This special edition named the 911 GT3 RS is a Tribute to Jo Siffert, a testament to Siffert's enduring legacy in the world of motorsport.
Honoring a Racing Pioneer
Jo Siffert's contributions to Porsche are monumental. His skill and input helped transform the Porsche 917 from a challenging car to a winner, securing its first victory at the Österreichring near Zeltweg, Austria, in 1969. This triumph marked the beginning of the 917's dominance in endurance racing, including legendary events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Nürburgring 1000 km.
The Special Edition 911 GT3 RS
Developed through Porsche's Sonderwunsch in-house personalization program, the 911 GT3 RS Tribute to Jo Siffert features a livery inspired by the victorious 917 driven by Siffert and his teammate Kurt Ahrens. The collaboration with Siffert’s family, including his son Philippe and grandson Jérémy, ensured that the tribute car accurately reflects the spirit and design of the original race car.
The car also boasts sponsorship logos from Bosch and Shell, meticulously crafted to match those on the historic 917. Adding a personal touch, Siffert’s autograph is embossed on the center console cover and the leather key case.
Performance and Specifications
Under the hood, the special edition 911 GT3 RS is powered by a 4.0-liter flat-six engine delivering 518 horsepower. Coupled with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the car accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just three seconds, with a top speed of 184 mph. This performance aligns with the standard of the 992-generation 911 GT3 RS, ensuring that the tribute is not only visually stunning but also a high-performing machine.
Public Display and Purchase
The 911 GT3 RS Tribute to Jo Siffert will be showcased at various Porsche dealerships across Switzerland throughout August, before making an appearance at the Zürich Auto Show from November 7-10. Following its tour, the car will be sold to a buyer selected at random from a pool of interested parties, offering a unique opportunity for one lucky enthusiast to own a piece of racing history.
Jo Siffert's Legacy
Jo Siffert's racing career was marked by numerous victories and a relentless passion for the sport. He competed in almost 300 races over 11 years, often participating in multiple events over a single weekend. Tragically, his life was cut short in a crash during a Formula 1 race at Brands Hatch in 1971, when he was just 35 years old.
The 911 GT3 RS Tribute to Jo Siffert stands as a fitting homage to a driver whose impact on Porsche and motorsport remains significant. This special edition not only celebrates his achievements but also preserves his memory for future generations of racing enthusiasts.