Yesterday we saw some photos of the original Porsche 917 which had been restored over the last two years and now Porsche has released a video of the car.
This is the first every 917 that Porsche built with the number 001, it has been used in testing since it was built 50 years ago and it is now fully restored.
The 917: a milestone for Porsche and an icon of motorsport. A formidable racecar that took the first of 19 Porsche victories at Le Mans. Developed by a small, passionate team in less than a year under absolute secrecy and enormous time pressure. Now, 50 years later, we present the 917 with chassis number 001 – in the original condition of its world premiere in 1969 – together with other 917 descendants.
The Legacy of the Porsche 917
The Porsche 917 is not just any racecar; it is a symbol of engineering excellence and a testament to Porsche’s commitment to motorsport. The 917 was developed in a remarkably short period, under intense secrecy and pressure. The car’s debut at the 1969 Geneva Motor Show marked the beginning of a new era for Porsche. The 917 was designed to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and it did so with unprecedented success. In 1970, the 917 secured Porsche’s first overall win at Le Mans, a feat that would be repeated in 1971.
The 917’s design was revolutionary for its time. It featured a flat-12 engine, which was capable of producing over 600 horsepower. The car’s aerodynamic design, including its distinctive long tail, allowed it to reach speeds of over 240 mph. These innovations made the 917 a formidable competitor on the track and cemented its place in motorsport history.
The Restoration Process
Restoring the original Porsche 917 with chassis number 001 was no small feat. The restoration process took over two years and involved meticulous attention to detail. Porsche’s team of experts worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the car was restored to its original condition. This included sourcing original parts, many of which are no longer in production, and using traditional techniques to preserve the car’s authenticity.
The restoration process also involved extensive research. Porsche’s team delved into the company’s archives to gather as much information as possible about the original 917. This included studying old photographs, technical drawings, and even speaking with former engineers and drivers who were involved with the car. The result is a beautifully restored 917 that looks and performs just as it did when it first rolled off the production line 50 years ago.
The restored 917 is not just a museum piece; it is a fully functional racecar. Porsche has taken the car out on the track to ensure that it performs to the same high standards as the original. This is a testament to the skill and dedication of Porsche’s restoration team and a fitting tribute to one of the most iconic racecars in history.
You can find out more information about the original 917 from Porsche over at their website at the link below.
Source Porsche
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