The Porsche 959 “Vorserie” is one of those vehicles that arouses the passion and desire of the world’s wealthiest collectors . With only five units in the world, this model is a piece of automotive engineering from the 80s that stands out for its exclusivity, design and performance. To manufacture this sports car, Porsche selected chassis from the Porsche 930 Turbo and assembled a car that was not only attractive to the eye but also impressive in its mechanical performance.
Equipped with a twin-turbocharged 2.9-litre six-cylinder boxer engine, the Porsche 959 “Vorserie” can develop more than 440 hp. This engine, along with its aerodynamic design and select materials, allowed the car to compete with other motorsport giants, such as Ferrari and Lamborghini. Presenting a car that was as functional as it was attractive was a challenge that Porsche mastered masterfully, turning the 959 “Vorserie” into an automotive jewel and a masterpiece of engineering.
Porsche 959 Vorserie: From the Track to the Road
The 1985 Porsche 959 “Vorserie”, especially in its dazzling white version, was an ambitious project by the German brand to bring V-Series racing supercars to the roads. This model from the 80s is a clear example of how the automotive engineering of the time could be ahead of its time. The growing trend of homogenization in the automotive industry has increased the value of these rarities with peculiar histories. This 959, with its price of 1.5 million euros, is a clear example of how a vehicle can become a coveted part due to its uniqueness and rich past.
Development of the Porsche 959 “Vorserie” began a year before series production of the 959 model began. Porsche divided the chassis of the Porsche 930 Turbo into three groups: F-Series, N-Series and V-Series. The V-Series was the closest to the final production version and only five units of these prototypes survive today. This V-Series pre-series prototype was one of the previous steps before the legendary 959 model went into mass production.
During its testing phase, the Porsche 959 “Vorserie” was used to push the chassis, suspension and control to the limit, subjecting it to rigorous tests on circuits and long journeys around Europe. These tests not only validated the vehicle’s robustness and performance, but also helped to refine it before series production. The combination of its exclusivity, historic development and exceptional performance make it an automotive jewel worthy of the most exclusive collectors.
A Benchmark for Design and Technology
The 959 “Vorserie” is more than just a pretty face; He is a pioneer in automotive design and technology. Equipped with a twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter six-cylinder boxer engine, this car could develop more than 440 hp. This power positioned it as a direct competitor to the giants of the time, such as Ferrari and Lamborghini. The ability of this engine not only spoke to its speed and acceleration, but also to its ability to maintain consistent and reliable performance over time. In addition to its impressive engine, the 959 “Vorserie” incorporated four-wheel drive, an advanced technology for its time that guaranteed safe and precise driving under various conditions.
What makes this model even more special is that it was the only vehicle from the pre-series to be documented and photographed exclusively by Porsche test driver Dieter Röscheisen. This detailed documentation adds historical value and authenticity to the car, making this unit an even more coveted treasure. After completing its testing phase, this vehicle was handed over to Ferdinand Piëch, grandson of the founder of Porsche, who used it as his private car. This fact adds another layer of prestige and exclusivity to his already impressive resume. The combination of its innovative design, advanced technology and rich history has cemented it as an undisputed benchmark in the automotive industry.
The Story Behind the V5KOM Supercar
Of the five surviving 959 “Vorserie” models, one of the most notable is the one known as the “V5KOM”. This vehicle was used on various circuits such as Ehra-Lessien, Nürburgring and Contidrome, pushing its chassis, suspension and traction control to the limit. These rigorous tests were not only a demonstration of its capability, but also a guarantee of its performance and robustness. The “V5KOM” is unique in that it was documented and photographed exclusively by Porsche test driver Dieter Röscheisen, who captured every detail of its revolutionary design and operation.
Originally finished in Grand Prix White and featuring a dark grey Komfort fabric interior, the “V5KOM” is not just a production car; It’s a piece of automotive history. This car had several prominent owners, including Ferdinand Piëch, grandson of Porsche’s founder, who drove it until 1987. Its use and maintenance by such influential people adds an extra layer of exclusivity and prestige. Not only did this model contribute to bringing racing supercars to the streets, but it also became a symbol of innovation and excellence in automotive engineering, with each piston working in perfect harmony to deliver an unrivalled driving experience.
A Treasure at the Auction
Recently, one of these automotive jewels has gone up for auction through RM Sotheby’s. With less than 80,000 km on its odometer, this well-preserved example has passed through the hands of several collectors, including renowned chef Hasi Unterberger and car photographer Rene Staud. This Porsche is distinguished not only by its ability to compete with the best of its era, but also by being part of the select series of prototypes of the F, N and V series. Its undeniable exclusivity and rich history make the Porsche 959 “Vorserie” a true masterpiece of automotive engineering that continues to capture the imagination and interest of motor enthusiasts worldwide.
With its combination of rarity, history and performance, the Porsche 959 “Vorserie” remains an icon of motorsport and a treasure trove for any private collection. From its futuristic design to the technical details under the hood, every aspect of this vehicle has been meticulously designed to deliver an unparalleled driving experience. Today, this model is one of the few still in circulation, and its presence in the auction market reaffirms its status as a highly coveted asset.
