15 Porsches That Cost A Fortune
Porsche is remarked for its precision engineering, innovative design, and motorsport excellence. Its cars have left an unforgettable impression on automotive history and influenced performance standards worldwide. The rarity, racing pedigree, and groundbreaking technology in certain models make them highly coveted and costly. Discover some of the most expensive Porsches ever built.
1970 Porsche 917K: $16 million to $18 million
The 1970 Porsche 917K is the hero car in Steve McQueen’s film Le Mans. This model features a 4.5-liter flat-12 engine, which was later upgraded to 4.9 liters, and it won seven out of ten races in the 1970 championship season.
1982 Porsche 956: $10 million
The 1982 Porsche 956 was a dominant force in endurance racing. Only ten factory examples were built, with chassis number 956-003 being particularly notable. It was designed by Norbert Singer and was notable for its aluminum monocoque chassis, which was a first for Porsche.
1956 Porsche 550 Spyder: $5.3 million
The legendary 1956 Porsche 550 Spyder is known for its lightweight design and racing pedigree. It is associated with actor James Dean, who tragically died in a crash while driving one. Only 99 units were produced, and the Spyder’s victories at Le Mans underscore its historical significance.
1972 Porsche 917/10 Spyder: $5.3 million
Designed for the Can-Am series, the 1972 Porsche 917/10 Spyder featured lightweight construction and could sprint to 100 mph in about 2.9 seconds. Engineers Hans Mezger and Helmut Flegl directed its design, which contributed to the Spyder’s impressive performance and handling characteristics.
1960 Porsche RS60: $6 million
Also known as the 718 RS60, this model is a highly sought-after sports car known for its exceptional racetrack performance. Only 18 units were produced, with six delivered to the US. Launched in 1960, the RS60 was designed to comply with new FIA regulations requiring larger cockpits and windshields.
1964 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS: $2.5 million
All 126 units of the 1964 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS were each designed to compete in the FIA-GT class. Representing Porsche’s first foray into fiberglass construction and mid-engine design, the vehicle won the Targa Florio outright in 1963 and secured class victories at Le Mans.
1955 Porsche 356A Speedster: $590,000
This model features a 55-horsepower 1.5-liter engine, a top speed of 99 mph, and a distinctive cut-down windshield. The current market price for a well-restored example is approximately $469,356, although some models sell for as high as $590,000 in recent auctions.
Porsche 918 Spyder Weissach Package: $1.4 million
Priced at approximately $1.4 million, the Weissach Package enhances the 918 Spyder by reducing its weight by about 90 pounds. This weight reduction is achieved through the extensive use of carbon fiber and magnesium components, which improves handling and contributes to its impressive acceleration.
1988 Porsche 959 Komfort: $2 million
Porsche designed the 959 Komfort primarily for the Group B racing homologation. Only 292 units were released, featuring sophisticated all-wheel-drive systems, adjustable suspension, and lightweight construction. Despite its high production costs, Porsche reportedly lost money on each sale due to the 959’s advanced technology and performance capabilities.
1998 Porsche 911 GT1 Strassenversion: $3 million
Although only one 911 GT1 Strassenversion was released, the car is still considered a rare gem. Its striking design included roof-mounted air intakes, which enhanced its aesthetics and aerodynamics. Porsche built this model to compete against formidable rivals like the Toyota GT-One and Mercedes-Benz CLK LM.
1966 Porsche 906 Carrera 6: $2.205 million
The 906 Carrera 6’s lightweight multi-tubular spaceframe chassis contributed to its remarkable power-to-weight ratio. When it debuted at the 24 Hours of Daytona, the Carrera 6 finished sixth overall and won its class. This was followed by victories at the Targa Florio and Sebring.
Porsche 911 Reimagined by Singer: $3.6 million
Each Porsche 911 Reimagined model is tailored to the owner’s specifications. They feature a lightweight carbon-fiber body, an upgraded interior, and a hand-built engine that can produce up to 390 horsepower from a 4.0-liter flat-six configuration. Prices vary significantly based on customization options.
1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7: $1 million
Porsche planned to produce 500 units of the Carrera RS 2.7 but ended up manufacturing 1,580 due to overwhelming demand. The model was the first 911 to bear the “Carrera” name. Its iconic “ducktail” spoiler was developed to enhance aerodynamics and on-track performance.
Porsche 935 Street: $2.4 million
A highly exclusive vehicle, the 935 Street is a street-legal version of the race car originally developed for racing. 77 units of this model were produced, with the latest iteration featuring a 690-horsepower 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine and a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission.
1969 Porsche 911 S: $369,000
This model marked the transition to mechanical fuel injection, which boosted power output to 170 horsepower. The 911 S was also recognized for its racing history, having competed successfully at the Acropolis Rally and Le Mans. It also featured the Fuchs wheels, which were designed to improve brake cooling.