Video: listen to Ford's prototype GT racer testing on track

Earlier this year, Ford announced it would return to Le Mans in 2016 with a racing version of its new, twin-turbo V6-engined GT supercar. This was, and continues to be, excellent news.

Though it won't contest the top LMP1 level of racing – where Audi, Porsche and Toyota battle it out – this nevertheless represents the return of Ford to the finest endurance race on the planet, and, for many, rekindles the 1960s glory days of the GT40 at La Sarthe. You know the rest.

Now, Ford has announced the four drivers who will contest two Ford GTs in the 2016 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, too.

They are Ryan Briscoe, Richard Westbrook, Dirk Müller and Joey Hand. And how’s this for a neat touch? The cars will wear numbers 66 and 67, matching the years the first generation GT40 won at Le Mans.

The video above introduces the new drivers, so there is much talking. But at around the 1m 40s mark, a prototype GT racer lets rip for a moment, and it is even more excellent.

Have a watch – and indeed a listen – and tell us: is endurance racing the new F1?