PORSCHE CARRERA GT
After Porsche’s thrilling triumph at the 1998 24 Hours of Le Mans, in which the purpose-developed 911 GT1 secured a dominating 1-2 finish, much discussion mounted about the potential build of a commemorative racing model. At the Paris Salon two years later, Stuttgart unveiled a new concept car, a supercar project that eventually became the Carrera GT.
Available for deliveries in 2004, the Carrera GT was clearly predicated on the race car principles of low weight and extreme power, starting with a 100kg tub of carbonfibre reinforced plastic (CFRP). The lightweight material also composed the engine subframe.
Originally developed as a Le Mans prototype engine, the 5.7-litre aluminium V10 utilised an unusual vee angle of 68 degrees and employed aluminium pistons and an aluminium intake manifold, titanium connecting rods, and a forged crankshaft to maintain a low weight. Dry-sump lubrication allowed for the rear-placed motor to lie very low within its subframe, and a carbon ceramic clutch and low-mass flywheel contributed to free-revving low-inertia performance encapsulated by a redline of 8400rpm. Developing 597bhp at 8000rpm and 435lb ft torque, the V10 was mated to a six-speed manual transaxle.
Through four years of specialised production, just 1270 examples of the
Carrera GT were built worldwide, and 644 were specified for the United States.
Claiming important ownership provenance and minimal use, this well-maintained Carrera GT is a highly desirable example of the venerable 2000s Porsche supercar. Chassis no. 001301 is a Us-spec example that was factory finished in black paint over a dark grey leather interior and optioned with a carbon-fibre steering wheel and matching gearshift knob. As demonstrated by a title on file, the car was delivered new to Antoine “Tony” Kanaan, the famous open-wheel race car driver who won the 2013 Indianapolis 500 and was champion of the Indycar Series in 2004.
Experiencing a life of mild use and fastidious upkeep, the Porsche was subsequently imported to Canada and currently displays 2540 miles. It had recently
undergone an inspection by Porsche Calgary, and the clutch was deemed to be within the manufacturer’s recommended tolerances, while minor repairs were made to the spoiler and a fluid service was performed. The car is currently fitted with a Tubi exhaust system, although the original factory unit is included with the sale. Furthermore, the car includes its original owner’s manuals, car cover and partial matching luggage set.
PORSCHE CARRERA GT
Sale lot no: 164
Year: 2005
Chassis no: WP0CA29805L001301
Auction: RM Sotheby’s, Arizona Sale
Where: Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa, Phoenix, USA
When: 17th January
Pre-sale estimate: $750,000–$850,00 (£577,800–£654,800)
Sold for: $786,000 (£605,500)