It is a model from the Porsche factories which will undoubtedly have had the most famous life.
Flanked by chassis number 917-022, this Porsche 917K built in 1969 had the no less famous Steve McQueen as its first owner via Solar Productions. In what perspective? The one from the film Le Mans.
The feature film was notably shot during the 1970 24 Hours of Le Mans with the 917 adorned with its legendary Gulf Oil livery and the colors blue and orange.
© Mecum Auctions
As soon as the film is over, this chassis 917-022 begins a new life. Reinhold Joest bought the car in 1971 and entered it in a competitive campaign. Brian Redman took over the car in 1975 for two years before Richard Attwood purchased it in 1977 to keep this driving legend until 2000.
Owned by Jerry Seinfeld since 2001, the car has regularly appeared in several events such as the Monterey Historic Automobile Races, Pebble Beach and the Porsche Rennsport Reunion.
Restored to the condition it was in 1970 during the filming of the film, with the help of the company Cavaglieri Restorations (with the help of Ed Pink Racing Engines for the 12-cylinder engine block), this 917K has regained its Gulf livery and will be auctioned on January 18 by Mecum Auctions, during the Kissimmee session in Florida.
