The Porsche 959 stands as an iconic symbol of the ’80s, serving as the poster car for a generation. Unlike fleeting trends, this timeless masterpiece is a vehicle that many enthusiasts would eagerly embrace for another exhilarating spin. And as luck would have it, you now have the opportunity to own one of these legendary cars as a 1987 Porsche 959 Komfort is headed for auction this week on January 25 and is expected to fetch somewhere between $1,700,000 – $1,850,000.
The Porsche 959, a groundbreaking marvel of automotive engineering, revolutionized the sports car landscape in the late 1980s. Its technological innovations, now commonplace in modern supercars, set it apart from its rivals like the Ferrari F40 and Lamborghini Countach, known for their raw simplicity.
The 959 featured a flat-6 engine derived from the successful 962 race car, utilizing water-cooled heads to accommodate its impressive 444 HP output. Power transmission was handled by a specially designed BorgWarner 6-speed gearbox, including an exceptionally low “Gelände” gear for potential off-road scenarios.
As a symbol of automotive aspiration for enthusiasts, the 959, alongside the Lamborghini Countach and Ferrari F40, stood out as a coveted “poster car.” However, it distinguished itself further by being the least produced among them, with just 292 units made, with majority of them being the Komfort variant like the one you see here.
Offered by RM Sotheby’s, this 1987 Porsche 959 Komfort is number 121 of only 207 Komfort examples built. Recently emerging from a $60,000 mechanical and cosmetic servicing by top-tier Porsche specialists, this 959 is a turnkey example with just four owners since new.
Originally delivered to Ursula Boemanns in 1988, this Guards Red 959, adorned with a black leather interior, remained under her ownership until 1990. Acquired by collector Klaus Troche, it underwent meticulous care and accrued over 22,000 kilometers by 1997.
Changing hands in 2000, it made its way to the United States and eventually became part of Bill Fleischman’s collection in 2008. Fleischman invested over $130,000 in mechanical servicing, and under his care, the car received professional paint touch-ups in 2019.
Under current ownership since 2023, the 959 continues its pampered life with visits to renowned California shops, accumulating nearly $60,000 in documented work. Modifications include a $35,000 “959 SC” performance suspension upgrade by Canepa, enhancing handling dynamics and shedding weight.
Accompanied by manuals, tools, invoices, a Certificate of Authenticity, and original components, this well-documented 959 Komfort is an iconic 1980s supercar, offering not only captivating aesthetics but also acclaimed performance and meticulous care.
Source: RM Sotheby’s
