The 1966 Ford GT40 is one of the most iconic cars ever. Synonymous with achievements in motosport, casuals and car fanatics alike can easily identify the shape and curves of the classic. However, a car thief in Iowa clearly didn’t get this memo after attempting to steal a replica.
A Tale of Black and Yellow
Patrick Allen Chamberlin located the Ford and stole it from Marshall County Supervisor Steve Salasek. The target was kept in Salasek’s storage shed but had mysteriously disappeared. However, fans of Grand Theft Auto will get a chuckle out of Chamberlin’s masterplan for thieving the car.
The Ford GT40 replica was originally painted in bright yellow, not the most ideal for an aspiring car thief. In an attempt to mask the original paint job, Chamberlin sprayed the car in black as you would in GTA. Perhaps a good idea in theory, but even in black, the GT40 is still an eye catcher.
That was the least of his worries though as the dodgy coat started to peel, revealing the original beneath. Unsurprisingly, residents of Marshalltown soon recognized and reported the stolen vehicle.
GT40 owner Salasek remains optimistic about bringing the GT40 to its post-theft glory; “One way or another, it’ll come back to life”. Hopefully the crude disguise hasn’t ruined the replica.
Police have since hit Chamberlin with multiple offences including theft and possession of a controlled substance. Perhaps he should try using a cheat code to clear his wanted level.
