1974 Porsche 911 Carrera RSR Turbo
The RSR Turbo, introduced just a decade after the 911 entered production, is now recognised as one of the most fascinating, influential models in the history of the Porsche marque. These state-of-the-art machines successfully competed against prototype sports racing cars during the 1974 racing season and were instrumental in the development of subsequent turbocharged 911 racing cars. The RSR Turbo was also the first turbocharged car to run at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, ushering in an exciting new era in motor sports. Every Porsche that has won Le Mans since this model’s introduction in 1974 – from the 936 to the 919 Hybrid – successfully utilised turbo technology.
The last of four examples built for the Martini & Rossi sponsored works team, this car, known as R13, was the most successful of the RSR Turbos. R13 instantly became a racing legend, when it captured a spectacular 2nd Place Overall finish at the 1974 24 Hours of Le Mans. During its active career, it was raced by many era’s great drivers – including Gijs Van Lennep, Herbert Müller, and George Follmer – and competed at important venues including Brands Hatch, Watkins Glen, and Daytona. Finally it also features one of the all-time great liveries in the history of motor racing, the original Martini & Rossi colours. Few racing cars of this calibre have remained so correct and untouched, while representing such an important piece of Porsche history.
Gooding & Company will be offering this special vehicle at their upcoming Amelia Island auction on the 9th March. The estimated value is between $6m - $8m. For more information on this and other vehicles at the sale, click on the link below. Photos: Gooding & Company.