1987 Porsche 959: A Rare Opportunity at Auction

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1987 Porsche 959: A Rare Opportunity at Auction - Image for illustration purposes only
01-12-2025caranddriver
The Porsche 959 stands as an iconic blend of speed and innovation, born from the brand's rallying ambitions. A recent auction on Bring a Trailer offers a unique chance to own one of these legendary vehicles.

A Revolutionary Supercar

- Launch Year: 1986
- Top Speed: 197 mph, the fastest production car upon release
- Production Count: Only 292 made

This 1987 model has approximately 8,000 miles and has been freshly serviced by 959 expert Bruce Canepa.

Rally Roots

- Origins: Developed for the competitive Group B rally series
- Notable Achievement: First, second, and sixth place at the 1986 Paris-Dakar Rally

While Group B's danger led to its demise, the 959 left a lasting mark in the motorsport world.

Performance and Engineering

- Engine: 2.85-liter flat-six with sequential twin-turbos
- Power: 444 horsepower
- Transmission: Six-speed manual
- Drive: Advanced all-wheel-drive with dynamic torque distribution

Built as a technological marvel, the 959 introduced innovations like water-cooled heads and set the stage for future supercars.

Exclusive Modifications

This auction model underwent significant upgrades at Canepa's facility, including:

- Suspension: Modified with manual coil-overs and Penske dampers
- Closer specification to the rare 959 Sport

Porsche's original aim for robustness ensures that this 959 isn't just for display—it's ready for the road.

Legacy and Collectibility

The 959's influence on Porsche is undeniable, with its DNA visible in the modern 911 Turbo. Due to its age, it can now be driven freely in the U.S.

Auction Details

The auction concludes on January 16. This is more than a chance to own a car; it’s a piece of automotive history and innovation.

Summary

The 1987 Porsche 959 at auction is a rare collector's gem, celebrated for its pioneering technology and rally heritage. With limited production and expert servicing, it offers a blend of historical significance and thrilling capability.

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