Porsche 959

The Porsche 959 was presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1983. His real goal was to achieve the homologation to be able to compete in German Tourism Group B races and Rally competitions. The 959 possessed very advanced technology, achieved after years of development in the field of racing.

This technology showed aerodynamic advances, electronically controlled all-wheel drive, sports suspension with 2 shock absorbers per wheel, “smart” gearbox and a 6-cylinder boxer engine mounted on a tubular sub-chassis.

The Porsche 959 body was ultra-light. It had doors and bonnet made of alloy, which had a very low weight, 60 percent lighter than the same panels as the 911 back then. Other body panels were constructed of fiberglass and Kevlar, which increased strength by reducing weight.

While his participation in the races was brief, this car marked a milestone in the history of super sports.

Specifications of the Porsche 959

Boxer engine 6 cylinders (biturbo) 2.851 cm3
2 KKK turbines and intercoolers
4 valves per cylinder
Injection Bosch Motronic
Power: 450 hp at 6.500 rpm
Torque: 370 lbs ft at 5,500 rpm
6-speed manual gearbox
4-wheel drive

Performance of the Porsche 959

Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h: 3.6 sec.
Quarter mile: 12.0 sec.
Top speed: 306 km/h

Dimensions of the Porsche 959

Length: 4.260 mm
Width: 1.840 mm
Height: 1.280 mm
Weight: 1.450 kg
Rims: 17 inches

Additional information

© Adrián Blanco 2006 — Prohibited the total or partial reproduction of text and/or images without explicit written consent of the author. —

por Adrian Blanco