Porsche 959 '87

aspiration

TC (Turbocharger)

Group

Gr.N

Displacement

2,850 cc

DriveTrain

4WD

Height

1,280 mm

Length

4,260 mm

Weight

1,450 kg

Width

1,840 mm

Max Power

443 BHP / 7,000 rpm

Max Torque

51.0 kgfm / 5,500 rpm

Performance Point

PP 569.17

Manufacturer

Porsche

Porsche 959 '87: A Legend of Performance and Innovation

The Porsche 959 '87 stands as one of the most iconic supercars of its era, representing a monumental leap in automotive engineering during the 1980s. Introduced at a time when the concept of an all-wheel-drive, turbocharged sports car was still radical, the 959 was Porsche's showcase for the future of high-performance technology. Developed originally for Group B rallying, the production version debuted in 1987, combining the brand’s racing pedigree with unprecedented road-going sophistication.

At the heart of the Porsche 959 '87 is a 2.85-liter, twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, producing an astonishing 450 horsepower—figures that placed it among the world’s fastest production cars. What truly set the 959 apart, however, was its advanced all-wheel-drive system, automatic ride-height adjustment, and pioneering use of lightweight materials like Kevlar and aluminum. These innovations not only delivered blistering performance—a 0-60 mph sprint in under 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 197 mph—but also unparalleled handling and drivability for its time.

While the Porsche 959 '87 saw limited action in rallying due to the cancellation of Group B, it achieved legendary status with its dominating performance at the Paris-Dakar Rally, where its rugged derivatives took overall victory in 1986. In terms of road-legal production, only 337 units were built, making it a rare and highly sought-after collector’s piece among enthusiasts and connoisseurs. The 959's influence runs deep within Porsche’s lineup, laying the groundwork for all subsequent high-technology models, most notably the 911 Turbo, GT2, and the Carrera GT.

Today, the Porsche 959 '87 remains a symbol of technical prowess and ambitious vision. Its blend of racing technology, everyday usability, and exclusivity has cemented its status as one of the greatest sports cars ever made. The 959's aura continues to captivate car enthusiasts and remains a golden reference point whenever discussions arise about the world’s most groundbreaking supercars.