Porsche developed the 917 sports prototype racer to exploit the regulations regarding the construction of 5-liter sports cars. Powered by a flat-12 engine which was progressively enlarged from 4.5 to 5.0 liters, the 917 was introduced in 1969.
Extensive testing and continuous technological development resulted in an iconic sports racing car that dominated the World Championship of Makes sports-car racing in 1970 and 1971. In 1970 it gave Porsche its first overall win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans (reaching speeds of 240mph), a feat it would repeat in 1971. It was chiefly responsible for Porsche winning the World Championship of Makes in 1970 and 1971. Porsche went on to develop the 917 for Can-Am racing, culminating in the twin-turbocharged 917/30 which proved dominant in the role. Porsche drivers would win the Can-Am championship in 1972 and 1973; 917 drivers also won the European Interserie championship every year from 1969 to 1975.
This example, number 32 of 37 built, served as a factory development car to evaluate the aerodynamic impact of different body configurations and was driven by such 917 legends as Vic Elford, Jo Siffert and Derek Bell.
917-032 was lent by the Porsche factory to Solar Productions to be used by Steve McQueen in the making of the movie, Le Mans. It is accompanied by its restoration and ownership history back to the original Bill of Sale, signed by Helmut Bott, head of Porsche Competition, to its first owner, Porsche factory driver, Willi Kauhsen, who embarked on a complete mechanical and cosmetic frame-up restoration. For sale at Motor Classic & Competition Corp.
Report by motorclassiccorp.com
