A 1990 Porsche 964 Carrera 4 Leichtbau, one of the rarest race-bred prototypes ever created by the German marque, is heading to auction this August as a centerpiece offering from Gooding Christie’s during the prestigious Pebble Beach Auctions.
One of only 22 Leichtbau (“Lightweight”) prototypes developed for Porsche’s then-fledgling Carrera Cup racing series, the car is a stripped-down, track-focused version of the 964 Carrera 4 and stands as a significant piece of motorsport history. Built under the direction of Porsche racing legend Jürgen Barth, the Leichtbau models were hand-assembled at the company’s famed Werk I racing facility and represent a critical bridge between production-based 911s and Porsche’s race-dominant lineage.
This particular example has just 502 kilometers (approximately 312 miles) from new, making it one of the lowest-mileage Leichtbau units in existence. Power comes from a 3.6-liter flat-six engine with dual ignition, delivering 265 horsepower, mated to a manual transmission and all-wheel drive—advanced features for its era.
The car’s minimalist ethos is evident throughout: no power accessories, fixed rear spoiler, aluminum roll cage, Recaro racing seats, and reduced weight down to just 2,414 pounds. The suspension was lowered by approximately an inch, enhancing track agility, while interior comforts were removed in favor of performance efficiency.
According to David Brynan, senior specialist at Gooding Christie’s, “The Carrera 4 Leichtbau is one of the most rare, interesting, and technically sophisticated 964 models—and is among the last 911s that were entirely hand built in Porsche’s legendary racing workshop.”
With Porsche 911 values surging and prototype race cars attracting global demand, the Leichtbau’s estimated auction price of $750,000 to $1 million reflects its rarity, performance pedigree, and role in shaping Porsche’s motorsport legacy.
The auction will take place August 15–16 at Pebble Beach during Monterey Car Week.