The Porsche 959 is more than just a car; it’s a symbol of automotive engineering at its peak. This particular model, chassis number 185, is steeped in motorsport history, having finished second in the grueling 1986 Paris-Dakar Rally. Driven by Jacky Ickx and Claude Brasseur, this 959 faced thousands of miles of unforgiving terrain and emerged as one of the most celebrated rally cars ever built.
The 959’s Dakar Legacy
Porsche’s dominance in the Paris-Dakar Rally during the 1980s was cemented by the 959. The team secured victories in both 1984 and 1986, proving that their engineering could conquer the world’s toughest off-road race. The road-legal version of the 959, built between 1986 and 1993, is rare, but the Rothmans-liveried rally cars are legendary.
Sympathetic Recommissioning
Recently, car number 185 underwent a careful recommissioning rather than a full restoration. The process involved a complete disassembly, inspection, and replacement of worn parts, including bearings, seals, and hoses. Despite enduring over 8,700 miles of brutal racing across the African savannah, the car remained remarkably well-preserved.
Preserving Racing History
Porsche has chosen to leave the winning 1986 Paris-Dakar 959 untouched, preserving its race-worn condition as a historical artifact. However, recommissioning the second-place car allows enthusiasts to see and hear a fully functional, race-ready 959 in action.
The Porsche 959 is a reminder of an era where automakers pushed engineering limits without compromise. Its performance on both asphalt and dirt remains unmatched, making it an iconic machine.
The recommissioning video provides a rare glimpse into the inner workings of this legendary rally car, offering a soothing experience for automotive enthusiasts. The 959 isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a piece of motorsport history that continues to inspire awe.
