This beautiful Porsche racer is far from a perfect specimen, but the bumps and bruises it wears it came by honestly. The car appears to have been left just as it was after whatever its last race was finished up. The car has scuffs and bumps, but it is a glorious bit of engineering.
Historical Significance of the Porsche 917 Can Am Spyder
This is the first 917 Can Am Spyder, the very first of only 13 made. This is the only 917 variant in private hands that has chassis number 001. The car was a factory development and test chassis and has a notable competition history of its own. The Porsche 917 series is renowned for its dominance in the racing world, particularly in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where it secured multiple victories. The Can Am Spyder variant was specifically designed for the Canadian-American Challenge Cup, a racing series that was known for its minimal restrictions and high-powered vehicles.
The 917 Can Am Spyder was a significant departure from its predecessors, featuring an open-top design and a more powerful engine. This particular car, with its unique chassis number 001, served as a testbed for various innovations that would later be implemented in other racing cars. Its historical significance cannot be overstated, as it represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of racing technology.
Technical Specifications and Performance
The car has had only four private owners between 1972 and 2008. It has a 600hp DOHC air-cooled 12-cylinder engine with mechanical fuel injection and a 5-speed manual transmission. The engine’s design was revolutionary at the time, incorporating advanced materials and engineering techniques to maximize performance and reliability. The mechanical fuel injection system, for instance, allowed for precise control of the fuel-air mixture, resulting in better throttle response and overall efficiency.
The 5-speed manual transmission was specifically geared to handle the immense power output of the engine, providing smooth and rapid gear changes. The car’s lightweight construction, combined with its powerful engine, allowed it to achieve remarkable speeds and handling characteristics. It was capable of reaching speeds in excess of 200 mph, making it one of the fastest cars of its era.
The car is expected to bring as much as $6 million at auction when the gavel falls. This high valuation is not just a reflection of its performance capabilities but also its historical importance and rarity. Collectors and enthusiasts alike recognize the value of owning a piece of automotive history, particularly one as significant as the first 917 Can Am Spyder.
Legacy and Influence
The legacy of the Porsche 917 Can Am Spyder extends beyond its racing achievements. It has influenced the design and engineering of subsequent racing and high-performance vehicles. The lessons learned from its development have been applied to modern racing cars, contributing to advancements in aerodynamics, engine technology, and materials science.
Moreover, the car has become a symbol of Porsche’s commitment to innovation and excellence in motorsport. It serves as a reminder of the brand’s storied history and its ongoing pursuit of perfection. For many, the 917 Can Am Spyder represents the pinnacle of automotive engineering and design, a testament to what can be achieved when passion and expertise come together.
The Porsche 917 Can Am Spyder is more than just a beautiful racer with a few bumps and bruises. It is a piece of automotive history, a marvel of engineering, and a symbol of Porsche’s enduring legacy in the world of motorsport. Its expected auction price of up to $6 million is a testament to its significance and the high regard in which it is held by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
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