commitment to excellence and reverence for racing history; we are proud to be a part of that story.”
Setting precedents in the Superformance world, Downforce Motorsports continues its trailblazing journey. They notably made history as the first to integrate a Ford Performance Aluminator 5.2 XS engine into a Superformance GT40, solidifying their status as pioneers in this community.
For more details regarding the Downforce Motorsports heritage series, including the Alan Mann GT1, visit Heritage Series and follow Downforce Motorsports on all social media platforms.
60th GT40 Reunion during PVGP Historics Race Weekend on July 26-28, 2024 at Pitt Race
The legendary GT40 turns 60 this year, and a grand reunion is planned in conjunction with the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix’s Historic Races at Pittsburgh International Race Complex in Wampum, PA, July 26 through 28, 2024. It’s hard to believe that the GT40 has existed for 60 years. It seems not long ago that it was the first American car to win the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans. The Ford GT40 was first raced in May 1964 at Nürburgring. The mystique of this legendary car grows with time. This gathering will feature original GT40 race cars, recreations, and modern-day versions like the Ford GT. This is your chance to see them up close this summer in Pittsburgh.
The paddock and VDA at Pitt Race will be packed with GT40s and enthusiasts of this historic car. There will be track sessions on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with the GT40 Featured Race on Sunday afternoon. Schedule and Registration
About Downforce Motorsports
Downforce Motorsports is recognized for its dedication to crafting meticulously detailed heritage GT40s. As pioneers in the Superformance world, they continue to push boundaries by integrating innovative technology and honoring motorsport legends through their exceptional vehicles.
Contact: Dan Long President 803-900-0500
About the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix
Founded in 1983, the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix Motorsport Festival features two weekends of racing action. The first weekend is the PVGP Historics at Pittsburgh International Race Complex. The second weekend is racing through a 2.33-mile road course set on the streets of Schenley Park. Between our race weekends, we stage car shows, parties, road rallies, and a black tie formal. The PVGP is driven by 1,200 volunteers dedicated to staging the country’s largest and longest-running vintage race event. It is also a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization with a mission to provide residential care, treatment and support for people with autism and intellectual/developmental disabilities – donating $6.7 million.
Contact: Dan DelBianco 412 559-3500
