"Budget estimate for a works competition Porsche - not so valuable that you would not want to exercise it on the track..."

Chassis: WP0AA0953GN15006

One of the Earliest 944 Turbo Cup Cars
Imported by Porsche Motor Sport North America in 1985
Accompanied by Porsche Certificate of Authenticity
Documented Ownership and Showing Less than 13,600 Original Miles
A Factory Engineered and Built Lightweight Racing Porsche

When Porsche set its sights on SCCA club racing, it created a limited-edition competition version of its popular 944 Coupe to do battle on US racetracks. In May 1985, seven prototype cars – including this example – were produced by Porsche’s development center in Weissach, Germany, and sent to Al Holbert’s Porsche Motor Sport North America division in Pennsylvania. Designated for the GT class in the SCCA’s Endurance Championship, the cars were delivered to independent racers around the country. Chassis 0066 was first sold to Robert J. Nelson of the Schneider-Nelson Porsche dealership in New Jersey, who actively campaigned the car from 1985 to 1987 before passing it to Porsche collector Prescott Kelly in 1988. To stay competitive, 0066 was upgraded to 1987 Turbo Cup specifications, but, remarkably, retains its original works engine.

A Porsche factory-built lightweight racer, the 944 is devoid of many interior components, including air-conditioning, sunroof, and sound insulation, and features an eight-point Matter roll cage, Recaro driver’s seat, race harness, and a fire-suppression system. The 16″ forged Fuchs wheels utilize oversize tires for superior track handling.

Offered from a collection that includes two other Weissach-built prototypes, this Porsche 944 Turbo Cup is resplendent in the livery of its first race team. This rare and distinctive machine represents a well-documented competition Porsche prototype. It is well suited to be enjoyed at speed by a fortunate new owner, perhaps even at Rennsport Reunion later this year.

The Scottsdale Auctions
January 19 & 20, 2018