1962/1965
ENGINE AT THE REAR, FERRARI AT THE FRONT, AND AMERICA AT THE THROTTLE!

Ferrari is still monopolising the podium in 1962 and is becoming the most successful manufacturer but after four wins out of eight races, Olivier Gendebien declares his well deserved retirement.

A milestone event is marked by the final victory taken by a front-engine car. All cars to take the flag, except the victorious 330 TRI, are GTs.

Le Mans discovers the turbine in 1963 with a BRM/Rover which finishes even though this was its first appearance. After modification, Jacky Stewart and Graham Hill race this same car to tenth place in 1965.

The victory goes to Ferrari in 1963 but a Lola GT makes a notable entrance on Le Mans turf. We still don't know yet but this is the start of the Ford adventure at Le Mans.

The following year, the American manufacturer enters three works GT40s and two works Cobra Daytonas. In lieu of an absolute success, Phil Hill sets a new lap record and Gurney/Bondurant win the GT class.

Even though Ferrari takes their ninth victory in 1965, it was American since the 275 LM was from the team N.A.R.T. (North American Racing Team), a team founded by Luigi Chinetti, three time winner of the event.


 
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