Porsche 959 is a sports car produced by one of the most famous German companies. An interesting fact: the production of one such car used to cost the concern two times more than, in fact, the price of the car for which people bought it. Well, this is not the only interesting fact regarding this company, so it’s also worth talking about the rest.
Interesting Facts
So, as mentioned above, the real cost of the Porsche 959 should have been two times the one that was installed on it. You don’t even need to be a specialist to calculate: the release of this model of the company did not, in fact, bring any financial benefits. However, despite this fact, the 959th model significantly refreshed the image of the concern. Porsche 959 was the car that won in 24 hours of Le Mans, as well as in the rally "Paris - Dakar". Thus, he replenished the piggy bank achievements of the brand. And besides this, he won the love and recognition of thousands of people around the world. This car is the most advanced and technological car among all that came out in the eighties. Several publications wrote about him. For example, in Sports Car International he was called the best sports car of the 80s, and in Auto, Moto und Sport they wrote that it was the best “Porsche” of all time. So it’s not such a lame concept.
Start of release
It is worth talking about how this Porsche began to be released. The history of the brand is quite interesting, so this topic must be touched upon.
So, for the first time this model appeared to the world in 1983. It was then, in Frankfurt, this car was presented. At that time, this concept was a prototype of the rally car of group B. It was rumored that the model has no future. There were many disagreements, which related mainly to technical features. And many critics did not at all see the point in releasing such a machine.
However, the project was approved. And two years later, the serial Porsche 959 appeared to the world. And it was already a sensation.
Appearance
A review of the Porsche 959 should begin with a description of its appearance. The image of the car was created by Luigi Colani. This is the same designer who later had a hand in Corvette. In general, the car turned out specific - for an amateur. But the fact that it attracts glances is a fact. Many find the appearance of the model similar to the “Porsche 911”. However, if you look closely, you can understand - this is by no means the case. Despite the rather large number of matches with the image, the 959th version turned out to be original. No other car had such a body yet.
The main task of the new model was to take part in the rally. Therefore, designers have focused on aerodynamics, creating a more streamlined body. Due to this, it was possible to deprive the model of sharp corners and other details that protruded above the surface. In addition to the front bumper, decorated with a powerful air intake, the car boasts a huge number of different small ventilation holes. They are located on the sides and contribute to additional cooling of the motor (especially this function saves when the car is traveling in extreme mode). More designers decided to add a large rear wing. All this made the design very functional. Nevertheless, the car turned out to be “muscular." With her look, she hinted to potential buyers about serious technical specifications. Well, this is a separate issue.
Porsche 959: specs and power indicators
This Porsche is equipped with a 6-cylinder 3.5-liter engine, which manufacturers have created taking into account all company traditions. However, due to the concept being followed (which was to create a racing model), some adjustments had to be made.
The power unit for the model was chosen taking into account certain FIA requirements. Still, the car was preparing to participate in group B, which was famous for its power and strength. It was necessary to make the engine no more than 4 liters in volume. Or 2.85 liters - using a turbocharger. The developers decided to choose the second option. They borrowed the 6-cylinder engine from the Porsche racing.
The motor worked under the control of 6-speed mechanics, which successfully combined with electronic clutch. The suspension also turned out decent - it allowed you to adjust the clearance and could change modes (it was sports, intermediate and normal).
For the first time this car was announced to participate in a rally in 1985, but unfortunately, no victories were achieved. Engineers took this into account. And in 1986, they presented to the public the updated Porsche with a 600-horsepower engine and twin turbocharging. As a result, the Porsche team took first place.
Sales
Interestingly, in the US, this model was never sold. The company simply did not want to introduce it to the Americans. It was unprofitable. And in Europe there were enough potential buyers. By the way, it was planned to release 200 pieces (in series). The model was insanely expensive at that time - a little less than 300 thousand dollars. Then, for the price, many compared the “Porsche” with the famous Ferrari F40. It cost a little more and was a direct competitor to the 959th Porsche.