EXCELLENCE RSR
The May 2011 issue of Excellence: The Magazine About Porsche is hitting the newsstands now. It features an article of mine titled “The Forgotten One,” which covers a 911 tribute car built by Sam Gassel.
Congratulations to Sam on his amazing recreation of the #6 Penske Sunoco Porsche Carrera RSR. He is one of those guys who makes my job a dream, and he’s deserving of every accolade for a job well done. I wish everyone could see this car in the flesh. It is mind-boggling good. Thanks also to Excellence for continuing to publish my photos and writings on these homages to historic 911s.
Here’s a bit of history on the original car: In 1973 at the 24 Hours of Daytona race, the Penske Sunoco RSR was leading the sister prototype Brumos entry for overall victory by over a lap with just a few hours to go. But engine failure due to an improperly machined valve relief handed the historic race win to fellow Americans Peter Gregg and Hurley Haywood. They were piloting the now famous #59 Brumos RSR with white red and blue colors – a silhouette that has come to symbolize “winning†to many Porsche fans. After Daytona, the Sunoco blue Carrera was unceremoniously sold off to Penske’s friend, Al Holbert, who repaired the motor, modified the body, and managed to drive the car to four podium finishes during the 1973 Trans-Am season. Unfortunately, Milt Minter crashed the luckless RSR heavily at round 6 in Edmonton, Canada, writing the car off.
Also included in this issue of Excellence is a market update on Early 911s. Looks like they are not forgotten and back in favor!