VIN: the works Porsche 917 / 917 K chassis 001
/ Ben Tyer
HISTORY OF CHASSIS 001
Chassis 001 was the first Porsche 917 built. Painted white with a green nose and matching rear wing uprights, it was completed on March 10th 1969.
Two days later, it was displayed at the Geneva Motor Show.
On April 21st 1969, chassis 001 was used as the reference car for homologation into the Group 4 Sport class. It headed the 25 917 Langhecks that were lined up at the factory for the FIA to inspect.
Unbeknown to the FIA, most of the cars could have their engines started and first gear engaged but could drive no more than a few metres. The 917s were positioned in such a way they could be manoeuvred forwards but not actually driven out.
Homologation was granted and became effective from May 1st. The majority of cars were then dismantled to be re-assembled at a later date as and when required.
001 was the only one of the original 25 917s not to see some kind of competitive action, serving instead as a presentation vehicle.
In this role it was wheeled out a stunning blue and orange colour scheme to publicise Porsche’s two-year partnership with Gulf Racing for 1970 and ‘71. While in the UK as part of this promotional tour, 001 went on display at October 1969’s London Motor Show.
Subsequently used for a little light development work, 001 fortunately escaped the infamous Long Distance Life Test that claimed several other early 917s.
Porsche instead retained the car and had it rebuilt to 1970 Kurzheck trim for promotional purposes. 001 was later painted orange with white flashes to replicate the 1970 Le Mans-winning car driven by Richard Attwood and Hans Herrmann.
Chassis 001 remained that way until January 2018 when Porsche began to restore the car to its original configuration for the 917’s 50th anniversary. 001 was then unveiled to the press in April 2019.
Notable History
White with Green nose and rear wing uprights
12/03/1969 Geneva Motor Show
21/04/1969 Factory homologation presentation
15/10/1969 London Motor Show
Rebuilt to 917 K specification
Painted Orange with White flashes to replicate the 1970 Le Mans winning car
2018/2019 restored to 1969 trim
Text copyright: Supercar Nostalgia
Photo copyright: Porsche - https://www.porsche.com
