The idea of a “numbers matching” classic with pedigree ignites a solid warm fuzzy in the belly of all gear heads. When you are talking about a historic race car like the LeMans-winning GT40, show-and-shine pride becomes legendary iconography. In this mini-documentary series RK Motors of Charlotte, takes us through the restoration and return to glory of the original LeMans winning Ford.

Started by Henry Ford II, the Ford racing efforts developed a Ferrari shattering platform we all know as the GT40. Aptly-named for it’s severely low roof line, this composite, mid-engined racer went on to destroy the competition in it’s 1964 debut and continued to assert it’s dominant posture over the rest of the decade.

This journey follows the original chassis number P1046 as it is brought back to glory in both mechanical and spiritual terms. The restoration operation at RK Motors is not only concerned with re-invigorating this almost mythical American supercar in mechanical terms but also in bringing life back into the romanticism of the sweat and toil that went into it’s success.

As P1046 has changed owners throughout the years it has witnessed various phases of attempted restoration. Though as many antique collectors will tell you there is a fine line between restoration and bastardization. By adding small non-original components, and replacing certain parts such as the interior, the literal and figurative essence of the car was slowly eroded.

The vision of Rob Kauffman of RK Motors is that “P1046 will be rebuilt anew, meticulously cataloguing each one of these components in order to ensure that only the parts which Carrol Shelby destined to win at LeMans are returned to the historic chassis,” explains the narrator.

With the care and respect of fine art restorers we see the craftsmen of RK Motors disassemble the GT40 in preparation to rebuild the legend. Stay tuned for the continuation of the series.