Last Porsche 917 to Race in Le Mans Set to Fetch $5.4 Million At Auction

In the world of classic motorsport, few names resonate as powerfully as the Porsche 917, a vehicle that redefined endurance racing in its heyday. This May, one of the most iconic examples of this legendary race car, chassis No. 917-K81, will take center stage at the RM Sotheby’s Monaco auction. Known for its formidable presence on the track, this particular 917K not only represents the pinnacle of Porsche’s racing heritage but also stands as the last 917 to have graced the Circuit de la Sarthe at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Introduced in 1969, the Porsche 917 quickly became the car to beat in the World Sportscar Championship, with the marque rolling out 25 units initially to meet homologation requirements. The car’s evolution saw the introduction of the 917K (Kurzheck) variant, equipped with a more potent 5.0-liter engine capable of unleashing up to 630 horsepower. However, chassis No. 917-K81’s story is even more remarkable due to its significant hiatus from racing before making a competitive return at the 1981 Le Mans race, under the banner of Cologne-based Kremer Racing.

Kremer Racing’s iteration of the 917K, built with Porsche’s blessing and factory support, boasted state-of-the-art tire technology and aerodynamic enhancements, positioning it as potentially the most competitive 917 ever produced. Its outing at the 1981 24 Hours of Le Mans, with drivers Bob Wollek, Xavier Lapeyre, and Guy Chasseuil, showcased its capabilities before an unfortunate collision and subsequent retirement from the race. Despite its early exit, the car’s participation in Le Mans and its later appearance at the 1981 Brands Hatch 1000 Kilometers race cemented its place in the annals of motorsport history.

The forthcoming auction in Monaco presents a singular opportunity for collectors and institutions to own a piece of Porsche’s storied racing legacy. With an estimated value of approximately $5.4 million, chassis No. 917-K81’s allure isn’t just its historical significance or its status as a collector’s dream. It also offers the possibility of returning to the track, competing in various historic race series, and continuing to write new chapters in its distinguished narrative.

As the auction date approaches, the anticipation builds not only among Porsche aficionados but also among the broader community of classic car enthusiasts. This Porsche 917K, with its rich racing heritage and undeniable prowess, is poised to become one of the highlights of the RM Sotheby’s Monaco auction, symbolizing the enduring legacy of Porsche’s contribution to motorsport.