The trailblazer returns - 50 years of the Porsche 917
- 5 years ago
The first Porsche 917, from 1969, is being restored to its original condition using state-of-the-art technology and old-fashioned elbow grease.
On the evening of 10 March 1969, mere months after Hans Mezger's initial ideas and design sketches, the first Porsche 917 with chassis number 001 is completed - with just two days to go before the official press event showcasing the new Porsche Group 4 sports cars at the Geneva Auto Show, scheduled for 3 p.m. on 12 March 1969. Not long afterwards, on 21 April 1969, the 25 units necessary to meet regulations are finally completed; the 917 receives homologation certification from the official motorsport bodies, and is thereby approved for racing.
On the evening of 10 March 1969, mere months after Hans Mezger's initial ideas and design sketches, the first Porsche 917 with chassis number 001 is completed - with just two days to go before the official press event showcasing the new Porsche Group 4 sports cars at the Geneva Auto Show, scheduled for 3 p.m. on 12 March 1969. Not long afterwards, on 21 April 1969, the 25 units necessary to meet regulations are finally completed; the 917 receives homologation certification from the official motorsport bodies, and is thereby approved for racing.