"Porsche 963 RSP: A Unique Road-Legal Race Car Honoring the Legendary 917"

In an exceptional move that blends racing heritage with bold innovation, Porsche has unveiled a unique vehicle named the 963 RSP. This car is a modified version of the famous 963 LMDh race car, but designed to be street-legal. This vehicle is not just a special edition or limited run; it is a one-off masterpiece created to honor Porsche’s rich endurance racing history, specifically as a tribute to the legendary Count Rossi 917, which was converted into a road car fifty years ago.

Honoring the Legend: From Track to Road

The idea to produce the 963 RSP came from Timo Resch, CEO of Porsche North America, who wanted to revive the spirit of the Count Rossi 917 through a modern car that represents the pinnacle of technology and performance. The car was dedicated to businessman and racing driver Roger Penske, owner of Team Penske, which manages Porsche’s cars in IMSA and WEC championships. Penske’s involvement reflects the close relationship between racing success and engineering excellence in Porsche’s history.

Design That Respects the Original and Celebrates Luxury

Porsche retained the original car’s identity by using a carbon fiber and Kevlar chassis with minor modifications to better suit road use, such as wider wheel arch covers, new ventilation openings, and a modified rear wing. The exterior color “Martini Silver” with satin black accents directly draws inspiration from classic race cars.

Inside, the cabin blends sporty character with luxury, featuring natural leather and light brown Alcantara. The seats are carbon fiber derived from the race version but with luxurious hand-padded upholstery and fixed headrests. Even small details like the air vents are designed to resemble the fan blades of the 917’s engine, while a metal plaque displays the chassis number, manufacturing date, and place.

Technical Adjustments for Daily Driving

Although the 963 RSP retains most of its racing components, Porsche made important modifications to make it more suitable for driving off the track. The car is equipped with 18-inch OZ wheels fitted with Michelin rain tires, ground clearance has been raised, and suspension settings softened. Additional features include a horn, license plate mounts, and lighting software tweaks to enable turn signals.

The powertrain combines a 4.6-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 671 horsepower with a hybrid electric system and a seven-speed sequential gearbox. The electric motor and rear generator have been reprogrammed to deliver smoother power, and the engine can now run on regular pump fuel, making the car more practical for road use.

Unique Driving Experience and Special Permit

The 963 RSP received a special permit from French authorities allowing it to be driven on public roads under specific conditions and local requirements, though it is not fully licensed for everyday use. Timo Bernhard, a three-time Le Mans winner, described driving it alongside the original 917 as “an unforgettable moment,” noting that the car is friendlier and more comfortable than the race version while maintaining a pure performance feel.

Absolute Exclusivity and Collector’s Icon

Porsche will not produce any additional units of the 963 RSP and has not disclosed the development cost, but its price undoubtedly exceeds most of the company’s production cars. The vehicle will be temporarily displayed at the Le Mans circuit during the 24 Hours race, then moved to the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart before appearing at the Goodwood Festival of Speed alongside the original 917.

Between Passion and Innovation

The Porsche 963 RSP embodies the pinnacle of engineering passion and deep racing heritage, redefining the limits of what can be achieved when modern technology meets historic legacy. It is not just a car but a mechanical and artistic masterpiece that tells a unique story, proving Porsche’s continued ability to amaze the world with its innovations, even in the era of hybrids and strict regulations.