Latest news with #Porsche963RSP
Man of Many
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Man of Many
Porsche Just Built a One-of-a-Kind V8 963 Hypercar
By Somnath Chatterjee - News Published: 18 June 2025 Share Copy Link Readtime: 5 min Every product is carefully selected by our editors and experts. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more. For more information on how we test products, click here. Porsche has unveiled the 963 RSP , a one-off street-legal version of the 917 racing car that dominated motorsports across eras. , a one-off street-legal version of the 917 racing car that dominated motorsports across eras. The hypercar was built to mark 50 years since Count Rossi drove the Porsche 917 from Zuffenhausen to Paris. It comes with a hybrid V8 powertrain with roots to the 918 Spyder, alongside a 917-inspired paint job. with roots to the 918 Spyder, alongside a 917-inspired paint job. The Porsche 963 RSP was built for Roger Penske and could well be the most expensive Porsche ever made. Porsche is not playing around. This week, the fabled German automaker sent a stern message to the global high-performance market, unveiling a thinly disguised road-legal version of its extreme 963 hybrid Le Mans race car. Built for billionaire racing team owner Roger Penske, this is a one-of-a-kind ride is, aside from being the ultimate flex in the ALDI parking lot, inspired by the equally bonkers and iconic 917. 'This really started out as a 'what if?' – a passion project by a small team of enthusiasts at Penske and at Porsche who together imagined a version of the 963 that really resembled as closely as possible the spirit and appearance of the Count Rossi 917,' Porsche Cars North America president and CEO Timo Resch said. 'The 917 from the story was every inch a race car – albeit one driven on the road – and we took the same approach with the 963 RSP. It uses beautiful materials of the best quality available, but is still every bit a race car underneath.' Porsche 963 RSP | Image: Porsche A racecar, indeed. The ultra-unique 963 RSP model was reportedly developed as a sort of skunkworks project, with the ethos to stay as close to the original car as possible. Unbelievably, the hybrid V8 powertrain, which comes with a lithium-ion battery, continues to remain in race tune in the 963 RSP. The 4.6-litre twin-turbocharged V8 dishes up 680 hp and originated in the RS Spyder race program operated by Penske. As Porsche fanatics may remember, that same engine, in an enlarged form, was used in the 918 hypercar; however, where the 918 Spyder used the engine in naturally aspirated form, the 963 pairs it with two turbochargers provided by the Dutch manufacturer Van der Lee. Hence, the acceleration is violent and has nearly the same intensity as that of the race car. Crazy. Porsche 963 RSP interior | Image: Porsche With so much additional acceleration power, Porsche has understandably remapped the ECU for a (relatively) smoother power delivery, while also modifying the control unit to use headlights and indicators. Of course, if you want to drive a racing car on the road, the ride height must be increased, and the same has been done here with the adjustable Multimatic DSSV dampers. These handy additions are generally reserved for racing prototypes and in this setting, have been tuned to their softest setting. According to Porsche, this creates a more compliant ride, one that will leave your spine intact next time you go on the morning coffee run. Make no mistake, this is not a Panamera but a true hardcore machine, and the driving experience has been kept as uncorrupted as possible. Porsche 963 RSP | Image: Porsche The same goes for the design, which looks stunning, especially when clad in this 'Martini Silver' hue, which matches the 917, and it is not a wrap. To add a contrast effect, some of the components have been painted in satin black with a 3D printed '963 RSP' logo being applied to the rear of the car. The 963 RSP does have some changes over the 963, including fender vents and carbon fibre blanking plates that sit within the rear wing. To further bring it closer to the 917, the Porsche logo is enamel and not a graphic, along with 1970s-era Michelin logos for the tire walls with 18-inch tyres. Compared to the 963, the road car is far more luxurious on the inside and comes with a lovely tan interior, while the single-piece carbon seat comes trimmed in leather, no less. There is even a detachable 3D-printed cup holder, which means it is quite a practical Porsche, although luggage space is questionable. Porsche 963 RSP | Image: Porsche 'We have enjoyed a terrific relationship with Porsche dating back to 1972. The Porsche 917/30 was one of the greatest eras in Team Penske history with numerous wins and championships, along with the closed-course speed record set by Mark Donohue in 1975,' Roger Penske, chairman of the Penske Corporation said. 'With such a remarkable partnership continuing to this day, we felt it was time to create the most exciting car we could imagine. Just like the 917, I wanted this car to be authentic to its origin and have as few changes to it as possible. When we got into the project, the differences in the two generations of race cars provided a great challenge. What emerged is a car that has lost none of its edge and is exciting whether on the track or on the road.' Porsche has not revealed just how much the 963 RSP costs, but for a one-off like this, you can expect the price tag to mirror the 917. In all likelihood, the Porsche 963 RSP price could run into millions, making it one of the most expensive Porsches ever built. We're just glad such a ludicrous thing exists. Porsche 963 RSP | Image: Porsche Porsche 963 RSP | Image: Porsche
Hindustan Times
12-06-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Porsche 963 RSP unveiled as a street-ready hypercar based on Le Mans LMDh racer
The 963 RSP carries over much of the design and structure from the LMDh race car, including its carbon-fibre monocoque and aerodynamic profile Check Offers Porsche 963 RSP, a one-off road-legal prototype derived from its 963 LMDh endurance race car, has been unveiled globally. Developed to mark 50 years since the Porsche 917 driven by Count Rossi, the 963 RSP is a hybrid between a race machine and a road car. While registered for use on public roads—complete with French license plates—the car maintains its race-focused engineering and retains the core of its original competition chassis. It is scheduled to appear at major automotive events including the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Goodwood Festival of Speed, and Monterey Car Week. Porsche 963 RSP: Design The 963 RSP carries over much of the design and structure from the LMDh race car, including its carbon-fibre monocoque and aerodynamic profile. To comply with road regulations, certain modifications were made, such as closing off the wheel well vents and raising the ride height. Turn signals, number plate mounts, and other legally required elements were added. Also Read : Porsche adjusts electrification strategy with job cuts and lower sales targets The car runs on Michelin rain-spec tyres mounted on 18-inch OZ Racing wheels. These changes were aimed at ensuring legal compliance while keeping the car visually and functionally close to its racing counterpart. Porsche 963 RSP: Cabin The cabin is kept minimalist and performance-focused. The only FIA-approved racing seat, equipped with a six-point harness, is available. Alcantara and leather are selectively utilized, and the only concessions to day-to-day useability are on the steering wheel with leather grips and a 3D-printed cup holder that can be installed or removed. Standard comfort or convenience features found in production road cars are largely absent. The startup process still requires a technician and a laptop, reflecting the vehicle's original motorsport purpose. Also Read : Porsche 911 Spirit 70 unveiled at Shanghai Auto Show as homage to the '70s era Porsche 963 RSP: Specifications Underneath the bodywork, the 963 RSP is powered by a 4.6-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, originally developed for the 918 Spyder. This is paired with an 800-volt hybrid system that includes a Bosch motor and Fortescue Zero battery. Power is delivered through a 7-speed Xtrac sequential gearbox. While Porsche has not released detailed performance figures, the setup is designed for high output and rapid throttle response, consistent with the car's racing origins. Suspension tuning has been tweaked for road driving, but the mechanical setup is similar to the track model. The 963 RSP won't see series production. It remains a singular car aimed at proving the crossover between racing and road applicability of technology, as well as a historical nod within the endurance racing heritage of Porsche. Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2024, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date: 12 Jun 2025, 08:51 AM IST
NZ Autocar
11-06-2025
- Automotive
- NZ Autocar
Porsche 963 RSP is a one-off racer for the road
This road-legal racer was inspired by a similar version of the Le Mans-winning Porsche 917 built 50 years ago. Porsche has created a road-legal version of its 963 hypercar. That's the machine vying to win this year's 24 Hours of Le Mans. Only one Porsche 963 RSP has been produced. It is inspired by a similar one-off, road-legal version of the two-time Le Mans-winning Porsche 917 race car. The German company made that one 50 years ago. Porsche ensured the historic car was road legal by adding a set of exhaust silencers, extra mirrors, side indicators and a horn. However, the modifications are slightly more significant for the 963. The lightweight CF bodywork was painted in the same Martini Silver hue as the Porsche 917 race car. On the nose is an enamel Porsche badge, rather than a sticker. New vents adorn the front wings and a unique 3D printed badge they applied to the rear light bar. Forged OZ racing wheels are wrapped in 18-inch Michelin tyres with a seventies-era logo added. Inside is a bespoke, hand-made interior featuring tan leather and Alcantara upholstery. Carbon seats are air-conditioned, like the 963 race car's. Under the hood? The Porsche 963 RSP features a race-tuned 500kW hybrid powertrain. At its heart is a 4.6-litre V8 engine from the Porsche 918 Spyder supercar, boosted by two turbochargers. It can spin to over 8000rpm. The motor was remapped to make power delivery smoother and to permit the use of regular petrol. The solitary 963 RSP was commissioned by Roger Penske, whose initials 'RSP' give the car its name. The Porsche Penske Motorsport team won both the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and World Endurance Championship with the 963 last year. It is bringing three cars along to compete in Le Mans. The Porsche 963 RSP will make its public debut at the Circuit de la Sarthe during the 24 Hours of Le Mans, before returning to the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart. In July, the car will participate in the Goodwood Festival of Speed, along with the 917.
Geeky Gadgets
09-06-2025
- Automotive
- Geeky Gadgets
Porsche 963 RSP: Race Car for the Road?
The Porsche 963 RSP is a remarkable one-off creation that seamlessly merges the worlds of track-dominating race cars and road-legal vehicles. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Porsche 917 and its daring road journey half a century ago, the 963 RSP stands as a testament to Porsche's rich racing heritage and unparalleled engineering expertise. This groundbreaking vehicle is the result of a collaborative effort between Porsche AG, Porsche Penske Motorsport, and the renowned Roger Penske, showcasing the pinnacle of automotive innovation. The 963 RSP masterfully combines innovative technology with nostalgic design elements, creating a unique driving experience that pays homage to Porsche's illustrious past while embracing the future of performance engineering. Design and Engineering Excellence The Porsche 963 RSP is a true masterpiece of design and engineering, setting itself apart from its competition-focused counterparts. The exterior of the vehicle is adorned in a stunning Martini Silver paint scheme, reminiscent of the legendary 917's iconic appearance. The bodywork, crafted from ultra-lightweight carbon fiber and Kevlar®, has been carefully designed to incorporate distinctive features such as unique fender vents and a bespoke enamel Porsche badge. These elements not only enhance the car's aerodynamic performance but also add to its visual allure. Stepping inside the 963 RSP, one is greeted by an interior that seamlessly blends luxury and functionality. The cabin is appointed with a harmonious combination of tan leather and Alcantara, offering a level of comfort and refinement rarely found in race cars. Every detail, from the innovative 3D-printed cup holder to the air-conditioned carbon seat, has been carefully crafted to enhance the driver's experience behind the wheel. The attention to detail and the use of premium materials throughout the interior showcase Porsche's unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and driver-centric design. Exclusive Showcase and Limited Availability The Porsche 963 RSP is a true collector's dream, with its exclusivity and rarity adding to its allure. As a one-of-a-kind creation, the 963 RSP is not part of Porsche's regular model lineup and is not available for purchase. Instead, this extraordinary vehicle will be showcased at prestigious automotive events around the world, captivating enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Attendees of the renowned 24 Hours of Le Mans and the esteemed Goodwood Festival of Speed will have the opportunity to witness the 963 RSP in all its glory, as it takes center stage among the world's most celebrated automobiles. Following its public appearances, the Porsche 963 RSP will make its way back to Stuttgart, where it will find a permanent home at the esteemed Porsche Museum. This decision underscores the vehicle's significance as a testament to Porsche's engineering prowess and its status as a true automotive icon. Visitors to the museum will have the chance to admire the 963 RSP up close, marveling at its unique design elements and appreciating the meticulous craftsmanship that went into its creation. Cutting-Edge Technology and Performance Under the hood, the Porsche 963 RSP is powered by a formidable 4.6-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, capable of delivering approximately 680 horsepower. This potent powerplant is complemented by a sophisticated hybrid system, featuring an 800-volt electrical architecture and a 1.35 kWh battery. The integration of hybrid technology not only enhances the vehicle's performance but also demonstrates Porsche's commitment to sustainable and efficient power delivery. The 963 RSP's performance is further enhanced by its advanced transmission, a sequential seven-speed gearbox supplied by Xtrac. This state-of-the-art transmission ensures seamless and precise gear changes, allowing the driver to harness the full potential of the engine. The vehicle rides on forged OZ racing wheels, wrapped in Michelin rain-spec tires, providing exceptional grip and handling in various weather conditions. A Tribute to Porsche's Racing Heritage For automotive enthusiasts captivated by the Porsche 963 RSP, exploring the rich history of Porsche's racing endeavors is an enticing prospect. The vehicle's design and engineering draw heavily from the legendary Porsche 917, a race car that dominated the motorsport scene in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The 917's audacious road journey, undertaken 50 years ago, serves as the inspiration behind the 963 RSP's creation, highlighting Porsche's long-standing tradition of pushing the boundaries of what is possible in automotive engineering. Delving into Porsche's hybrid technology advancements is another area of interest for those fascinated by the 963 RSP. Porsche has been at the forefront of hybrid technology in motorsport, with their success in endurance racing serving as a testament to their expertise in this field. The 963 RSP's hybrid system showcases the latest advancements in electric power integration, offering a glimpse into the future of high-performance vehicles. For those intrigued by the engineering behind endurance race cars, the Porsche 963 RSP serves as a prime example of the innovative technology and meticulous design that goes into creating these purpose-built machines. From the lightweight materials used in its construction to the advanced aerodynamics and powertrain technologies, the 963 RSP embodies the pinnacle of motorsport engineering. A Glimpse into the Future of Performance The Porsche 963 RSP is more than just a one-off creation; it represents a bold step into the future of performance vehicles. By seamlessly blending race-proven technology with road-going comfort and refinement, the 963 RSP showcases the potential for high-performance automobiles to transcend the boundaries between track and street. As automotive enthusiasts continue to seek out vehicles that offer uncompromising performance, innovative technology, and exclusive design, the Porsche 963 RSP stands as a beacon of inspiration. Its creation demonstrates the endless possibilities that arise when passion, innovation, and engineering excellence converge. While the 963 RSP may not be available for purchase, its impact on the automotive world is undeniable. It serves as a testament to Porsche's unwavering commitment to pushing the limits of what is possible in automotive design and engineering. As the brand continues to innovate and evolve, the legacy of the 963 RSP will undoubtedly influence future generations of high-performance vehicles, both on and off the track. In conclusion, the Porsche 963 RSP is a remarkable achievement that showcases the very best of Porsche's engineering prowess and racing heritage. Its unique blend of nostalgic design elements, innovative technology, and uncompromising performance makes it a true icon in the world of automotive excellence. As enthusiasts continue to marvel at this extraordinary creation, the Porsche 963 RSP will forever stand as a symbol of the brand's relentless pursuit of perfection and its ability to create vehicles that captivate the hearts and minds of car lovers around the world. Source Porsche Filed Under: Auto News, Gadgets News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Scottish Sun
08-06-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Porsche unveils road-legal hypercar 50 years after original won world titles – but there's a catch
The new motor features significant changes from the original race-winner CARN'T BELIEVE IT Porsche unveils road-legal hypercar 50 years after original won world titles – but there's a catch Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) PORSCHE has shocked the motoring world by unveiling a new road legal hypercar. What's more is that it's spun off the a motor that's won multiple endurance racing world titles - but there's a catch. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Porsche has revealed a new road legal hypercar Credit: PA 2 It's based on a trailblazing motor that won multiple endurance racing titles Credit: PA The Porsche 963 RSP is unlike anything you can currently purchase - because only one has been made. It's a version of the manufacturers WEC and ISMA championship winning machine. And it's been built to mark 50 years since Count Rossi drove the trailblazing Porsche 917 from Zuffenhausen to Paris. Like that all-conquering motor, this one's been made road legal. Porsche's North American boss Timo Resch said: "How could we reimagine the 917's story in today's time? "The 917 from the story was every inch a race car – albeit one driven on the road – and we took the same approach with the 963 RSP. "It uses beautiful materials of the best quality available, but is still every bit a race car underneath." The 963 features significant changes over the car on which its based. In terms of the engine, the carmaker had to allow the 4.5-litre, twin-turbo V8 hybrid to run on regular unleaded rather than race fuel. While not an easy undertaking, the 918 Spyder-derived V8, e-motor and battery combo delivers a whopping 671bhp. Inside Taycan Turbo GT Porsche that can hit 200mph as SunSport's Isabelle Barker is taken for a spin by Formula E safety car driver The road height was also adjusted to make it suitable for general roads and the dampers softened. The control unit was reprogrammed too to allow for the headlights and taillights to operate closer to those of a motor on the road. But its the interior that departs most from the original race car. In the entirely bespoke cabin, you'll find soft tan leather with a single piece driver's seat clad with additional cushioning and a fixed headrest. You'll find a special panel next to the driver that stores the steering wheel as well as a helmet and car aficionados will spot the nods to the 917. The biggest tribute comes in the form of the exterior colour that's the same 'Martini Silver' as Count Rossi's 917. This one's been painted too, a unique challenge because of the carbon fibre and Kevlar bodywork. The bodywork also had to be modified to cover the wheel arches, headlights and tail lights added as well as closed-off banking plates on the rear wing and mounting points for the license plates. An enamel Porsche badge can be found on the nose and proper wet road tyres wrapped around 18 inch racing wheels. ONE-OF-A-KIND 'SPECIAL' MOTOR The 963 RSP gets its name from the involvement of American auto racing team owner Roger Searle Penske on the project. Resch explained he called on Penske for "support" in the car's construction, with the racing expert ensuring the classic race car's character was not changed for the new model. The Porsche boss said that as Penske's involvement increased, the company realised he would be the perfect, and only, customer for the car. So while it was never intended to be a fully road-legal 963, Porsche received an exemption from the EPA in the US as it understood "how special" the car is. Despite this, it is not a fully road-registered car - and it needed special dispensation to run in France at the Le Mans 24hr weekend. For now, the car is expected to remain one-of-a-kind, with a Porsche spokesperson telling Top Gear that wide-scale selling would "change the character" of the iconic motor.
