Go Like Hell: The Epic Rivalry Between Ford and Ferrari at Le Mans – A Thrilling Journey Through Automotive History
Book Info
- Authors: AJ Baime
- Genres: Non-fiction, History & Politics
- Publisher:
- Publication year: First published January 1, 2009
- Pages & Format: 304 pages, Hardcover
- Version: Summary
Audio Summary
Please wait while we verify your browser...
Synopsis
AJ Baime’s “Go Like Hell” is a riveting account of the intense rivalry between Ford and Ferrari in the 1960s, culminating in their epic battle at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The book chronicles Henry Ford II’s ambitious quest to defeat Ferrari at Europe’s most prestigious race, the personal and professional struggles of key figures like Carroll Shelby and Ken Miles, and the development of the legendary Ford GT40. This thrilling narrative captures the high-stakes world of 1960s auto racing, where danger lurked at every turn and glory awaited those bold enough to push the limits of speed and endurance.
Key Takeaways
- * The Ford-Ferrari rivalry began when Enzo Ferrari backed out of a deal to sell his company to Ford, sparking Henry Ford II’s determination to beat Ferrari at Le Mans.
- * Carroll Shelby, a former racing champion, played a crucial role in developing the Ford GT40, the car that would eventually triumph over Ferrari.
- * The 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans marked a turning point in the rivalry, with Ford securing a historic 1-2-3 finish.
- * The book highlights the personal stories and sacrifices of drivers, engineers, and executives involved in this high-stakes automotive battle.
- * “Go Like Hell” provides a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of automotive technology and safety measures in the world of endurance racing.
My Summary
As I turned the last page of AJ Baime’s “Go Like Hell: Ford, Ferrari, and Their Battle for Speed and Glory at Le Mans,” I couldn’t help but feel a mix of exhilaration and nostalgia. This book is a masterful blend of automotive history, corporate rivalry, and human drama that kept me engaged from start to finish.
The Heart of the Rivalry
At its core, “Go Like Hell” is about the fierce competition between two automotive giants: Ford Motor Company, led by Henry Ford II, and Ferrari, helmed by the enigmatic Enzo Ferrari. The rivalry kicked off in 1963 when a deal for Ford to acquire Ferrari fell through at the last minute. This business deal gone sour became deeply personal, especially for Henry Ford II, who vowed to beat Ferrari at their own game – the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans race.
As a long-time follower of automotive history, I was familiar with the broad strokes of this rivalry. However, Baime’s meticulous research and vivid storytelling brought new depth and texture to the tale. He skillfully weaves together the personal stories of key figures with the broader narrative of technological innovation and corporate ambition.
The Players: Larger than Life
One of the book’s strengths is its portrayal of the colorful cast of characters involved in this epic battle. Henry Ford II, also known as “the Deuce,” comes across as a determined and sometimes ruthless leader, desperate to modernize Ford and reclaim its position at the top of the automotive world. Enzo Ferrari, on the other hand, is depicted as a passionate racing enthusiast, deeply committed to his craft but also prone to using others as pawns in his larger game.
But it’s not just the executives who shine in this narrative. Baime gives equal attention to the engineers, mechanics, and drivers who were on the front lines of this battle. I was particularly drawn to the story of Carroll Shelby, the former racing champion turned car designer who played a pivotal role in developing the Ford GT40. His journey from driver to innovator is a testament to the evolving nature of the automotive industry during this period.
The Human Cost of Glory
While “Go Like Hell” is undoubtedly a celebration of automotive innovation and racing glory, Baime doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of this high-stakes world. The book paints a sobering picture of the dangers faced by drivers in an era when safety was often an afterthought. The description of various accidents, including the tragic death of Ken Miles, serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of this pursuit of speed and glory.
As I read about these incidents, I couldn’t help but reflect on how far we’ve come in terms of racing safety. It’s a testament to the bravery (or perhaps recklessness) of these early drivers that they were willing to risk so much for their passion.
The Le Mans Showdown
The book builds to a crescendo with its account of the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans race. Baime’s description of the race is nothing short of cinematic. I found myself on the edge of my seat, even though I knew the outcome. The tension, the technical challenges, the strategic decisions – all are brought to life in vivid detail.
The controversy surrounding the finish of the race – where Ford essentially engineered a photo finish that ended up costing Ken Miles his chance at a historic triple crown – adds a bittersweet note to Ford’s triumph. It’s a reminder that even in victory, things are rarely simple in the world of high-stakes racing.
Legacy and Reflection
As the book concludes, Baime offers some thoughtful reflections on the legacy of this rivalry. While Ford achieved its goal of beating Ferrari at Le Mans, the victory came at an enormous financial cost. Moreover, the landscape of the automotive industry was already shifting, with new challengers emerging from Japan.
Reading this book in 2023, I’m struck by how much the automotive world has changed since the 1960s. Yet, the spirit of innovation and competition that drove Ford and Ferrari continues to shape the industry today. Whether it’s the push for electric vehicles or the development of autonomous driving technology, the echoes of this historic rivalry can still be felt.
A Must-Read for Car Enthusiasts and History Buffs Alike
“Go Like Hell” is more than just a book about cars or racing. It’s a story about human ambition, technological innovation, and the power of competition to drive progress. Baime’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex technical details understandable even to those who aren’t gearheads.
As I reflect on the book, I’m left with a deeper appreciation for the men and women who pushed the boundaries of automotive technology in the 1960s. Their passion, ingenuity, and sometimes reckless courage laid the foundation for much of what we take for granted in modern cars.
For anyone interested in automotive history, business rivalry, or just a gripping true story, “Go Like Hell” is an absolute must-read. It’s a reminder of a time when cars were more than just transportation – they were the embodiment of national pride, technological prowess, and human daring.
What are your thoughts on this historic rivalry? Do you see any parallels in today’s automotive industry? I’d love to hear your perspectives in the comments below. And if you’ve read the book, what parts resonated with you the most?
