1985 Porsche 962

The Porsche 962 holds an unparalleled place in the history of endurance racing. With its groundbreaking design and remarkable success on the track, the 962 became an iconic symbol of Porsche’s dominance in the 24 Hour race.

No manufacturer is more closely linked to the greatest 24 Hour race than Porsche, boasting an outstanding record of 19 overall victories. Prior to the Group C sports car era, Porsche had achieved six overall wins, trailing behind Ferrari. However, the introduction of the 962 would elevate Porsche’s victories to an astounding 13 by 1994.

The Porsche 962 marked a radical departure from its predecessors with its innovative design. The firm had previously relied on tubular or space frame chassis for its prototype sports cars, but the 962 introduced an aluminium monocoque construction. This structural advancement resulted in improved rigidity and reduced weight, enhancing the car’s overall performance.

One of the most significant advancements of the 956 and 962 was their utilisation of ground-effect aerodynamics. By harnessing the principles of ground-effect, the cars generated substantial downforce, allowing for exceptional stability and cornering capabilities. The 962’s aerodynamic prowess became a crucial factor in its dominance on the race track.

While the 956 set the stage for success, IMSA regulation changes led to the evolution of the 962. The wheelbase was slightly increased to allow the pedals to move behind the front axle centerline, improving weight distribution and handling. Additionally, a steel roll cage was integrated into the chassis, further enhancing driver safety.

Chassis number 004, a Works 962, was assigned to the Rothmans Porsche factory team for the 1985 and 1986 seasons. Its debut at the 1985 24 Hours of Le Mans was met with great anticipation, adorned in the iconic Rothmans livery. Piloted by John Watson, Vern Schuppan, and Al Holbert, it showcased its capabilities by qualifying 5th and maintaining 2nd place for over 12 hours during the race.

After its debut, chassis 004 continued to make its mark on the racing scene. It was campaigned as “No. 1” by Jacky Ickx and Jochen Mass in the 1985 World Sportscar Championship (WSC), earning pole positions and podium finishes. In the 1986 season, Bob Wollek joined Jochen Mass, and the car became “No. 2,” further solidifying its position as a fierce competitor.

Following its factory career, chassis 004 was sold to the renowned Joest Racing team in April 1987. Under Joest Racing’s ownership, the car continued to achieve notable results, including a 2nd-place finish at the 1987 1000 Kilometres of Nürburgring. Over the years, the car’s historic significance has been recognized through appearances at prestigious events, such as the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

In 2018, Porsche Group C expert Trevor Crisp meticulously restored chassis 004, ensuring its authenticity and preserving its rich history. The restoration process involved meticulous attention to detail, reviving the car to its former glory and allowing it to continue captivating motorsport enthusiasts worldwide.

The Porsche 962 remains an enduring symbol of Porsche’s unparalleled success in endurance racing. Its revolutionary design, coupled with the achievements of legendary drivers, cements its place in motorsport history. Chassis 004, with its remarkable racing pedigree, represents a rare opportunity for enthusiasts to own a piece of automotive excellence. As the 962 continues to captivate motorsport enthusiasts, its legacy as a dominant force on the track remains firmly intact, forever etching its name in the annals of endurance racing.