Rare racers: Revs Institute in Naples unveils Ford GT40 exhibit to run through summer 2024
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The newest special exhibition at Revs Insitute in Naples has more horsepower than the Clydesdales, and then some.
Ford GT40s will take a stationary victory lap as Revs ― among the top car collections in the U.S. ― showcases the legacy of the world-famous racer and its journey to triumph at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
What to know about the exhibition.
What Ford GT40 racers will be on display at Revs Institute
The exhibit’s highlight is the 1967 Ford GT40 Mark III, one of only seven ever constructed, on loan from the Margie and Robert E. Petersen Collection at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles.
"Pony Pedigree offers a unique narrative, tracing the evolution from the Mustang I concept to the groundbreaking design of the GT40," Revs said in a news release announcing the exhibit.
"The GT40 represents a remarkable chapter in automotive excellence and historical significance," said Lauren Goodman, supervising producer of media and exhibitions at Revs Institute.
"Enthusiasts and newcomers are encouraged to explore this unique display and uncover the rich narratives behind these legendary vehicles.
What's the Ford v Ferrari connection
As the 2019 movie documented, "Ford v Ferrari" starred Matt Damon as automotive designer Carroll Shelby and Christian Bale portrayed British racer Ken Miles. The true story is about Ford's effort to build a car to defeat Ferrari at the 1966 Le Mans race.
The Ford GT40 enjoyed success, winning Le Mans in consecutive years in the late 1960s.
"We are thrilled to bring this story to life, highlighting the convergence of groundbreaking design and technological advancements with the compelling narrative behind each model," said Scott George, Revs curator of collections.
How long will the exhibit run
The cars will be displayed at Revs through July 2024.
What's the cost, how to visit
The purchase of a general admission ticket includes entry to this exhibit. Cost is $20 per person and $15 for students, active military members and educators. Children 8 years old and younger are free. Docents are available throughout the museum to answer any questions.
Admission by reservation only. Walk-up visitors will not be admitted. Admission is available every half-hour from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
What is the Revs Institute
The Revs Institute houses more than 100 cars — built between 1896 and 1995 — that show the evolution of the automobile. There's the French 1896 Panhard et Levassor Wagonette; the 1934 Chrysler Airflow Imperial CV‑8 Coupe, the first full-size U.S. production car to incorporate streamlining in its design to minimize air resistance; and the 1974 powder blue Jorgensen Eagle 7400 USAC that won the 1975 Indianapolis 500.
Revs was founded in 2008 by Miles Collier, whose grandfather was Barron Collier, a national advertising mogul and real estate developer who founded Collier County 100 years ago.
The museum also houses one of the largest specialized automotive libraries in the world.
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What else to know
The Revs Institute for Automotive Research, 2500 S. Horseshoe Drive, Naples, is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
Information: revsinstitute.org or 239-687-REVS
Dave Osborn is the regional features editor of the Naples Daily News and News-Press. Follow him on Instagram and Threads @lacrossewriter and on X (formerly Twitter) @NDN_dosborn.
This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: What to know about new Revs Institute Ford GT40 race car exhibit
