Porsche began the development of the 959 in 1981. This new car
was to feature an all-wheel-drive transmission and compete in
Group B rally racing where the all wheel drive layout could
be tested and enhanced. The road legal version of the Porsche
959 was first revealed in 1985 at the Frankfurt Auto Show as
a1986 model. In total only around 250 Porsche 959's and the
race variant, the 961, were made.
Powered by a twin turbocharged
2.8 litre flat 6 engine, the 959's body was constructed from
aluminium and Kevlar composite with a Nomex floor. This lightweight
yet incredibly strong chassis helped the Porsche 959 achive
its staggering performance, 197 + mph top speed, and 0-60 mph
in around 3.6 seconds.
The engineering and aerodynamic technologys which the 959 helped
to develop throughout its racing career influenced and shaped
all Porsche models, but more specifically the legendary 911,
which might not be quite as good as it is today if it were not
for the 959.