Ford is aiming to win the outright 24 Hours of Le Mans race for the first time in nearly six decades, and they’re doing it with a familiar engine: the 5.4-liter “Coyote” V8 currently powering their Mustang GT3 racer. The announcement confirms Ford’s commitment to the FIA World Endurance Championship starting in 2027, and marks a significant step toward re-establishing the brand’s dominance at the legendary French circuit.
Return to Roots
This powertrain choice isn’t accidental. The V8 engine is a deliberate nod to Ford’s historic victories at Le Mans from 1966 to 1969 with the GT40. All four winning GT40s featured a V8, ranging from 7.0-liter to 4.9-liter configurations depending on rule changes.
“When you have an engine this iconic in your arsenal, you don’t look for alternatives,” explains Dan Sayers, Ford Racing’s hypercar boss. “You lean into your DNA.”
The decision to use the naturally aspirated V8, rather than a more modern turbo or hybrid setup, speaks to Ford’s desire to connect its current ambitions with its past glory. This engine serves as a direct link between the legendary cars of the 60s and the future racing efforts in 2027.
Technical Details and Development
Under the LMDh regulations, manufacturers must use a chassis from one of four approved constructors, with Ford selecting Oreca for this project. While the chassis is standardized, the engine is not.
The Coyote V8 will be paired with a spec hybrid system, with total output capped at 671bhp. The car is currently undergoing wind tunnel testing with an on-track debut planned for later this year. This isn’t just a matter of fitting an engine into a chassis; the V8 is being developed entirely in-house by a combined team from Ford’s Michigan headquarters and the Red Bull Ford Powertrains Formula 1 project.
Driver Lineup Confirmed
Ford has also announced the initial driver lineup for the 2027 WEC campaign: Sebastian Priaulx, Mike Rockenfeller, and Logan Sargeant. Rockenfeller, a Le Mans winner with Audi in 2010, and Priaulx will transition from racing the Mustang GT3 in IMSA. Former Williams F1 driver Sargeant completes the trio. The team will compete in the European Le Mans Series this year with an Oreca LMP2 prototype, allowing them to “stress-test” the program under real-world conditions.
Why This Matters
Ford’s decision to double down on a naturally aspirated V8 is noteworthy because modern endurance racing increasingly favors hybrid and electric powertrains. The move is as much about branding and heritage as it is about performance. Le Mans is not just a race; it’s a symbol of automotive history, and Ford is intentionally tapping into that legacy.
The competition in the hypercar class will be fierce, with manufacturers like Ferrari, Porsche, and Toyota already committed to advanced hybrid systems. Ford’s approach may prove to be a calculated risk, banking on the emotional resonance of the V8 to resonate with fans and engineers alike.
Ultimately, Ford’s return to Le Mans with this iconic engine isn’t just about winning a race; it’s about reclaiming a legend. The 2027 season promises a thrilling showdown between tradition and technological advancement.
