Introduction
Dear Jake, welcome to our comprehensive guide on the Porsche 917 for sale kit car. As an avid car enthusiast, we believe that you are fascinated by the iconic Porsche 917 race car, which is considered one of the most successful and influential race cars in history. However, owning a genuine Porsche 917 can be a daunting challenge, given its rarity and exorbitant price tag of millions of dollars. This is where the Porsche 917 kit car comes into play as a viable alternative, which enables Porsche enthusiasts to own a replica of this legendary car at a fraction of the cost. In this article, we will provide you with a detailed analysis of the Porsche 917 for sale kit car, including its specifications, advantages, disadvantages, and frequently asked questions. We hope that this guide will help you make an informed decision on whether the Porsche 917 kit car is worth your investment.
1. What is a Porsche 917 Kit Car?
A Porsche 917 kit car is a replica of the Porsche 917 race car, which was produced by Porsche from 1969 to 1973. The kit car is designed to provide a similar driving experience and aesthetics as the original Porsche 917, but with modern materials and components. The kit car is typically sold as a package that includes a fiberglass body, chassis, suspension, brakes, and other mechanical parts, but excludes the engine and transmission.
2. Specifications of the Porsche 917 Kit Car
The specifications of the Porsche 917 kit car may vary depending on the manufacturer, but generally, it features a fiberglass body that replicates the iconic shape of the original Porsche 917. The kit car is typically based on a tube frame chassis with independent suspension, disc brakes, and rack-and-pinion steering. The interior is designed to mimic the original Porsche 917, including the dashboard, seats, and steering wheel. However, the kit car may feature modern amenities such as air conditioning, sound system, and power windows, depending on the builder’s preference.
3. Advantages of the Porsche 917 Kit Car
The Porsche 917 kit car offers several advantages over the genuine Porsche 917. Firstly, it is significantly cheaper than the real thing, with prices ranging from $50,000 to $200,000, depending on the builder and the level of customization. Secondly, the kit car is easier to maintain and repair, as it utilizes modern materials and components that are readily available. Thirdly, the kit car is street legal and can be driven on public roads, unlike the original Porsche 917, which is restricted to the race track only. Lastly, the kit car provides a similar driving experience and aesthetics as the original Porsche 917, which is a dream come true for Porsche enthusiasts who cannot afford the genuine article.
4. Disadvantages of the Porsche 917 Kit Car
Despite its advantages, the Porsche 917 kit car also has several disadvantages that potential buyers should consider. Firstly, the kit car is not a genuine Porsche 917, which may disappoint purists who value authenticity over affordability. Secondly, the kit car may not perform as well as the original Porsche 917, as it utilizes modern components that may not match the performance of the vintage parts. Thirdly, the kit car may not appreciate in value over time, unlike the genuine Porsche 917, which is a rare and sought-after collector’s item. Lastly, the kit car may require significant customization and tuning to achieve the desired performance and aesthetics, which may add to the overall cost of the project.
Porsche 917 for Sale Kit Car Information Table
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Body | Fiberglass replica of Porsche 917 |
| Chassis | Tubular steel frame with independent suspension |
| Brakes | Disc brakes with ABS |
| Steering | Rack-and-pinion steering |
| Interior | Replica of Porsche 917 interior with modern amenities |
| Engine | Not included in the kit, must be sourced separately |
| Transmission | Not included in the kit, must be sourced separately |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Porsche 917 kit car street legal?
Yes, the Porsche 917 kit car is street legal, as long as it complies with the local regulations and emission standards. However, some builders may opt to build a track-only version of the kit car, which may not be street legal.
2. Can I install a Porsche engine in the kit car?
Yes, you can install a Porsche engine in the kit car, as long as it fits the chassis and meets the performance requirements. However, some builders may opt for a non-Porsche engine, such as a Chevrolet or Ford V8, for better performance and reliability.
3. Can I customize the Porsche 917 kit car?
Yes, you can customize the Porsche 917 kit car to a certain extent, depending on the builder’s capabilities and preferences. However, some modifications may require additional time and cost, such as custom paint, wheels, and interior upgrades.
4. How much does it cost to build a Porsche 917 kit car?
The cost of building a Porsche 917 kit car may vary depending on the builder, the level of customization, and the quality of the components used. Generally, it can cost between $50,000 to $200,000, excluding the engine and transmission.
5. Can I race the Porsche 917 kit car?
Yes, you can race the Porsche 917 kit car in vintage racing events, as long as it meets the safety and performance standards of the event organizers. However, some events may require the kit car to have a genuine Porsche engine and transmission to be eligible for competition.
6. How is the Porsche 917 kit car different from other replica cars?
The Porsche 917 kit car is different from other replica cars in terms of its historical significance, rarity, and performance. The Porsche 917 race car is considered one of the most successful and influential race cars in history, and only a few genuine examples exist today. The kit car is designed to replicate the performance and aesthetics of the original Porsche 917, using modern materials and components.
7. Is it worth investing in a Porsche 917 kit car?
Whether it is worth investing in a Porsche 917 kit car depends on your personal preferences, budget, and expectations. If you are a Porsche enthusiast who dreams of owning a replica of the iconic Porsche 917, but cannot afford the genuine article, then the kit car may be a viable option. However, if you value authenticity and rarity over affordability, then the genuine Porsche 917 may be a better investment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Porsche 917 for sale kit car is a fascinating alternative for Porsche enthusiasts who crave the experience of owning and driving a replica of the legendary Porsche 917 race car. Although it has its advantages and disadvantages, the kit car offers an affordable and practical solution for those who cannot afford the genuine Porsche 917. We hope that this guide has helped you gain a better understanding of the Porsche 917 kit car, and we encourage you to take action and explore this exciting option. However, we must remind you that investing in a Porsche 917 kit car comes with risks, such as the quality of the components, reliability, and safety, and we advise you to exercise caution and due diligence before making any decisions. Thank you for reading, Jake.
