Graham Hill went on to win that year's title and the car continued winning races until 1970.
He also picked up another second place at the Indianapolis 500, this time behind Graham Hill.
Graham Hill retired from fourth place in his first race on lap 69, after briefly leading.
Graham Hill could still theoretically overhaul Clark for the championship.
Graham Hill started 176 races, all of which were in British-built cars.
Graham Hill tested the vehicle before Indy, but refused to drive it in 1963.
The race marked the first win for Graham Hill since 1965.
Graham Hill was considered a rookie winner when he won in his first start (1966).
But the son of the late Graham Hill, a two-time series champion in the 1960's, will not permit the talk to become a distraction.
Graham Hill took the lead with his Matra around midnight.