RETRO RACE
‘Last of its kind’ Porsche driven by legendary driver at Le Mans to hit auction for record-breaking £4m
The motor was given a fresh motor five years ago
AN ICONIC Porsche raced around by a legendary driver is set to go under the hammer for an eye-popping £4million.
The 1981 Porsche 917 K-81 is the last of its kind and was the last of the model to compete at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
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The gorgeous yellow motor was constructed by Le Mans-winning team Kremer Racing with full co-operation from Porsche AG.
After a fresh engine rebuild in 2019, the sleek racing vehicle has had limited use - giving it a clean and sharp aesthetic.
According to the listing on RM Sotheby's, the "fastidiously maintained and impeccably presented" motor would be a fitting "centrepiece for any appropriately discerning competition car collection."
The 917 K-81 will go under the hammer at RM Sotheby’s Monaco auction at the Grimaldi Forum on May 10 and 11.
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It is expected to fetch as much as £4,288,000.
It added: "In contrast to other era-defining designs such as the Alfa Romeo 8C, Jaguar D-Type or Porsche 956/962, the 917’s racing career in its original coupé form was only fleeting.
"It involved less than three seasons and a mere 23 World Championship events.
"Remarkably, the car emerged victorious in 15, including wins at both Daytona and Le Mans in 1970 and again in 1971.
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"Rendered ineligible for international racing in 1972, the 917’s legacy was further secured by two dominant seasons in the unrestricted North American Can-Am Championship, in which the Penske Racing team’s 917/10 and 917/30 Spyders secured consecutive titles in 1972 and 1973, respectively.
"Nevertheless, the introduction of new fuel restrictions for 1974 heralded Porsche’s withdrawal from the series, and after barely five seasons of top-flight competition, it appeared that the chapter had closed on arguably the most charismatic—and certainly the most coveted—of all Porsches."
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It comes after an odd F1 car once driven by an ex-world champion is going on sale for an eye-watering price.
The bizarre six-wheeled Tyrrell P34 replica is set to go under the hammer in May and is expected to make a whopping £544,000.
The P34 originally raced during the 1976 and 1977 seasons and this replica was made many years later in 2008.
As this particular model - owned by none other than racing legend Jody Scheckter - has never raced it's in "excellent condition."
The motor's peculiar six-wheeled design is the brainchild of Tyrrell technical director Derek Gardner.
He figured that he could package smaller wheels below the wing.
The second set of rubber would make up for the tinier size's reduced contact patch.
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There would also be reduced drag compared to the air flowing over the taller tires competitors used.
It'll go up for auction in May at RM Sotheby's sale in Monaco, with an estimated price of £381,000 to £544,000.
Car auctions: What to know
Car auctions are a way to sell vehicles based on a bidding system with the highest offer securing the deal.
Auctions aren't restricted to the rich and famous as thousands of cars are sold at motor auctions in the UK each week.
Here's what you need to know before attending an auction:
- Be prepared: Do your research on the car you would like to purchase beforehand.
- Check the car: Cars will usually be lined up before the start, so make sure to arrive early to inspect the desired car thoroughly.
- Have a back-up: Be ready for disappointment as your desired motor may be sold to someone else and select a few back-ups.
- Be realistic: Realise that there won't be a "perfect" car at an auction and adjust expectations accordingly.
- Set a budget: It is easy to overspend in the heat of the moment during bidding. Ensure you have set a budget and do not go over it.
Key phrases to look out for:
- ‘No major mechanical faults’ – suggests that there shouldn't be any issues with the car's drivetrain, gearbox, suspension, or engine.
- ‘Specified faults’ – the auctioneer will read out specific faults.
- ‘Sold as seen’ – the vehicle is sold with any and all problems it may have. The auction company will rarely entertain complaints regarding the mechanical or cosmetic condition of these vehicles after sale.
- ‘Sold with a warranted mileage’ - The car is being offered based on the report, which confirms the mileage through an independent check.
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