GREATNESS // THE PARIS-DAKAR PORSCHE 959

Powered by a 444hp, twin-turbocharged, 2.8-liter flat six, which was mated to a six-speed gearbox and Porsches new all-wheel drive system, the Porsche 959 was not only a potent supercar, but a well developed rally competitor. Built to compete in Group B rally competitions, with a street version derived later to meet FIA homologation regulations (which required that a minimum of 200 street legal units be built), the Porsche 959 was the go-anywhere, do it all supercar.

In 1984 three 911's were modified to 959 specs and were entered in the Paris-Dakar Rally. At the wheel of Porsche's 911-959 variant, it was René Metge and Dominique Lemoyne who would cross the finish line first in Dakar. But by 1985, when the rally prepped 959 was finally completed, all three entries in that years Paris-Dakar Rally were unable to finish. The following year however, Porsche would collect their second Paris-Dakar win, when Metge and Lemoyne took the checkered flag once again. 1986 was also the year the Porsche 961, a road racing variant of the 959, was entered into the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Driven by René Metge and Claude Ballot-Léna, the 961 managed to finish first in its class and 7th overall.

Click here for additional information on the Porsche 959 // [comment]