One-Owner Safir GT40 Mk V
Presentation
This Safir GT40 Mark V is one of 40 continuation examples built in Surrey, UK, by Safir Engineering Limited in partnership with J.W. Automotive Engineering and under agreement with Ford Motor Company between 1980 and 2000. It was ordered new by its late owner, Doug Kirk, a Pacific Northwest vintage racing stalwart and an aerospace engineer for Boeing, and was completed in 1986. Finished in blue, the car is powered by a 302ci Ford V8 linked with a ZF five-speed manual gearbox. Additional equipment includes “bundle of snakes” headers, quadruple carburetors, 15″ cast magnesium wheels, a fire suppression system, a Heuer stopwatch, and black cloth seats with ventilation grommets. Work in preparation for the sale involved replacing the tires, windshield, and fluids along with refinishing the wheels. This GT40 Mk I replica is now offered in Washington on dealer consignment at no reserve with spare parts, original correspondence, and a clean Montana title listing the car as a 1966 Ford UNK.
Development of a continuation variant of Ford’s four-time Le Mans-winning GT40 began when Safir Engineering founder Peter Thorp broached the idea with John Willment of J.W. Automotive Engineering (JWAE), at the time the owner of the GT40’s production rights. An agreement between Safir, JWAE, and Ford allowed production of a limited run of the Mark V to commence in 1980 and was followed by Safir’s acquisition of the GT40 trademark in 1985. The Mark V’s design was based on Ford’s GT40 Mark I, with updates made to the steel semi-monocoque chassis design including modified rust-proofing and revised suspension geometry.
The fiberglass bodywork is finished in blue with white stripes and #17 roundels. The car features side air intakes and covered headlights as well as dual exposed fuel filler caps and plexiglass side windows with pop-out vents. A replacement windshield was installed in 2026.
The 15″ cast magnesium wheels were refinished in 2026 and mounted with 215/60 front and 275/55 rear Avon tires. Stopping is provided by four-wheel disc brakes. Independent suspension incorporates adjustable coilovers.
The right-hand-drive cockpit features fixed-back bucket seats trimmed in black fabric upholstery with ventilation grommets and Willans harnesses. The shifter is mounted on the driver’s right, and the car features a fire suppression system as well as a fire extinguisher housed in the passenger footwell.
The three-spoke Moto-Lita steering wheel frames Smiths instrumentation including a central tachometer and gauges monitoring coolant pressure and oil temperature. Additional instruments to the driver’s left include a 200-mph speedometer and auxiliary gauges, while a Heuer stopwatch is positioned to the right. The five-digit odometer shows 14k miles.
Seller Video
Sold on 10/08/2026 for USD $229,500 to RUssellTi
Bids & Comments
nweuro (The Seller) 2636
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:47
@RUssellTi - Congratulations - will send you an email today to get to our next steps.
Thank you again to all the bids and comments, we enjoyed hearing the stories that the car and Doug shared with so many of you.
Thank you again to all the bids and comments, we enjoyed hearing the stories that the car and Doug shared with so many of you.
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:46
hmmmm
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:46
@hdub911 : Yes, I knew Doug, & visited him with Peter Thorp, just before he took delivery of this car. I did many miles in 1090. They are very well built. Not having FIA papers is not a disadvantage in the USA, but in Europe it is, so the market is a bit softer for them
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:46
wow. well bought. wow that just happened!!
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:46
Congrats, great buy !
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:45
The house in the background is as unbelievably nice as the car. It looks like its perched over lake Sammamish. If the house ever goes on the market please reach out to me. I live here locally in Redmond and it would be easy to contact me.
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:45
Nice purchase.
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:43
This isn't E-bay
RUssellTi
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:43
Bid in the amount of $229,500
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:42
I wouldn't dismiss the HTP so fast...
carsandpoodles
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:41
Bid in the amount of $228,267
nweuro (The Seller)
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:40
It comes with 8 spare wheels and and tires. And as has been pointed out to us numerous times - the spares alone are worth tens of thousands of dollars.
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:40
if i won this i gotta stop buying cars in a while, 4th in a month now
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:40
the Safir story/pedigree is quite important to many when comparing to superformance building cars for anyone that wants one. Lee Holman even was at odds w/ Safir fighting for the GT40 continuation crown in the early 90's. A Safir is a serious car.
twj010104
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:39
Bid in the amount of $227,188
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:38
Unbelievably low so far, especially with all the spares! Have you noted in the pictures, along with everything else that it's coming with 12 spare wheels and tires.
NW Euro, can you confirm?
NW Euro, can you confirm?
nweuro (The Seller)
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:37
@twj010104 - at least you are bidding while eating popcorn! Maybe larger increments will make this go quicker....
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:37
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:37
@Steve_h
I know, but most of them are street driven. I can't imagine the value of the Safir should be held down because someone can't race it in Europe. This is a one-owner car with a huge spares package that was obviously well-loved.
I know, but most of them are street driven. I can't imagine the value of the Safir should be held down because someone can't race it in Europe. This is a one-owner car with a huge spares package that was obviously well-loved.
carsandpoodles
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:37
Bid in the amount of $226,000
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:36
need popcorn refill
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:36
im tired
Legendcobra
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:35
Bid in the amount of $225,000
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:34
@hdub911 : You cannot get FIA papers for a Safir to compete in European FIA races. Superformance & Gelscoe cars are closer to the original chassis construction & therefore can be FIA homologated.
RUssellTi
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:34
Bid in the amount of $224,000
corvetteZL1
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:33
Bid in the amount of $223,000
Legendcobra
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:32
Bid in the amount of $222,000
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:31
@hdub911 your comment is spot on. the thing is seriously undervalued at this number and needs to really roll to mitigate the risk of the no reserve.
corvetteZL1
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:30
Bid in the amount of $221,000
twj010104
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:29
Bid in the amount of $219,188
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:28
To think this could be collectively valued lower than an inferior Superformance in a just-like-the-next-guy Gulf livery is criminal at best. What exactly are we agonizing over at this level?
corvetteZL1
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:27
Bid in the amount of $218,000
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:27
@vrgruver
Why is that a thing?
Why is that a thing?
cdinvestments
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:26
Bid in the amount of $215,000
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:25
I think this wouldn't be enough to last the rest of this auction. 6.5 gallons of popcorn.
https://nutzaboutpopcorn.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/P-XLarge-red-Container.jpg
https://nutzaboutpopcorn.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/P-XLarge-red-Container.jpg
Legendcobra
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:25
Bid in the amount of $212,188
twj010104
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:25
Bid in the amount of $211,188
nweuro (The Seller)
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:24
How many other one owner Safirs are left on the planet? Where will you find another? :)
corvetteZL1
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:23
Bid in the amount of $210,000
prototypefan
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:22
Bid in the amount of $206,000
corvetteZL1
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:20
Bid in the amount of $205,000
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:20
Bid in the amount of $200,000
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:20
My dream
cdinvestments
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:19
Bid in the amount of $199,000
corvetteZL1
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:19
Bid in the amount of $195,000
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:19
even if it IS nr it's still too low
Dtuyac
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:18
Bid in the amount of $193,000
prototypefan
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:17
Bid in the amount of $192,000
corvetteZL1
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:17
Bid in the amount of $191,000
cdinvestments
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:16
Bid in the amount of $190,000
Legendcobra
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:15
Bid in the amount of $188,000
corvetteZL1
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:15
Bid in the amount of $187,000
Dtuyac
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:12
Bid in the amount of $186,000
corvetteZL1
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:11
Bid in the amount of $182,000
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:08
Beautiful GT and great presentation.
GLWTA @seller 😎👍🏻🇺🇸
GLWTA @seller 😎👍🏻🇺🇸
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:07
At the current bid this is a bargain.
To many commitments otherwise I'd be bidding.
Best of luck.
Someone is going to be very happy!
To many commitments otherwise I'd be bidding.
Best of luck.
Someone is going to be very happy!
nweuro (The Seller)
Oct 8, 2026 · 17:03
Here is a short cell phone video from us picking up the car from VRM and driving it back to our showroom. Was a glorious 15 mile drive that day!
Oct 8, 2026 · 16:31
Whoever buy's Dong's GT-40 will never regret owning this piece of history.
I'm hoping that it still will vintage race, it's in its blood!!
Doug would be proud.
I'm hoping that it still will vintage race, it's in its blood!!
Doug would be proud.
Monzapolis
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 16:31
Bid in the amount of $181,000
Oct 8, 2026 · 16:13
@twj010104 @275GTB - As to why the 302cu in engine is in this car; 5 liters was the max allowed for a Group 4 sports cars (at least 50 manufactured by the factory) in 68 & 69, having been lowered from "unlimited" (thus Ford ran it's 427 previous to 1968) to reduce top speed on the Mulsanne straight from well over 200mph, for safety.
FIA rules for the various categories were quite fascinating and could change year to year as the organization tried to present the best racing. For instance though Fords won the race 66-69 inclusive, they were not the top category of car, which would be Group 6 Prototypes (the group num represented how far from factory stock any car was). Those prototypes qualified ahead of the Fords. But for 24 hours you have to endure, and the faster cars broke while the Fords did not.
Pardon in advance where I have details a bit off, I am working from memory.
FIA rules for the various categories were quite fascinating and could change year to year as the organization tried to present the best racing. For instance though Fords won the race 66-69 inclusive, they were not the top category of car, which would be Group 6 Prototypes (the group num represented how far from factory stock any car was). Those prototypes qualified ahead of the Fords. But for 24 hours you have to endure, and the faster cars broke while the Fords did not.
Pardon in advance where I have details a bit off, I am working from memory.
Oct 8, 2026 · 16:04
I've got a Beck 904, would love to make a trade. I love the GT40s
Oct 8, 2026 · 15:58
The only way to have one of these, RHD and sill shifter. Definitely on my bucket list of cars to have one day. Ideally a Ken Miles MKII.
corvetteZL1
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 15:53
Bid in the amount of $176,000
Oct 8, 2026 · 15:31
IMO, it saddens me to see that "Made in America" is only #7 in today's Daily Mail.
At No Reserve:
- It'll be an exciting ending. @Seller, I wish you many 2-minute resets.
- She will sell. Fortunate will her new owner.
GLWTA
At No Reserve:
- It'll be an exciting ending. @Seller, I wish you many 2-minute resets.
- She will sell. Fortunate will her new owner.
GLWTA
Oct 8, 2026 · 15:24
That's a lot of ventilation grommets!
Oct 8, 2026 · 14:56
@Capt.Yossarian The pipes are eight individual pieces that fit into two four port collectors. Remove the collectors from the pipes, and take each pipe from the head one at a time.
Oct 8, 2026 · 14:55
Just read thru the comments. Wished I'd had the pleasure of knowing the owner. Quite the fellow. Must be dusty here in the cabin today.
"On the button" and it's an amazing button...
May it bring everything to everyone involved.
"On the button" and it's an amazing button...
May it bring everything to everyone involved.
nweuro (The Seller)
Oct 8, 2026 · 14:43
Short of cutting and pasting our original opening comment at the bottom of this comment feed (please go read it if you are a serious bidder today), just wanted to thank everyone for all of the conversation. Doug was a great friend to many in the area, and this GT40 was his absolute pride and joy. We are honored to be assisting in the sale of it, and truly hope it finds a home where it will continue to be enjoyed for many years to come.
nweuro (The Seller)
Oct 8, 2026 · 14:40
@Nimbostratus - Yes, that was one of my fun memories of Doug as well, the Rocket Scientist business cards from Boeing.
nweuro (The Seller)
Oct 8, 2026 · 14:37
Thanks for the bids and comments to date -- just a few reminders so you can see that checkered flag first at the finish line:
Please refresh your browser before the end of the auction. We have seen bidders miss out on a car due to the auction clock and your local browser not being in sync. The clock resets for every bid under 2 minutes to give everyone a fair chance at winning the auction – no need to wait for the final second!
We are happy to help with shipping, we have a network of partners to make it easy for you – domestic or international.
Your winning bid is a commitment to purchase – please have your funding in place before bidding, not subject to approvals. We have contacts in the lending space if you need an introduction.
WA State Residents -- Sales tax is collected on all vehicle sales to Washington State residents. Please note that Washington State sales tax is collected according to Washington State Department of Revenue requirements at our Issaquah sales facility address, not your personal residence (or business) address. Washington State residents will also pay Washington State automobile registration and title application fees.
We DO NOT charge a documentation fee on our vehicle sales – we always thought those were uncool.
We will watch the comment section and our emails for the remainder of the auction, so please feel free reach out via the “Contact Seller” button up top.
Please refresh your browser before the end of the auction. We have seen bidders miss out on a car due to the auction clock and your local browser not being in sync. The clock resets for every bid under 2 minutes to give everyone a fair chance at winning the auction – no need to wait for the final second!
We are happy to help with shipping, we have a network of partners to make it easy for you – domestic or international.
Your winning bid is a commitment to purchase – please have your funding in place before bidding, not subject to approvals. We have contacts in the lending space if you need an introduction.
WA State Residents -- Sales tax is collected on all vehicle sales to Washington State residents. Please note that Washington State sales tax is collected according to Washington State Department of Revenue requirements at our Issaquah sales facility address, not your personal residence (or business) address. Washington State residents will also pay Washington State automobile registration and title application fees.
We DO NOT charge a documentation fee on our vehicle sales – we always thought those were uncool.
We will watch the comment section and our emails for the remainder of the auction, so please feel free reach out via the “Contact Seller” button up top.
cdinvestments
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 13:35
Bid in the amount of $175,000
Oct 8, 2026 · 13:31
I had the joy of being taken for a few laps around Pacific Raceways years ago by Doug. What a thrill!
A fabulous car and a wonderful guy. His Boeing business card read “Rocket Scientist!”
RIP and GLWA.
A fabulous car and a wonderful guy. His Boeing business card read “Rocket Scientist!”
RIP and GLWA.
carsandpoodles
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 13:21
Bid in the amount of $167,167
Oct 8, 2026 · 13:08
Wow, nice build. Probably a stupid question, but how do those criss-cross snake exhausts come off when the engine comes out? Lover of all GT40s.
Dtuyac
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 12:36
Bid in the amount of $166,000
cdinvestments
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 12:28
Bid in the amount of $165,000
Oct 8, 2026 · 10:00
@twj010104 1968 and 1969 Mk1 GT40s raced with a 302. Winning Le Mans outright both years, Sebring and winning the World Sportscar Championship.
Oct 8, 2026 · 06:41
Why the 302 engine though, out of curiosity, granted im no.expert in this but seems like an odd choice
r32fan
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 05:56
Bid in the amount of $162,222
Oct 8, 2026 · 05:56
Do you have a PoV driving video?
b4zgermans
Bid
Oct 8, 2026 · 02:27
Bid in the amount of $160,040
Oct 8, 2026 · 00:37
@nweuro, beautiful car but the landscape in photos is over the top.
Oct 7, 2026 · 23:04
I have raced against this car at Pacific Raceways in vintage racing. It was fun to play with. It would out horse me on the straights, but I would get him in the corners.
Oct 7, 2026 · 22:38
Gorgeous car, maybe even more gorgeous property and wonderful photos. GLWS!
Oct 7, 2026 · 19:39
Hope all is well. Are the wheels part of the sale or are they available for separate purchase? Thank You.
Oct 7, 2026 · 18:57
@67bullitt, LOL, I try not to watch that garbage as it hurts my happy thoughts, like this beautiful Safir GT 40. Should be a fun one to watch tomorrow. These don’t come around too often. 3500 hot rods next 3 days on the Eastern shore. 😊
nweuro (The Seller)
Oct 7, 2026 · 15:53
@Monzapolis - The car is of course inherently a race car in terms of ergonomics, outward visibility, and creature comforts! However, on the ground clearance side, we have a challenging driveway here at our shop, and the GT40 has more clearance than a modern Porsche GT3RS if that helps with some perspective. We drove it all over town, but did not go the grocery store with the speed bumps yet to be fair!
nweuro (The Seller)
Oct 7, 2026 · 15:51
@NaturopathicDoctor — While we have an extensive set of spares, boxes, file folders, and binders, the exact engine specification is a bit elusive in the paperwork. I am attaching photos the most recent engine service work invoice we can find from Bliss, along with Doug’s personal notes on the engine and transmission build specifics.
From what we see here it shows 10.5:1 compression ratio, which hypothetically may support pump gas. The car in our care has only been fed race fuel, and of course it ran race fuel on the track when Doug used it there.
The engine and transmission from our perspective seems healthy - it does not exhibit any smoke or leaks. It runs strong and shifts smoothly (albeit with a heavy clutch) we have done many miles in it around town to take it to and pick it up from shops, photography, and video work. We had a full fluid and filter service done with VRM this summer, along with the new tires, refinished wheels, etc.
From what we see here it shows 10.5:1 compression ratio, which hypothetically may support pump gas. The car in our care has only been fed race fuel, and of course it ran race fuel on the track when Doug used it there.
The engine and transmission from our perspective seems healthy - it does not exhibit any smoke or leaks. It runs strong and shifts smoothly (albeit with a heavy clutch) we have done many miles in it around town to take it to and pick it up from shops, photography, and video work. We had a full fluid and filter service done with VRM this summer, along with the new tires, refinished wheels, etc.
Oct 7, 2026 · 15:40
Is the car suitable for road use or is that not realistic; what is the ground clearance? Thank you.
Oct 7, 2026 · 05:43
@seller
Given the car has had sone track time, what is the health of the engine and drivetrain? Any overheating or smoking? Has it been on a dyno? What fuel does it require?
Thank you.
Given the car has had sone track time, what is the health of the engine and drivetrain? Any overheating or smoking? Has it been on a dyno? What fuel does it require?
Thank you.
Oct 7, 2026 · 00:06
Great car, great guy. I remember one Sovren 4th of July race. My air-cooled Lola FSV in it's entirety was worth a valve on any of the others in the group. A Ferrari 512, McRae F5000, a 935 or two, some cool Can-Am cars, a Lotus Tasman, on and on, plus Doug K in this Gt40. My car was fine in the curves, brakes, etc but about 80% down the front straight-I was a bus in the slow lane. The passing speeds at turn 1 seems to have a delta of 50+ mph. Doug never strayed toward the front, but I remember him blowing by me at turn 1. The easing way back so could railing around T-2. I was both giggling and hyperventilating at the same time! I now own an early Gt40 replica. Mid 80's build, right hand drive, right had shift, ZF box, lots of cool stuff and my goal/dream of having a GT40 of any type started on that day at Pacific Raceways. GLWTA.
Oct 6, 2026 · 23:49
@1967Shelby…Turned on the tube..
CNN just happened to be on when I was lighting the fire…Cali and San Diego matter…
Head shaker…
Cool nights in Eastern Canada tonight..
Proud to share a border with Free and Brave!
Hope You are doing fine !
CNN just happened to be on when I was lighting the fire…Cali and San Diego matter…
Head shaker…
Cool nights in Eastern Canada tonight..
Proud to share a border with Free and Brave!
Hope You are doing fine !
Oct 6, 2026 · 20:59
NorCalOllie MkVs are hot under certain driving conditions. Hotter than a polar bear at a cookout. Hotter than a half-f...ed fox in a forest fire. The MkVs are more race cars than street cars They perform wonderfully in each situation in accordance with the conditions at present in the situation at that time. On a race circuit in summer in one's driving suit, one expects to be hot. On a street in the fall one expects to be comfortable. On a street in the summer in a city, it's the polar bear...
My car is MkV GT40-p-1136, the car that started the entire Safir vs. Ford saga of the early 2000s as the original owner of Safir GT40 Spares,Limited. Ass Doug Kirk's car being auctioned here, I have owned #1136 since it's inception, and the cars are truly unique GT40s.
My car is MkV GT40-p-1136, the car that started the entire Safir vs. Ford saga of the early 2000s as the original owner of Safir GT40 Spares,Limited. Ass Doug Kirk's car being auctioned here, I have owned #1136 since it's inception, and the cars are truly unique GT40s.
Oct 6, 2026 · 19:52
I've wanted one of these cars my whole life. Had a Big Block 428 SuperFormance Cobra. But this look way more fun. Drivers, I gotta know, is this car hot as heck to drive? Reminds me of my DeLorean. If the A/C went out (which happened a lot) I'd be in bumper to bumper traffic on the freeway with the door swung open so I didn't die of heat stroke. Lol
Oct 5, 2026 · 23:05
Here are couple quick shots of this car down the street from Doug's house back in the day. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LA6gBF9iSw
Oct 4, 2026 · 19:47
I drove 1119 way back in 2014 in UK, great, but door leaked from top in rain when at speed, due to wind suction pressure. Need to check this out.
Oct 4, 2026 · 16:56
Is it real, is it not real? Well it's so real I can't afford it! If I could this is the way I'd want it RHD, small block as close as possible to the way they were raced in the '60s.
Oct 4, 2026 · 13:05
Gorgeous and Timeless…
If parked in My stable,
I could care less about Anyone’s opinion 🤠
If parked in My stable,
I could care less about Anyone’s opinion 🤠
Oct 4, 2026 · 01:42
Bid in the amount of $150,000
PKelec
Bid
Oct 4, 2026 · 01:31
Bid in the amount of $145,000
Oct 3, 2026 · 20:28
Bid in the amount of $140,000
Oct 3, 2026 · 14:41
Well then. It is settled. It has been settled for years. The GT40 Mk V is a real GT40 built at a later date. If the 1960’s builds are often sold over $10 million what should these cars be worth? Five years ago you could have bought a 60’s built car for $2 or $3 million. Not in today’s market. These Mk V cars will be worth seven figures shortly if not later this week!
nweuro (The Seller)
Oct 2, 2026 · 17:12
A few track photos that were posted on social media on a tribute to Doug earlier this year. All rights to the respective photographers.
nweuro (The Seller)
Oct 2, 2026 · 16:51
This next batch of photos is a sampling of the many binders, notebooks, and boxes of paperwork that come with the car, including some great period pieces. Doug documented things in notebooks as he built, maintained, and raced the car. He also maintained a diary (all typed) of the entire ordering process, engagement with other Safir and GT40 owners as he learned and decided certain components and kept an eye on authenticity. I am guessing the documentation here exceeds well over 500 pages, way beyond what we have the capacity to scan! As always, we welcome in person inspections as needed.
Doug did 99% of all of his maintenance and build work, so most of the invoices are simply for parts orders, and lots of written chronological notes about the maintenance, changes, etc.
Doug did 99% of all of his maintenance and build work, so most of the invoices are simply for parts orders, and lots of written chronological notes about the maintenance, changes, etc.
Oct 2, 2026 · 12:23
Steve H You are correct, at present the Mk V is not certified to acquire FIA papers. Several changes were made in the manufacturer of the Mk V, changes made by the original designer, Len Bailey as he worked with Peter Thorp/Safir and John Wilment/JW Automotive Engineering on Safir's MkV project. The changes that Len Bailey made allowed for a simplified construction while maintaining the original specifications. Essentially Bailey incorporated much simpler straight bent panel components as opposed to the complicated Abbey Panels stampings. The result was a lighter chassis which retained the 12,500 ft-#/° torsional rigidity as the period cars. Bailey also incorporated the front suspension modifications that he made to the Alan Mann cars in period, modifications that limit bump steer under braking. MkVs with the lighter and improved chassis design, and lighter carbon/Kevlar bodies are theoretically faster than period cars.
Oct 2, 2026 · 08:13
@austenhealer : As far as I know you cannot get FIA papers for a SAFIR GT40. Only Superformance & Gelscoe chassis cars can get them. There were too many changes with the suspension/chassis construction that were not exactly like the originals.
nweuro (The Seller)
Oct 1, 2026 · 22:48
Wanted to add the Shelby Registry pages here for reference on Safir and the GT40 - it truly is a fascinating read, see attached images here.
Oct 1, 2026 · 18:32
Could this car get a FIA technical passport for pre 67 racing in the UK??
Oct 1, 2026 · 17:42
Firstly, beautiful car. Always wanted a Safir, but ended up with a Superformance Mk I. That said, it has always been kind of strange that the Mk V is considered a "real" GT by many historians as well as the Shelby Registrar when the tub is not even close to the original cars just like many other aspects of them. Incidentally, the Superformance GT40 IS built under license to Safir and also a REAL GT40 with an incredibly accurate tub and suspension. Why the Shelby Registrar refuses to acknowledge this is puzzling. The Mark IV cars are not GT40s nor were they ever considered as such. GLWTA.
Oct 1, 2026 · 17:40
Firstly, beautiful car. Always wanted a Safir, but ended up with a Superformance Mk I. That said, it has always been kind of strange that the Mk V is considered a "real" GT by many historians as well as the Shelby Registrar when the tub is not even close to the original cars nor are many other aspects of them. Incidentally, the Superformance GT40 IS built under license to Safir and also a REAL GT40 with an incredibly accurate tub and suspension. Why the Shelby Registrar refuses to acknowledge this is puzzling. The Mark IV cars are not GT40s nor were they ever considered as such.
Oct 1, 2026 · 16:33
“There are collector automobiles, there are racing legends, and then there are the handful of machines that permanently altered the course of motorsport history. The Ford GT40 belongs firmly in the latter category.“
That statement says it all!
Additional historical details on this GT40 Mk V:
Safir ultimately secured ownership of the GT40 trademark itself, making the Mk V the only continuation automobile built under the official GT40 name. This distinction places the Safir Mk V in an entirely different category from the numerous GT40-inspired replicas that followed. It is the recognized continuation of the GT40 lineage, produced with factory authorization and engineered to preserve the character and construction of the Le Mans-winning cars.
The Shelby American World Registry book dedicates 10 pages to the history of Safir and the 40 continuation cars that were manufactured. Of important note, in that Registry synopsis, GT40 historian Ronnie Spain summed up his detailed dissertation on the Safir MK V by stating simply – “The Mk V is a GT40.”
Photos of this exciting story are in the Registry at the bottom in the gallery in the link below:
https://www.nweuro.com/1966-ford-gt40-safir
A bit more information on the GT40:
GT40 SAFIR
GT40 cars are licensed by SAFIR GT40 SPARES and built by Superformance. Currently over 300 genuine GT40'S have been produced since the year 2000.
The GT40 today is built to exacting standards - in fact over two thirds of the rolling chassis' parts are interchangeable with that of an original car, including the 'monocoque" style chassis.
SAFIR GT40 RECAP
Prototypes: The first serial numbers GT 101 forward to GT 112 were prototype Ford GTs.
Mark I GT40 and Mark II GT40 production: started with serial number GT40P-1000 and went to GT40P-1086.
Mark III production GT40s started at GT40P-1101 and continued through to GT40P-1114. Later in this series the cars were built as Mark I.
Mark IV, built in America, the J Car utilized different numbers beginning at J-1.
Mark V production GT40s started at GT40P-1090 to GT40P-1100, GT40P-1115 to GT40P-1125, GT40P-1128 to GT40P-1145. Total, forty cars.
Note: Initially the GT40 Mark V production was to be 25 cars. This subsequently changed to 40 cars.
The first GT40 Mark V was delivered April 1981, thirty nine cars delivered by September 1994. The last and fortieth car delivered September 2000.
Additional information available here: https://gt40.com
That statement says it all!
Additional historical details on this GT40 Mk V:
Safir ultimately secured ownership of the GT40 trademark itself, making the Mk V the only continuation automobile built under the official GT40 name. This distinction places the Safir Mk V in an entirely different category from the numerous GT40-inspired replicas that followed. It is the recognized continuation of the GT40 lineage, produced with factory authorization and engineered to preserve the character and construction of the Le Mans-winning cars.
The Shelby American World Registry book dedicates 10 pages to the history of Safir and the 40 continuation cars that were manufactured. Of important note, in that Registry synopsis, GT40 historian Ronnie Spain summed up his detailed dissertation on the Safir MK V by stating simply – “The Mk V is a GT40.”
Photos of this exciting story are in the Registry at the bottom in the gallery in the link below:
https://www.nweuro.com/1966-ford-gt40-safir
A bit more information on the GT40:
GT40 SAFIR
GT40 cars are licensed by SAFIR GT40 SPARES and built by Superformance. Currently over 300 genuine GT40'S have been produced since the year 2000.
The GT40 today is built to exacting standards - in fact over two thirds of the rolling chassis' parts are interchangeable with that of an original car, including the 'monocoque" style chassis.
SAFIR GT40 RECAP
Prototypes: The first serial numbers GT 101 forward to GT 112 were prototype Ford GTs.
Mark I GT40 and Mark II GT40 production: started with serial number GT40P-1000 and went to GT40P-1086.
Mark III production GT40s started at GT40P-1101 and continued through to GT40P-1114. Later in this series the cars were built as Mark I.
Mark IV, built in America, the J Car utilized different numbers beginning at J-1.
Mark V production GT40s started at GT40P-1090 to GT40P-1100, GT40P-1115 to GT40P-1125, GT40P-1128 to GT40P-1145. Total, forty cars.
Note: Initially the GT40 Mark V production was to be 25 cars. This subsequently changed to 40 cars.
The first GT40 Mark V was delivered April 1981, thirty nine cars delivered by September 1994. The last and fortieth car delivered September 2000.
Additional information available here: https://gt40.com
nweuro (The Seller)
Oct 1, 2026 · 02:32
@Leiniesbuddy - The car is legal and registered on Montana title and has been driven on the roads for 40 years. It has lights and signals, but windshield wipers are not currently fitted. It's a little racy (loud) with the current pipes, but one could fit the mufflers to tone it down if desired. However to clarify that, the car is not loud inside, you do not need earplugs to drive it at all - but it has a good bark outside to entertain pedestrians!
Oct 1, 2026 · 01:55
@Leiniesbuddy. It has Montana plates on it....
Sep 30, 2026 · 21:20
@nweuro, can this car be driven legally on the road?
BossCars302
Bid
Sep 30, 2026 · 15:25
Bid in the amount of $132,500
Atilla39
Bid
Sep 30, 2026 · 02:28
Bid in the amount of $127,555
Sep 30, 2026 · 00:51
Did I miss the video?
BossCars302
Bid
Sep 29, 2026 · 16:46
Bid in the amount of $126,500
gardner5
Bid
Sep 29, 2026 · 10:31
Bid in the amount of $102,040
byronrb
Bid
Sep 29, 2026 · 08:04
Bid in the amount of $101,000
Sep 28, 2026 · 22:23
@brakeservo - yes, Ford built a few LHD tubs - Some of the MK 3 road cars that came to the US were. The car at the Peterson Museum in LA is one example. Center shift as well.
JohnBP
Bid
Sep 28, 2026 · 17:13
Bid in the amount of $100,000
Sep 28, 2026 · 12:56
Definitely one of the most instantly recognizable GT40's in the PNW. I always loved watching Doug race this car back when I was participating in SOVREN events back in the early 2000's. Though there are no "racing" photos provided in this listing, there is no shortage of folks on this site that could provide them if needed. Hopefully Doug's GT40 gets back on track as that is what he would have wanted.
Sep 28, 2026 · 11:41
I've known Doug and his GT-40 since 1993, have been on the track at the same time, the Alfa wasn't quite as fast ;)
He drove and cared for the car as you would expect a gentleman of his Caliber would, back in the Ol'days he even drove it to the track, we'd hear him before you would see him. Oh, the sound "The Bundle of Snakes" made!! We miss Doug.
He drove and cared for the car as you would expect a gentleman of his Caliber would, back in the Ol'days he even drove it to the track, we'd hear him before you would see him. Oh, the sound "The Bundle of Snakes" made!! We miss Doug.
Sep 28, 2026 · 10:46
🧡 What a beauty.
Sep 28, 2026 · 10:10
BobD The "bundle of snakes" crosses the collectors and cylinder head banks. Number 1 cylinder is front right and it, along with #4, fire into the collector on the same side, the right collector. Two and three cylinders cross over and fire into the left collector. Five and eight on the left cylinder bank fire into the same side left collector, and six and seven cross over and fire into the right collector. That is a "bundle of snakes". Nothing sounds like a GT40 with a "bundle of snakes" exhaust. My wife and I just returned from the Goodwood Revival where several GT40s were displayed and racing. The three '66 LeMans winners toured the track in '66 formation, as well as #1103 and #1107 Mk IIIs. My wife easily recognized and commented when the GT40s were on the track.
Sep 27, 2026 · 15:06
What’s cool about this is it’s a continuation car and has age. You know the “patina” and that simple crude interior. You could definitely pass this off as an original to a lot of people. We definitely need a video of it starting and running!
Sep 26, 2026 · 14:31
Robust collection of spares, but what are the pedals for?
bppatel
Bid
Sep 26, 2026 · 14:12
Bid in the amount of $97,000
Sep 26, 2026 · 12:07
Picture 78 – it appears the driver may have been in need of a Gurney bubble 😉
Picture 196 – what are those? They look like old Shimano(ish) clipless pedals. Love the snail mail communications - Doug and Peter practically became pen-pals over this beauty. “…get in before Reagan gets re-elected!” 😂
Picture 196 – what are those? They look like old Shimano(ish) clipless pedals. Love the snail mail communications - Doug and Peter practically became pen-pals over this beauty. “…get in before Reagan gets re-elected!” 😂
Sep 26, 2026 · 08:34
Some of the photos make it look like a detailed model in a diorama. 17 is my favorite numer as it was the day I was born. Should do well.
Sep 26, 2026 · 07:52
My cross-town buddy doing well to be listing this gorgeous little car! GLWTA
Sep 26, 2026 · 07:28
Amazing car!! Can we get some pictures of the underside, maybe on a lift please?
Sep 26, 2026 · 02:27
@seller any chance for us mere mortals to enjoy the benefit of a start and/or driving video? really well presented piece of history and throwback to more analogue times.
Sep 26, 2026 · 01:45
Well that escalated quickly.
Sep 26, 2026 · 01:42
The condition of the fiberglass on the passenger side door in pic 96 near the hinge looks concerning. Beautiful car, though! GLWTA!
BossCars302
Bid
Sep 26, 2026 · 01:41
Bid in the amount of $96,500
Sep 26, 2026 · 00:21
Hammer price somewhere between an original and the Ford GT first offered in 2005? I suggest that there's not much risk going "No Reserve" on this one.
catpat8000
Bid
Sep 25, 2026 · 23:35
Bid in the amount of $50,000
Sep 25, 2026 · 20:09
? Are these the 'bundle of snakes' exhaust ? My aging brain remembers 'bundle of snakes' as having multiple curved members in a sort of cluster on each side.
Sep 25, 2026 · 18:49
Couldn't help myself. Awesome car, and now I can say I bid on it... that's about all I'll be able to say but GLWS!
Ldmadden
Bid
Sep 25, 2026 · 18:44
Bid in the amount of $6,969
Sep 25, 2026 · 16:16
Crazy to see. Gonna go insane
Sep 25, 2026 · 16:13
No A/C? I'm out
Sep 25, 2026 · 14:46
Me likey ,can't wait to see the final bid ,a piece of history!!!!
Sep 25, 2026 · 10:20
Stunning machine. On a lighter note... If I did'n safir ma wife sa much, I'd consida biddin :)
@Dollycat3
@Dollycat3
Sep 25, 2026 · 09:57
Nice to see proper RHD - did Ford ever built any LHD GT40s back in the day?
kutch21
Bid
Sep 25, 2026 · 08:17
Bid in the amount of $1,966
nweuro (The Seller)
Sep 25, 2026 · 05:51
This is a particularly special car for us because of its history. P/1117 was ordered directly from Safir Engineering by our friend Doug Kirk in 1984, completed in 1986, and it remained with him for the rest of his life. We consigned the car directly from the Kirk Estate, so this is the first time it has changed hands since new. Doug was an aerospace engineer and longtime fixture in the Pacific Northwest vintage racing community, and the way he cared for his Safir—and especially its records—reflects that background. The documentation is really remarkable. It begins with Doug’s original correspondence with Peter Thorp while the car was being ordered and specified and continues through more than four decades of ownership. There are letters, invoices, shipping documents, technical correspondence, manuals, photographs, maintenance records and a great deal more. We will be happy to dig into any of it during the auction. For anyone less familiar with the Safir cars, I think it’s important to understand that the Mk V is not simply another GT40 replica, but a true continuation car. Safir continued GT40 production in very limited numbers, and only about 40 Mk Vs were built. The Shelby American World Registry devotes ten pages to the Safir story, and GT40 historian Ronnie Spain concludes his discussion with a wonderfully succinct statement: “The Mk V is a GT40.”
P/1117 has the proper steel monocoque construction, a Boss 302-based Ford small-block and ZF five-speed transaxle. Doug also accumulated a substantial collection of spares over the years, much of which accompanies the car, including two additional sets of wheels with racing tires. The GT40 was recently serviced by Vintage Racing Motors in Redmond, WA, including all new fluids. It has also been fitted with new Avon CR6ZZ tires on freshly chromated magnesium wheels. Multiple road tests have proven that the car drives as good as it looks, and let us assure you that the experience is straight out of the 1960’s! We’ve spent quite a bit of time going through the car and the extraordinary archive that accompanies it, and are happy to answer questions about either. If there’s something in the documentation you’d like us to photograph or investigate, please ask. There is a lot of material here, and we’d like to use the auction discussion to tell as much of P/1117’s story as possible. Thanks for looking, and best of luck!
P/1117 has the proper steel monocoque construction, a Boss 302-based Ford small-block and ZF five-speed transaxle. Doug also accumulated a substantial collection of spares over the years, much of which accompanies the car, including two additional sets of wheels with racing tires. The GT40 was recently serviced by Vintage Racing Motors in Redmond, WA, including all new fluids. It has also been fitted with new Avon CR6ZZ tires on freshly chromated magnesium wheels. Multiple road tests have proven that the car drives as good as it looks, and let us assure you that the experience is straight out of the 1960’s! We’ve spent quite a bit of time going through the car and the extraordinary archive that accompanies it, and are happy to answer questions about either. If there’s something in the documentation you’d like us to photograph or investigate, please ask. There is a lot of material here, and we’d like to use the auction discussion to tell as much of P/1117’s story as possible. Thanks for looking, and best of luck!
Sep 25, 2026 · 04:26
@boaboyoz this car is not a replica! Its a continuation, that means its licensed by Ford to keep building the cars. Much more valuable then a replica.
Sep 25, 2026 · 03:18
This blue GT40 Mk I replica really kicks that style, wicked, wild. Fascinating history, very, very, very cool, and drop dead gorgeous. Last, but not least, hats off to the @seller for going No Reserve - GLWTA! @ext @Pettyfan43 evening gents, behold.........
Sep 25, 2026 · 03:17
yes please!
Sep 25, 2026 · 02:32
Beautiful cover photo!
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