An incredibly rare Porsche 959 Speedster is making waves in the automotive world as it heads to auction with RM Sotheby’s. This isn’t just any Porsche; it’s a unique piece of history that has undergone a remarkable transformation. Let’s dive into the story behind this stunning vehicle and what makes it so special.
### What’s the Story Behind the Porsche 959 Speedster?
The 1987 Komfort model of the Porsche 959 is not just a car; it’s a tale of resilience and craftsmanship. Originally delivered to racing driver Jürgen Lässig, known for his impressive wins, including the 24 Hours of Daytona, this supercar met an unfortunate fate in 1988 when it was involved in an Autobahn accident. Instead of being left to rust, the car was reborn thanks to Karl-Heinz Feustel, a Porsche racer and skilled craftsman who dedicated over 4,000 hours to converting the damaged coupe into the eye-catching Speedster we see today.
### What Makes This Speedster Unique?
Feustel’s transformation of the 959 included removing the coupe roof and adding an electrically-operated soft top. He didn’t stop there; he also crafted a removable hard top, which comes with its own case as part of the sale. This attention to detail is what sets this Speedster apart from others. The car also features a low-cut windshield that aligns with the classic Speedster aesthetic, reminiscent of the Porsche 356 and 911 Speedsters. However, many enthusiasts believe it could benefit from a hard-shell tonneau cover to complete the look.
### How Did the Rebuild Impact the Car’s Value?
The finished product made its debut at the 1989 Frankfurt International Motor Show, where it captured the attention of many. At the Essen Motor Show later that year, Feustel was reportedly asking a staggering $1.2 million for the car—a bold move at the time. Fast forward to today, and the odometer reads just 8,304 kilometers (about 5,160 miles), showcasing that this Speedster is barely broken in. The 444 hp, 2.8-liter twin-turbo flat-six engine still hums beautifully, and the Grand Prix white paint alongside the blue leather interior looks almost pristine.
### What’s the Auction Price Expectation?
RM Sotheby’s has set a guide price of €1.1-1.5 million (approximately $1.25-1.71 million) for this one-of-a-kind Speedster. While this might seem low for a coupe with such low mileage, the conversion from its original state may deter some purists who prioritize originality. However, for collectors or enthusiasts who already own a standard 959, this Speedster could be a fantastic addition to their collection.
### Why Should You Care About This Auction?
The Porsche 959 Speedster isn’t just a car; it’s a piece of automotive art and history. It represents the ingenuity of the 1980s, a time when automakers were less focused on profit margins and more on pushing the boundaries of engineering and design. This particular model is a reminder of how passion and craftsmanship can breathe new life into something that was once considered lost.
The big takeaway? This Porsche 959 Speedster isn’t just about luxury or speed—it’s about the story behind its creation. If you’re a car enthusiast or a collector, this auction is a chance to own a unique piece of automotive history. Start following the auction closely, and who knows? You might just find yourself captivated by this extraordinary vehicle.