An ‘80s supercar hallmark, Porsche’s 959 has long been among its most highly-coveted models. Released at a time when barriers of speed were constantly being challenged by the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini, the German marque had, at the time of its release, the fastest production car ever. Fewer than 350 959s were produced in just seven years and the car was never officially certified for sale in the U.S.
Enter the 959 Sport, which was Porsche’s attempt at introducing the 959 to the American market as a race car. While the powertrain was essentially left alone, the front seats were given racing harnesses and the back seats were ditched. Likewise, the car got the addition of an “S” steering wheel, a roll bar structure, and an improved suspension. If the 959 weren’t scarce enough, the 959 S is even rarer, with just 29 examples coming off the line in total. 12 pre-production F-series prototypes were also made for the 959, and yet only three were for the 959 S — one of which is up for sale today via Girardo & Co.
200lbs lighter than its production counterpart, this 1985 prototype — dubbed the F9 — is arguably the fastest 959 ever made. When it finally came out, the 959 S didn’t have the Komfort trim package. And yet, this F9 sports that carpeted leather interior. Likewise, there are ducts for air conditioning, even though they don’t function, and, even stranger, a four-wheel-drive option.
Acquired by Vasek Polak as a gift from Porsche for his part in helping develop the 959, this 959 S F9 came with strict instructions by the company not to drive it. Mostly kept on display all these years, this beautiful example is finally up for sale and is currently held in England. Head over to Girardo & Co. to inquire about pricing.
