THINK YOU CAN DESIGN SOMETHING AMAZING INSPIRED BY THE PORSCHE 911?

IF SO, YOU MIGHT WIN A 911 FOR A YEAR, OR $20,000.

Design competitions are a dime a dozen, so it’s hard to create something that stands out and piques the creative interest of talented designers.

But Co.Design thinks they’ve done just that. Today, with great enthusiasm, they’re announcing the Porsche Next Design Challenge.

The winner stands to get a very nice prize indeed: A one-year lease on a brand-new Porsche 911, or a cash-equivalent of $20,000.

The challenge for you: Design an object smaller than a living room and bigger than a purse, which references three design elements taken from Porsche 911s of the past or present. (But not a car!)

Your work will be judged by two design luminaries: Dror Benshetrit, who has created products for everyone from Cappellini to Target, and Jens Martin Skibsted, founder of Biomega and the designer behind Puma’s superb line of city bikes. (The third judge will be yours truly.)

Far from being a purely speculative contest,Co.Design be giving finalists and outstanding entries a spotlight on their site–highlighting the process and ingenuity, and hopefully giving more visibility. You’ll see these posts roll-out throughout the spring, in the run-up to the deadline.

Are you entering the Next Design Challenge? Here’s something to get your creative juices flowing: A look at great Porsche 911′s of the past and present.To get your process started, they  created a slideshow of famous Porsche designs. And if you want to find out more about the contest, you can click here.

The deadline for entries is April 6, 2012. We can’t wait to see what you come up with. Good luck!

There are thousands of design details that go into creating a Porsche. Each builds upon the rest, creating the car’s essence. Could you take one element of the iconic design to create a brand new thing that embodies what Porsche is, but in an entirely new outlet?

NEXT DESIGN KEY CONTEST DATES

Co. Design is looking for designs inspired by Porsche’s signature car.
Enter by April 6th, and you could win a one year lease
on your own Porsche 911 or cash equivalent worth $20,000.

ENTER NOW TO WIN

JUDGES

Down by the Marina Green and the Marina Yacht Harbor in San Francisco, an inattentive Porsche driver has driven his fine German automobile into some roadwork along Marina Boulevard.

According to eyewitness reports on twitter, it took half a dozen city workers to dig out the vehicle, while the guy just sat in his car and assumed everyone else would do the work for him.

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On Thursday, the driver of the  Porsche 911 decided he’d take a shortcut around some construction cones and drove straight into wet concrete near Marina Green on Marina Blvd. in San Francisco.

“It was coned off,” according to Bobswire, a user of the Paceline bike forums. “He was just trying to sneak in from a side street. [The] concrete looked solid.”

Bobswire reports that the hapless driver remained stuck in his car. “He didn’t want to open the door and have concrete get in; the whole undercarriage and brakes will need to [be] cleaned or replaced.”

Whether the uncured pavement was concrete, asphalt concrete, or just plain cement is up for debate.

What’s unquestionable, that this is far the best Lightning McQueen impression you ever seen since Cars ?

The unidentified male driver was navigating San Francisco’s hilly roads  last week when he reportedly swerved to get ahead of stopped traffic.

Instead, his own sports car came to a complete stop when he drove it right into a patch of wet cement.

Unfortunately for the driver, not only was he stuck,  but he was also caught on tape by Jim Gorzelany, an automotive writer for Forbes who just happened to be driving by and posted the incident on the magazine’s website.

Gorzelany reports the man stayed in his six-figure sports car as construction workers scurried to shovel the cement out from underneath the car’s wheels before the cement set even more.

The car was eventually removed, according to Gorzelany, but it was already too late. He says the likely damage will likely require replacing the car’s undercarriage.

SOURCES:

Jim Gorzelany, an automotive writer for Forbes

Bobswire - a user of the Paceline bike forums

Youtube laurenbettencourt

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• Why A Porsche And Wet Cement Don’t Mix (forbes.com)

• The Dangers Of Impatient Driving (nytrafficticket.com)

• Photo: Porsche Drives Into Construction Site (sfist.com)

• Porsche 911 daft driver: He is stuck in cement trying to beat traffic (thesun.co.uk)

• Latest Video: Porsche Drives Into Wet Cement (dedeporsche.wordpress.com)

• How To Drive Your Porsche Out Of Wet Cement [Video] (jalopnik.com)

• Impatient Rich Guy Destroys $90,000 Porsche 911 in 10 Seconds Flat (celebritynetworth.com)

Porsche’s official “Guards Red” and “Silver Metallic”, complete with that auto body like shine using a waxed gloss finish….

Over the 26 years of Air Jordans a main point of inspiration for their designers has been found in the automotive and airline industries.

One of the first was the Air Jordan VI made by the brands most well known designer, Tinker Hatfield. Releasing in 1991 Hatfield’s VI design was created based on the look of the Porsche 911, one of Michael Jordan’s cars at that time.

The most telling piece of the shoe became the pronounced, black and red plastic heel tab on the VI that was created in the essence of the 911′s over sized spoiler. Chris Hui of C2 Customs‘ goal on this pair of Air Jordan VIs was to further develop the original inspiration and transform the shoe to embody the look of a Porsche as close as possible.

C2 started out using a youth sized white/varsity red/black Air Jordan VI retro as his base shoe, seen below to understand the amount of changes made.

After prepping the shoes properly, change number one was painting all white parts Porsche’s official “Guards Red”, complete with that auto body like shine using a waxed gloss finish.

Second the white neoprene tongues were dyed tan to match the rich tan leather interiors.

A third subtle detail included painting of the Air Max cavity walls a bright maize to represent the signature Brembo brakes and calipers of the 911s.

To add more of that official Porsche look, the placement of emblems on the toe and heels a la hood and trunk was painted with gold and black. The front being a small C and 2, while the back mimics the Porsche coat of arms using the stitched Jumpman logo as its centerpiece. Now that is where many customizers would stop and call it done.

The details are what C2 is all about though, as his toughest task was drilling four holes and filling them with hand cut metal to create the look of the Porsche 911′s quad exhaust. Luckily C2 is patient enough to not have mis-drilled the holes considering he probably did that step first and could have easily ruined this pair of Jordans and the entire project.

There is no way to imagine how hyped these Porsche Air Jordan VI would be if they were an official Air Jordan release. Thanks to C2 for the first look here on PaintOrThread.com.

Checkout more work by Chris and contact him for your own detailed C2 custom sneaker via his website: C2Customs.com

Porsche inspired Air Jordan 6 custom insane custom using the Silver Porsche as inspiration.

This Air Jordan 6 custom features the Porsche emblem on the heel surrounding the Jumpman, dual muffler, agate metallic silver upper, with the original Red strip on the pull tab and Jumpman on the Sole. Surely these are one of the craziest customs we’ve ever seen and probably one of the best.

What do you think about the Air Jordan 6 “Porsche 911″ Metallic Silver Custom shoes?

 Coincidentally, Porsche announced and unveiled a new 911 on the same morning this design went public.  There was more action on Twitter about these kicks than there was about the announcement of the actual car.  #imjustsaying

Via C2

SOURCE: C2′s Porsche 911 inspiration board

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Reblogged from GMG Racing:

Global Motorsports Group (GMG) has established a relationship with Shell Racing Solutions to be a Shell Unleaded Racing Technology (URT) Fuel supplier to racers and track customers in Southern California. Shell’s new URT unleaded race fuel will also be the exclusive fuel used by GMG Racing for testing purposes on the company’s in-house dynamometer test cell. GMG will also use Shell Racing fuels for the company’s racing program whenever a specific fuel is not required by a sanctioning body. “Shell is our …

 

GMG will also use Shell Racing fuels for the company’s racing program whenever a specific fuel is not required by a sanctioning body.

“Shell is our recommended fuel for maximum performance applications as it pertains to performance-tuned road cars such as Porsche and Audi plus for testing all our World Challenge line of street cars,” stated James Sofronas, president and co-founder of GMG. continue reading >>> here

Watch the teaser rendering and video here, hot out of the oven!

Design drawing Porsche Macan

So far we knew this car as the Porsche Cajun. But the official announcement released by Porsche reveals the car’s real name as Macan.

It means Tiger in Indonesian language, and refers to the car’s superior power, agility, and dynamism. Watch the dramatic teaser video below:

“The Macan combines all sports car characteristics with the benefits of a SUV and is a genuine Porsche”

Name for new Porsche SUV is Macan 

Stuttgart. Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart’s new sports car in the SUV segment has been given the name Macan. The name Macan is derived from the Indonesian word for tiger and combines suppleness, power, fascination and dynamics – core characteristics of the new off-road car.

“The Macan combines all sports car characteristics with the benefits of a SUV and is a genuine Porsche”, said Bernhard Maier, Member of the Executive Board Sales and Marketing of Porsche AG.

“The name of a new Porsche has to fit with the brand, sound good in very many languages and dialects and evoke positive associations.”

As the fifth Porsche model line, the Macan is a central plank of Strategy 2018, by which the sports car manufacturer wishes to expand its model portfolio. Porsche intends the Macan to emulate the success of the Cayenne.

The SUV will start coming off the production lines in Leipzig in 2013.

To that end, the site in this city in Saxony is being expanded into a fully-fledged production plant including body assembly line and paint shop – with 500 million euro of investment one of the biggest building projects in Porsche’s corporate history. In the medium-term, the sports car manufacturer will be creating more than 1,000 new jobs here.

Word names at Porsche have a concrete connection with the corresponding model and its characteristics: the name Boxster describes the combination of boxer engine and roadster, Cayenne stands for sharpness, the Cayman is snappy and agile and a Panamera is more than a Gran Turismo, capable also of winning the Carrera Panamericana long-distance race.

SOURCE: Porsche AG Media Database

Do you remember the film?

Risky Business is the film in which 19-year-old Tom Cruise (Joel Goodson) dances around his living room in his underwear.

He does this to celebrate the fact that his parents have left him alone while they go on vacation. Somewhere along the line, hooker Rebecca De Mornay, fleeing her vicious pimp, hides out in the Cruise manse.

Original theatrical trailer for the 1983 film “Risky Business.” Starring Tom Cruise, Rebecca De Mornay, Joe Pantoliano, Richard Masur, Bronson Pinchot, Curtis Armstrong, Nicholas Pryor, and Janet Carroll. Written & Directed by Paul Brickman.

Things go from bad to worse to as Cruise inadvertently drives his father’s Porsche 928 into Lake Michigan and nearly scuttles his college recruitment interview.

a clip from “Risky Business” Joel and Barry take Joel’s dad’s Porsche 928 for a joyride.

Joel (Tom Cruise) races with his dad’s Porsche while trying to escape Lana’s pimp. From the Warner Bros. film – “Risky Business”

Porsche 928 movie car “Risky Business” sold to Beverly Hills Car Dealer

AllePorsche.com recently reported that a 1979 Porsche 928 used during the filming of “Risky Business” was put up for sale by the Volo Auto Museum, located about an hour north of Chicago where the movie was set, in order to make room for a couple of new additions to its collection.The platinum metallic colored coupe was one of four 928s used during principal production of the film, according to museum director Brian Grams.

Apparently the Porsche 928 that appeared in the film “Risky Business” was just sold for $49,000 after a Beverly Hills car dealer >  read about it on FoxNews.com. 

Grams says that he purchased the car several years ago from Denver car collector Lewis Johnson, who was obsessed with owning one of the Porsches from the film since he first saw it at the age of 14 and finally got around to tracking one down in 2005.

Johnson claims that the film’s producer, Jon Avnet, told him that he taught Cruise how to drive a manual transmission in the 5-speed Porsche, which was used during the filming of several scenes. Cruise has since become a well-known automotive enthusiast.

Grimes told FoxNews.com that the Porsche was listed for sale on the museum’s website , likely to sell for around $55,000. According to NADA Guides, the average price of 1979 928 without the Hollywood credit is $7,800.

The well-worn sports car has over 100,000 miles on the odometer and is not exactly in pristine condition. ….after 102,000 miles and multiple paint jobs. Its fuel tank leaking and it’s obvious that its bodywork will need some attention.

“I didn’t have much money left to spend, so I brought the car to a local Maaco paint place and had a single-stage paint job done on it,” says Johnsen. “It kind of worked out, though, because it only had a single-stage paint job on it when it was in the movie. So, in a way, this cheap paint job is more true to how it really was in the film than if I had an expensive two-stage base/clear paint job done — which wasn’t an option anyway!”

I guess Tom Cruise’s name is worth something?

Cruise would probably look back on it as a great movie. He netted a Golden Globe nomination in 1984 for his performance as Joel Goodsen — considered by many as the role that launched his career — and Risky Business went on to become one of the biggest cult classic films of the 1980s.

It also exposed the Porsche brand to a whole new generation of future buyers. Many first-time Porsche owners today were teenagers sitting, with mouths agape, in a dark theater 20+ years ago.

Paul Brickman, the movie director said he chose Porsche’s 928 as the film’s luminary in lieu of other high-end GTs initially considered because he felt a Ferrari or Lamborghini would be far too exotic for the main character’s father to drive as a daily car.

Brickman initially considered Porsche’s iconic 911, but ultimately dubbed it “too mundane.” He saw the 928, on the other hand, as exactly the type of car a successful Windy City businessman would drive to work every day. The 928 was one of the most contemporary cars available at the time Brickman wrote the script. It was fresh, different, and exotic — yet in a subtle way.

Ultimately being totaled after being dumped into Lake Michigan for the sinking Porsche scene. after some research, found there were four different 928s used for filming, as well as two more cars used in the film’s post-production phase.

What’s more, none of the four 928s used for the production of Risky Busi-ness exactly match the car as it is actually portrayed on film. The cars present a mix of years, wheels, transmissions, and original colors — all similar yet slightly different from one another.

RB 928, as portrayed in the film, is a 1981 Platinmetallic 928 with a five-speed manual transmission, offset “Phone-Dial” cast alloy wheels, a gold interior, and Illinois State license plate tag number N2Z 264.

And the primary 928 used for filming in real life was a Platinum Metallic 1981 928, but with an automatic transmission, flat-face 15-inch “Phone-Dial” wheels, a brown dash, gold seats, and a non-reflective prop Illinois license plate, number N2Z 264.

With over 100,000 miles on the odometer, the platinum metallic coupe may not be in as good shape as its action hero driver, but it clearly has the same kind of box office draw.

Source: Fox News and Excellence Porsche Magazine

Photo Credits: Volo Auto Museum and Wiki

For more information from Volvo Auto Museum ‘s website click here

 Angelique Kerber  

Angelique Kerber takes maiden WTA title

Stuttgart. What a dream week for Angelique Kerber:

She won her first match for Germany at Porsche Team Germany’s Fed Cup premiere in Stuttgart’s Porsche Arena.

And now in Paris, she has celebrated her first career WTA title.

In the thrilling final of the Open GDF SUEZ on Sunday, the 24 year-old German beat Frenchwoman Marion Bartoli after three hard-fought sets 7-6, 5-7, 6-3. She pocketed 107,000 dollars prize money and moved up the WTA world rankings to No. 22.

Click to view slideshow.

En route to her second WTA final after Bogota in 2010, Angelique Kerber defeated superstar Maria Sharapova from Russia in the quarterfinals and then Belgian Yanina Wickmayer in the semifinals.

She had lost her last three matches against Marion Bartoli, the world No. 7. However as a 15-year-old teenager back in 2003, she won her very first match on the WTA Tour by beating the Frenchwoman in Berlin.

Now at the Premier Tournament in the Seine metropolis, she has pulled off the most important win of her career after a tough battle against the local hero who was the favourite going into the final.

“I was very nervous before my first final. This time around I tried to take the match like any other.

It worked quite well,” said Angelique Kerber.

“I made it a bit more tense than necessary but I’ve won my first WTA tournament. It’s all that counts.”

A Porsche Team Germany member also stood in the doubles final in Paris: Anna-Lena Grönefeld and her Croatian partner Petra Martic were however defeated by the Americans Liezel Huber/Lisa Raymond, currently the world’s best doubles pair, after putting up an impressive display in the first set 7-6, 6-1.

Angelique Kerber 

The Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, for which all the world’s Top 10 have entered for the first time in addition to Porsche Team Germany’s Andrea Petkovic plus Sabine Lisicki, Angelique Kerber and last year’s winner Julia Görges, will take place in the Porsche Arena from 21 to 29 April.

SOURCE: Porsche AG Media Database

Porsche Tennis Grand Prix and the Porsche Team Germany

Communication Porsche AG

Filmed in Bavaria, Germany. The skiers are towed behind cars travelling at great speed.

The concept is simple enough: put a rope on a car or motorcycle, presumably equipped with studded snow tires, then have the driver navigate a race course at speeds up to 100 miles per hour.

Probably not considered the most dangerous sport by today’s standards!

Evidently safety was not as big of a concern back then either. The speeds and proximities to other skiers in this clip are unlike anyone would have attempted.

See the Teutonic madness, featuring Porsche 356s and even a Porsche 550 Spyder, a short but sensationalized video below.

You can spot the Porsche 550 Spyders in the video, and what appears to be Otto Mathe’s famous 4 cam-powered single seat racer, which you can see in person visiting the Prototype Museum in Hamburg.

Probably the Gmund 040, then used by Otto Mathe to tow his ice racer

Source: The British Pathé Film Archive

All 90,000 British Pathe reels can be viewed and enjoyed on:http://www.britishpathe.com

On a hot summer day, nothing can be more refreshing than an ice cold soft drink.  From Pepsi to Coca-Cola, from Orange to Root Beer, sparkling water to seltzer, there are numerous soft drinks to choose from.  Soft drinks are sold in every gas station, every restaurant and just about every place you go today.

But where did this Porsche theme Pepsi six pack of carbonated delight come from?

Brazil of all places and with a Porsche “transportation” theme!

For any Porsche enthusiast and Porsche collector this is one more thing to add too the shelf.  Unfortunately, this maybe hard to find as the promotion was back in 1997 in Brazil.  Pretty cool though. I love it when Porsche and various companies do theme promotions like this. Now if they would only do more marketing like this, I would be first in line to purchase!

And a little more “Pepsi Porsche” triva… from what I remember according to the Porsche race car driver/actor James Dean‘s official site, James Dean’s first professional acting job was a 1950 Pepsi commercial “in which a group of teenagers dance around a jukebox singing ‘Pepsi-Cola hits the spot‘” a rare James Dean video. Now that’s a classic.

The six pack includes:
Pepsi Porsche 911 Carrera azul (blue)

Pepsi Porsche 911 Carrera Cabrio azul (blue)

Pepsi Porsche 356 B (black)

Pepsi Porsche 911B amarelo (yellow)

Pepsi Porsche 911 Turbo vermelho (red)

Pepsi Porsche Boxster vermelho (red)

Flying Lizard Returns for 9th Consecutive ALMS Season

February 06, 2012 – Sonoma, Calif. – Flying Lizard Motorsports announced its driver lineup for the 2012 Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring.

The team will field two new racecars in the GT class for the ALMS season: the No. 45 and No. 44 2012 Porsche 911 GT3 RSRs. Joerg Bergmeister and Patrick Long, both Porsche factory drivers, will return for their fourth consecutive season driving together in the No. 45; this will be Bergmeister’s fifth year with the team.

Bergmeister is a five- time ALMS GT drivers’ champion (2005-2006 and 2008-2010). The 2008, 2009 and 2010 championships were won with Flying Lizard in the No. 45. Long has won the title three times: 2005, and 2009-2010, each with Bergmeister.

Porsche factory driver Marco Holzer

At Sebring, the pair will be joined by Porsche factory driver Marco Holzer. 2012 will be Holzer’s second year with the team. After Sebring, Holzer will return to his regular seat in the sister No. 44 Porsche for the season.

2011 12 Hours of Sebring

For Sebring, in the No. 44, Seth Neiman will be joined by Darren Law and Andy Lally. Law has driven with the Lizards since 2004 and will return as a guest driver in 2012.

Darren Law

Sebring will be Lally’s first race with the team. Andy Lally

Lally heads to Sebring following a GT win last week at the 2012 Rolex 24 At Daytona (with Magnus Racing). 2012 is Lally’s fourth GT win at the Rolex 24 At Daytona. Among his notable achievements in endurance racing and stock car racing, Lally was named NASCAR Sprint Cup Rookie of the Year for 2011. Click here for more information on Lally.

Thomas Blam, Flying Lizard Chief Strategist said,

“Marco Holzer has proven to be a highly consistent driver; he contributed a great deal to our 2011 program. He will be a very solid addition to Joerg and Patrick in the No. 45 for Sebring. In the No. 44, we have an All-American lineup with Seth, Darren and Andy. This will be Andy’s first time driving with the Lizards but he has a proven performance record in Porsches and brings a wide breadth of endurance racing experience.”

The new Porsches will have their inaugural run at the ALMS Sebring Winter test this week: February 8 and 9 in Sebring, Florida.

Developments to the RSR for 2012 include a wider body, increased front tire diameter and wider front and rear track width. Porsche has also modified the bodywork to optimize aerodynamics and added new air intake ducts to the rear quarter panel.

The Porsche 911 GT3 RSR is powered by a six-cylinder boxer engine with a four-litre capacity. Click here for details.

About Flying Lizard Motorsports
Flying Lizard returns to the American Le Mans Series for their ninth season and the fourth consecutive season for Bergmeister and Long together in the No. 45.

The Lizards have won two ALMS GT team championships (2008 and 2009) and have finished in the top three each year since 2004.

The team has secured three ALMS GT drivers’ championships: Bergmeister and Long took the title together in 2009 and 2010 and Bergmeister with Wolf Henzler in 2008. Bergmeister is five-time ALMS GT drivers’ champion (2005-2006 and 2008-2010) and Long has won the title three times (2005, and 2009-2010), all with Bergmeister.

Bergmeister is the only driver in Grand-Am and ALMS history to win the championship in both series in the same year (2006).

Flying Lizard has also competed in the 24 Heures du Mans from 2005 through 2011, finishing third in 2005, fourth in 2006, sixth in 2008, and sixth in 2011.

Visit the team website at www.lizardms.com. For the latest team racing apparel and Porsche gear visit the Flying Lizard stores online and in the paddock.

The privateer team is based in Sonoma, California.

SOURCE: Flying Lizard Motorsports

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March 17 (Saturday)

60th Annual Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring Sebring International Raceway Sebring, FL 3.7 mile, 17 turns, 12 hours

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Photo source  Gooding & Co.

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (February 6, 2012) – Gooding and Company, the acclaimed auction house celebrated for selling the world’s most significant and valuable collector cars, is honored to announce its recent consignment of the Drendel Family Collection of 18 Porsches.

Lowenbrau 962

Recognized as the world’s finest private collection of its kind, the Drendel Family Collection consists of both road and race cars spanning 25 years of Porsche history from 1973 – 1997. With 10 of the 18 lots being offered without reserve, the arrival of this extraordinary collection in Amelia Island offers collectors and Porsche enthusiasts around the world the opportunity to own a piece of Porsche’s winning motorsport heritage.

1984-Porsche-962

In addition, the March auction marks the first time many of these historically-important racing stars will have ever been presented at auction. Gooding & Company has moved the start time of its Amelia Island Auction to 11 a.m. on Friday, March 9th to accommodate the extensive 18-car collection, as well as to accommodate the schedules of its guests at the daytime auction.

“The result of well-developed connoisseurship and deep passion, Matthew Drendel built what has become the world’s most significant private collection of turbocharged Porsches,” says David Gooding, President and founder of Gooding & Company.

“It’s a very rare occurrence when a refined, single-marque collection of high-quality road and race cars is offered to the public.

We feel privileged to have been selected to present the Drendel Family Collection in Amelia Island.”

Matt Drendal  – Photo Credit by Paul Powell (Owner at Unfair Advantage Racing )

A Passion for Porsche Matthew Drendel was attracted to Porsche automobiles from an early age. Although his personal racing successes were primarily associated with normally-aspirated 911 Cup cars, it was the legendary turbocharged Porsches that most interested him as a collector.

His collection began with a single 930 road car and later expanded to the 18 magnificent cars it is today.

Heritage Motorwerks was founded by Porsche collector, Matthew Drendel. Four of Matthew Drendel’s Porsches were used in filming of the Porsche “Family Tree” video commercial for the Pananmera… the baby turbo, 962 Lowenbrau, the GT 1 and the 917-30 that Matt drove in the Porsche Panamera “Family Tree” commercial.

Extended version of the Porsche Panamera – Porsche Family Tree Commercial Video

“Matthew Drendel maintained a reputation for collecting the very best cars and, therefore, has always been respected in the Porsche community,” says Gooding & Company Specialist David Brynan.

“The overall scope of the collection and focus on factory team cars reflect his tremendous dedication and knowledge of the marque.”

Related link:

In tribute to Matt Drendel of the Porsche Community – CEO/Founder of Heritage Motorwerks LLC

Matthew Clayton Drendel was 35 and died quickly of a stomach aneurysm on November 24, 2010.  The Drendel family is highly regarded in the Porsche community and has contributed a great amount to the quality of life here.

______________________________________________________________________
Detailed below are seven of the most significant collector cars being offered as part of the Drendel Family

Collection:

1. – 1973 Porsche 917/30 Can-Am Spyder
Chassis 917-30-004
Estimate: $3.25 – $4 million

The Porsche 917 racing program was one of the most successful in the history of motor sport and the 973 917/30 Can-Am Spyder represents its pinnacle. With a 1,000 hp turbocharged flat-twelve, American racing champion Mark Donohue’s 917/30 was so dominant that the Can Am Challenge Cup was disbanded and the other manufacturers withdrew due to their inability to compete. One of four examples completed at the Porsche factory, 004 was intended to be the 1974 Penske-Sunoco team car but was instead sold to Australian Porsche Importer Alan Hamilton. Later purchased by the Porsche factory, this car is now the centerpiece of the Drendel Family Collection. Meticulously restored and presented in the iconic Penske-Sunoco livery, this 917/30 has been raced at the Monterey Historics and has been displayed at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance and Rennsport Reunion.

2. – 1984 Porsche 962
Chassis 962-103
Estimate: $1.75 – $2.225 million

According to Gooding & Company specialists, this car is the finest example of the Porsche 962 and one of the most successful racing cars of its generation. With only two owners from new, this back-to-back 24 Hours of Daytona winner will be one of the Drendel Family Collection’s most significant offerings at the auction with its immediately recognizable Löwenbräu livery, list of legendary drivers, unrivalled racing record and superb documentation.

 Rennsport II HR1 Porsche 962

In 1984 Porsche provided the late Al Holbert this 962 to compete in the IMSA road racing series where it would go on to earn 15 overall wins from 1984 to 1986, this included a back to back Daytona 24 hour overall win in 1986 and 1987. 962-103 scored three Drivers Championships, three Team Championships and three Manufacturer Championships for Porsche! This was the first 962 chassis to score a win and is by far the most successful 962.  With names like Derek Bell and Chip Robinson joining Al, it proved to be an unbeatable combination.  The 956 and 962 are still today regarded as the most successful sports-cars in history, making this example the winningest sports-car in history.

3. – 1974 Porsche RSR Turbo Carrera 2.14
Chassis 911 460 9016 (R9)
Estimate: $1.75 – $2.25 million

The Carrera RSR Turbo 2.14 represents a turning point in the history of competition Porsches when it introduced the use of turbocharged engines in production-based race cars. Used by the factory for development, this hand-built experimental 911 was campaigned as a Martini & Rossi Porsche Works entry in the 1974 season at Nürburgring, Imola and Zeltweg. Few racing cars of this caliber have remained so correct and untouched, making this car an extremely important piece of Porsche history.

 4. – 1976 Porsche 935/76
Chassis 930 570 0001 (R14)
Estimate: $1.7 – $2 million

This 935, serial number 935-001, is the very first 935 ever made by Porsche.  It was built on the very first production 911 Turbo chassis, 930 570 0001.  Initially used for testing and development purposes, it was pressed into service near the end of the 1976 season in the Group 5 World Manufacturers Championship, as BMW was closing the gap with Porsche towards points in winning the championship.  On its racing debut, 935-001 dominated the Six Hours of Watkins Glen, and went on to win the race overall.

Following the triumphant success, “001″ would go on to earn a second place finish at the Six Hours of Dijon, right behind 935-002.  The result was at the end of 1976 was a Group 5 World Championship for Porsche.  935-001 is the only former, factory team 935/76 in the world in private ownership.  935-002 is now on display at the Porsche museum in Stuttgart, Germany.  935-001 launched what would become one of the most successful types of road racing sports cars ever.  Porsche 935s dominated race tracks around the world for over a decade.  Today, 935-001 remains in its original, unrestored state, exactly as it was when it was last raced in 1976.

5.- 1985 Porsche 962
Chassis 962-HR1
Estimate: $900,000 – $1.2 million
During its career, this Porsche achieved 11 overall wins and 19 podium finishes, as well as 2 IMSA GTP Drivers Championships and an IMSA GTP Manufacturers Championship. Along with its Holbert Racing sister car, 962-103, this 962 is one of the most significant 962s in history. Fresh from restoration, 962- HR1 was displayed at RennSport Reunion IV in 2011.

6. – 1997 Porsche 911 GT1 Evolution
Chassis 993-GT1-004
Estimate: $900,000 – $1.2 million

Chassis 993-GT1-004 was part of the family tree commercial filmed for the introduction of the Panamera.

This rare factory team car – one of just four built – has competed at top events (Le Mans, Nürburgring and Laguna Seca) in the highest levels of international racing with known drivers behind its wheel. Later campaigned by Rohr Racing at Daytona and Harry Bytzek in the Canada GT Challenge Cup, GT1-004 has one of the most impressive racing records of any factory GT1.

A restructuring of the rules as handed down by the FIA was largely responsible for the classes known as GT1 and GT2. While GT2 cars were based on production platforms, to call a GT1 anything other than a prototype would be to misconstrue the logic of effort. While a few road going versions of the Mercedes CLK-GTR and the Toyota GT-One were constructed, it was all done at face value. Only Porsche made a complete effort to adhere to the rules by making an actual run of GT1 road going production models. As Weissach was to learn for the 1997 and 1998 FIA GT seasons, no good deed goes unpunished, as their GT1 was a victim of questionable limitations on performance compared to the competition. Only at Le Mans, under the rules of the ACO, was the true potential of the GT1 clearly in evidence.

The genesis behind the decision to build the original GT1 came as an answer to counter the successful road to race configuration of the McLaren F1 which won Le Mans overall in 1995. In reality, this was to be Norbert Singer’s first new real prototype to come from Weissach since the 956 in 1982.

After the initial successful appearance of the Porsche GT1 at La Sarthe in 1996, ( 1st in class, 2nd overall ) McLaren would counter with a new car for the upcoming season. Norbert Singer developed the evolution version of the GT1, which was a considerable improvement over the previous edition. The FIA GT Championship debuted in 1997 and while Weissach entered a pair of GT1′s to contest the series, the major focus was preparing for Le Mans.

GT1 evolution chassis 004 had it’s initial roll out at Weissach for the 1997 season in late March and immediately was used for testing prior to pre-qualifying for Le Mans in May. Wearing number 25 for the actual June race, the trio of Stuck, Wollek and Boutsen quickly established 004 as the car to beat for the overall win. However, in motorsport there is only one certainty and that is uncertainty. With eight hours remaining, Wollek spun and 004 was retired from the race. For the remainder of the 1997 FIA GT season 004 was entered for only two races. However, at Laguna Seca, a new star in sportscar racing was ignited as Allan McNish got the jump on the superior Mercedes squad and kept the Porsche badge in front until the first round of pit stops and a miscalculation knocked 004 out of first place. The duo of McNish and Kellners settled for a podium position of third overall. GT1 004 was returned to Weissach where it was used for extensive tire testing with Michelin in preparation for the 1998 season and a year long birthday party for Porsche’s 50th.

GT1 004 was sold in 1998 and was campaigned successfully, retired from use and eventually sold in 2005 to a private collector. Three years later 004 was obtained by Matt Drendel and restored visually to the way it appeared at Le Mans in 1997. The three year run of werks GT1’s continue to be immensely popular with enthusiasts in the manner of models, books and published material. Porsche requested 004 to be on their stand at the New York Auto Show in 2009 and later that year 004 was part of the family tree commercial filmed for the introduction of the Panamera.

7. – 1975 Porsche 934
Chassis 930 670 0155
Estimate: $800,000 – $1 million

The racing variant of the road-going 930, the 934 expanded on the success of the RSR, winning the European GT Championship as well as the TransAm Championship in North America. The second 934 constructed, this car was actively campaigned through the early 1980s, culminating in a first in class at the 1982 24 Hours of Le Mans.

In regards to this car, noted Porsche authority Bruce Anderson was quoted as saying

“it is the most successful 934 to race in international competition.”

Only the second 934 of the 31 produced by Porsche, “930670155″ has a wonderful story to tell. Competing successfully for seven consecutive seasons, this 934 has won more races and had more podium finishes than any other 934 in history. It would go on to earn both a Group 4 class win at the 1982 24 Hours of Le Mans. Powered by an air-cooled 3.0L, turbocharged, flat six, this example would go on to make an amazing 630hp!

_________________________________________________________________________________________

The remaining cars of the Drendel Family Collection, 11 offered without reserve, are listed below:

8. – 1980 Porsche 924 Carrera GT Le Mans
Chassis 924-003
Estimate: $450,000 – $600,000, Without Reserve

One of three Works entries at the 1980 24 Hours of Le Mans; placed 13
th Overall with Bell and Holbert

Born as a project of Porsche AG, to show that the front engined 924 was just as suitable for racing as their other models, the 924 Carrera GT Le Mans (924-003) was a remarkable success in so many ways.  Credited for being the car that originally brought Derek Bell and the late Al Holbert together, this car was already off to a good start before there’s even a mention of its successful racing career.  This 924 certainly proved its worth amongst others in the Porsche range, as it would go on to be a popular choice for several other private racing teams following the success of the Factory 924 Carrera GT Le Mans at the challenging, 24 Hours of Le Mans.  In total, there were four of these cars produced, this is the only example in private hands, with the other three still belonging to Porsche today.

9. – 1980 Porsche Indy Car
Chassis 0031
Estimate: $350,000 – $550,000
Intended as Porsche’s return to open-wheel racing, the company’s ground-breaking program was cancelled a month before the Indianapolis 500 s a result of last-minute USAC rule changes

10 – 1987 McLaren-Porsche MP4/3 Formula One
Chassis MP4/3/1
Estimate: $450,000 – $600,000, Without Reserve
The first MP4/3 built and the only example in private hands

11. – 1981 Porsche 924 GTP “Le Mans”
Chassis 924-005
Estimate: $375,000 – $450,000, Without Reserve
Factory prototype and development car, built to compete at the 24 Hours of Le Mans

12. – 1995 Porsche 911 GT2 Evolution
Chassis WP0ZZZ99ZTS393062
Estimate: $375,000 – $425,000, Without Reserve
The Champion Porsche, 1996 12 Hours of Sebring class winner

All the way from Pompano Beach, Florida, this 911 GT2 Evolution cut its teeth racing for Champion Racing in the ‘Sunshine State’, where it earned everything from a GT1 class win at the 12 Hours of Sebring in 1996 to a second in class finish in 1997 at the grueling, 24 Hours of Daytona.  Taking several other podium finishes throughout its racing career, this chassis, #393062, is one of the most successful 993 GT2s to ever compete thanks to an impressive list of endurance racing legends that piloted it during its career, including Hans Stuck, Thierry Boutsen and Bill Adam.  This iteration of the (993) 911 GT2 is proof that evolution is very effective within the Porsche Motorsport department, as this GT2 Evolution produced 600hp, growing 150hp from the original “GT2” to make it competitive within the GT1 racing class.

13. – 1992 Porsche 968 Turbo RS
Chassis WPOZZZ96ZNS820065
Estimate: $250,000 – $325,000, Without Reserve
Factory prototype with Le Mans and Sebring race history

With 450 horsepower and nearly 500 foot pounds of torque this is anything but your typical 968.  The 968 Turbo RS was a product of the men at Porsche Motorsport in Weissach, Germany.  Featuring the familiar 3.0L engine block, but utilizing a SOHC cylinder head, the 968 Turbo RS was fitted with a large, KKK L41 Turbocharger that helped make it so competitive that the entire project was eventually abandoned because of what some might call ‘sibling rivalry’.  The 968 Turbo RS had the basic ingredients to embarrass its older brother, the 911.   With an extensive use of Carbon Fiber and TAG engine management, this 968 proved to be a cutting edge weapon within its career.  This particular example is undoubtedly the most desirable of the four produced, as it’s the prototype chassis and is the only example to be raced during the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1994.

14. – 1994 Porsche 911 Turbo 3.6 ”Bad Boys” Movie Car

As seen in Columbia Studio’s “Bad Boys” Film
Chassis WP0AC2965RS480276
Estimate: $75,000 – $90,000, Without Reserve

The 964 chassis 911 Turbo 3.6 marks the end of an era for Porsche, as it was the end of the single-turbo, rear-wheel driven 911 Turbos, making it especially prominent amongst discerning Porschephiles.  This particular example is especially significant as it is the exact car used in the popular film “Bad Boys”, starring Will Smith, Martin Lawrence and Tea Leoni.

15. – 1986 Porsche 944 Turbo Cup
Chassis WP0ZZZ95ZGN154076
Estimate: $65,000 – $85,000, Without Reserve

Underneath this 944’s relatively unassuming exterior lurks a beast. The 944 Turbo Cup, or “944 Weissach Turbo” as the factory would call them, were gifted with all the best secrets from Porsche Motorsport. Featuring everything from lightweight body panels to significant suspension and chassis modifications, the 944 Turbo Cup is already off to a good start before you even mention the significant power increase over the standard model. Shedding over 400lbs from a showroom 944 Turbo, the Turbo Cup could now accelerate to 60mph in under 5 seconds! A frequenter of victory lane, this chassis would go onto be highly successful during its racing career even at one point earning six consecutive wins while competing in the Firehawk endurance showroom stock series.  Since its retirement from racing, it was given a FULL ground up restoration by the experts at Rennsport Porsche in Louisiana, and now enjoys its life as a true race car for the street!

16. – 1988 Porsche 944 Turbo S
Chassis WP0AA2957JN151272
Estimate: $50,000 – $65,000, Without Reserve

17. – 1994 Porsche 968 Turbo S Clone
Chassis WP0AA2961RS820772
Estimate: $45,000 – $55,000, Without Reserve

If you are thinking this is your typical 968 Turbo S, think again. Mr. Lloyd Hawkins, then owner of the prototype 968 Turbo RS s/n 820065 and the owner of Rennsport Porsche in Louisiana wanted nothing less than a road going version of his 968 Turbo RS prototype.

In collaboration with Porsche Motorsport North America and Porsche Motorsport in Germany, the trio of experts went to work on Mr. Hawkins wish. When they were finished, they created a true one off beast! If ever there was a “Wolf in Sheep’s clothing”, this is it.

Able to produce over 500 horsepower at the wheels from it’s 3.0 liter 4 cylinder engine at 26 psi or about 1.75 bar, with a quick change to racing “slick tires”, this car would be at home on any race track, or by simply switching back to “street tires”, you could set the cruise control on for a long journey down the interstate.

While the project was no doubt expensive, costing over $200,000 dollars and over 1800 man hours to complete, the project was a huge success! NO detail was overlooked. Carrillo “H-Beam” connecting rods were used, along with Mahle pistons, an actual 968 Turbo RS 3.0 liter racing engine block, ARP studs, three angle valve cuts, “O” ringed heads, stainless steel brake lines, 964 Turbo S brakes with ABS, adjustable coil over springs with Bilstein shocks, adjustable sway bars, carbon fiber clutch, 968 Turbo RS G44/01 transmission with limited slip differential, and that is just to name a few, all the correct parts to go racing with are present and accounted for.

Inside the car however, it features many comfort amenities, such as heated leather Porsche sport seats, Porsche/Alpine Hi-Fi stereo system with 6 disc changer, power steering, front airbags, rear foldable seats, full lightweight carpet (without sound deadening material) throughout, air conditioning, removable/tilting sunroof, power windows, power rear window wiper and even a fully functioning adjustable rear wing to add or remove downforce at the rear of the car as needed.

This 968 Turbo RS really embodies the “best of both worlds”‘ and in some ways pays homage to the great racing cars of the past. The racing cars that could truly be driven to the track to compete, and then be driven home again. It is, without question, one of Mr. Drendel’s favorite street cars. He was once quoted as saying, “For me, this car is much more fun to drive than my 959 Sport. With a perfect 50/50 weight distribution, once I got my set up dialed in just right within the suspension, there isn’t anything else I would do to change this car, I don’t know how it could possibly get any better.”

That is high praise indeed!

18. – 1991 Porsche 944 S2 Cabriolet
Chassis WP0CB2949MN440106
Estimate: $25,000 – $30,000, Without Reserve

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Gooding & Company will be conducting its annual Amelia Island Auction on March 9, 2012 at 11 a.m., at the Racquet Park located at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation at 6800 First Coast Highway in Amelia Island, one mile south of the Amelia Island Parkway.

Guests may preview the cars on Thursday, March 8th from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Friday, March 9th from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

An auction catalogue for $75 admits two to the viewing and auction. General admission to the viewing and auction can be purchased at the tent for $30 per person.

Bidder registration forms, press credentials and additional auction information are available at www.goodingco.com or by calling (310) 899-1960. Auctions are broadcast Live at www.goodingco.com/auction

About Gooding & Company
Gooding & Company, internationally celebrated for its world-class automotive auctions, provides unparalleled service in the collector car market, offering a wide range of services including private and estate sales, appraisals and collection management.

In the past two years, Gooding & Company has realized the most prestigious automotive records in the world for a Car Sold at Auction with the iconic 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa Prototype at $16.39 million, an American Car at Auction with the 1931 Whittell Coupe Duesenberg Model J at $10.34 million, and the undisclosed private treaty sale of the world’s Most Valuable Car with the 1936 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic.

The auction house ignited 2012 achieving extraordinary results at its annual Scottsdale Auctions in January with more than $39.8 million in sales and 98% sold. Preceding each auction, a complete catalogue is made available online at www.goodingco.com and a
virtual auction guide is published via Gooding & Company’s IAC award-winning iPhone and iPad app.

For additional vehicle information and up-to-the-minute results, follow Gooding & Company on Facebook and Twitter @GoodingCompany. Renowned for its annual standing as the official auction house for the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, Gooding & Company will return to Pebble Beach, California on August 18 & 19, 2012.

SOURCE / CONTACT:
Katie Hellwig
Gooding & Company
Katie@goodingco.com
Main (310) 899-1960
Direct (310) 526-0584

Source:Gooding & Company
Photos: Heritage Motorwerks

Related articles

• Finest Porsche Collection of Matt Drendel offered at 2012 Gooding – Amelia Island Auction – March 9th, 2012 (dedeporsche.wordpress.com)

Photo credits by: Michael Jordan at Insideline

Thanks to Michael Jordan at Insideline for sharing!

This is Zwart’s street car, so he selected his options appropriately.

“Since I’m using it as my every-day car,” he says, “I got nav and XM satellite radio and all that funny stuff that really doesn’t line up for a full race car for the street, but I do need some things. Also I got a little red stitching inside.

“I deleted the graphics so I can go slightly low key. My last RS was black with black graphics, which worked well. It’s always dicey to order a color like this that is not usually available, but I must say I am very pleased how it came out.”

“Zwart grabbed his iPhone and did some pictures of his new car, both at Circle Porsche at Long Beach, California and next to his race shop.”

As Circle Porsche’s Michelle Larson says, “It’s the best part of this business. Everybody leaves here happy; after all, they’re taking a Porsche with them.”

The RS 4.0’s key feature is a 4.0-liter street-legal version of the racing-type RSR engine and it delivers 500 hp at 8,250 rpm and 339 lb-ft of torque at 5,750 rpm. The chassis setup is mid-way between the GT3 RS 3.8 and GT2 RS, and it includes rod-ends in the rear suspension. If you look closely, you’ll also notice the aero whiskers forward of the front wheels and a steeper, 9-degree inclination of the rear wing. Overall the car has 450 pounds of downforce at its top speed, some 82 pounds at the front and 348 pounds at the rear. The RS 4.0 gets to 100 km/hr (62 mph) in 3.9 seconds on the way to 193 mph.

Continue reading here at Insideline >> Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0 for the Mountain King

Photo credits by: Michael Jordan at Insideline

Photo credits by: Michael Jordan at Insideline

Photos / Source: Edmunds Insideline

Michael Jordan, Executive Editor, Edmunds.com

_____________________________________________

PAST JEFF ZWART PIKES PEAK VIDEOS:

The Road to Pikes Peak Hill Climb in a 911 GT2 RS with Jeff Zwart – 2011

Jeff in one of his shakedown runs in the 911 GT3 in preparation for his record setting Pike’s Peak hillclimb. – 2010

Fans in der Porsche-Arena

Stuttgart.In the opening tie of the 2012 Fed Cup season, Porsche Team Germany thrilled the sell-out crowd in the Porsche Arena with their great fighting spirit and excellent tennis – even though it did not suffice for them to progress to the hoped-for semifinal berth in the first round match against title-holders the Czech Republic.

Image via Wikipedia - Eingang Porsche Arena in Stuttgart

Though unable able to take their chances in the decisive moments, Sabine Lisicki, Julia Görges, Angelique Kerber and Anna-Lena Grönefeld nevertheless showed themselves to be a strong team in the 4-1 defeat.

Barbara Rittner (l.), Angelique Kerber, Porsche Team Deutschland

“We’re leaving Stuttgart with a great feeling,” said captain Barbara Rittner when summing up the Fed Cup weekend.

“I’m so-so proud of the girls. They’ve showed they’re highly talented and can excite the spectators.

Everything is very positive even though it wasn’t enough to win against such a strong opponent. Now we’re hoping for the luck of the draw and will do our very best to stay in the World Group.”

After Sabine Lisicki surprisingly lost the first rubber on Saturday 6-2, 4-6, 2-6 against Iveta Benesova and Julia Görges’ 6-3, 3-6, 8-10 defeat against Petra Kvitova in a high-class tennis thriller, Porsche Team Germany stood with their backs to the wall on Sunday.

Click to view slideshow.

Sabine Lisicki had to win to keep her team in the race to the semis, Cheered on by the Stuttgart crowd, the German, who played nowhere near her best the day before, took the first set 6-2.

Sabine Lisicki, Porsche Team Deutschland

She continued to play well in the second set against the Wimbledon champion and the current world No. 2 but eventually succumbed 6-4. In the third, the Czech proved to be too strong when running out a 6-2 winner.

“We’re obviously very disappointed. Nevertheless I’m very proud to have played much better today than I did yesterday,” said Sabine Lisicki, the world No. 14.

“Yesterday, I immediately lost plot when things weren’t going well. Today I served far better and my groundshots were also better. Unfortunately though I didn’t win the vital points and it made all the difference.

However these kind of matches are the ones that help me to improve this aspect of my game.”

With a bit of luck in the draw, the play-off, whereby the winning nation will contest the 2013 World Group, could also be staged in the Porsche Arena on 21 and 22 April.

Sabine Lisicki, Porsche Team Deutschland

Sabine Lisicki would be more than happy:

“It’s great playing at home.

The atmosphere in the Porsche Arena is awesome. It’s such fun and really motivating.”

In the second rubber of the day, Angelique Kerber notched up the first point for Porsche Team Germany.

Angelique Kerber, Porsche Team Deutschland

The German, who was one of last season’s top up-and-coming players after reaching the semifinals at the US Open, had relatively little trouble in overcoming Lucie Hradecka 6-4, 6-4.

Lucie Hradecka (CZ)

Angelique Kerber, Porsche Team Deutschland

“I’m so proud to have won my first Fed Cup singles for Germany,” she said.

“Even though it made no difference to the result, I gave my all – also for the crowd which has given us such fantastic support over the past two days.”

Iveta Benesova/Barbora Zahlavova-Strycova won the concluding doubles 6-3, 7-6 against Julia Görges/Anna-Lena Grönefeld.

SOURCE: Porsche AG Media Database

Communication Porsche AG
Porsche Tennis Grand Prix

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• Porsche Team Germany quietly hopeful going into the Fed Cup opener against the Czech Republic (dedeporsche.wordpress.com)

• Fed Cup Tennis Team to become “Porsche Team Germany” (dedeporsche.wordpress.com)

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Fed Cup, 1st Round in the Porsche Arena, Stuttgart: Germany – Czech Republic

Porsche Team Germany still hoping to reach semis

Tennis Fedcup World Group First Round 2012 – Germany Czech Republic in Stuttgart Germany – Porsche Team Deutschland: Anna-Lena Grönefeld, Sabine Lisicki, Barbara Rittner, Julia Görges, Angelique Kerber (v.l.)

Stuttgart. Porsche Team Germany hasn’t give up hope yet of reaching the Fed Cup semifinals.

Porsche Team Deutschland: Julia Görges, Angelique Kerber, Barbara Rittner, Anna-Lena Grönefeld, Sabine Lisicki (v. l.)

Even though, in spite of putting up stiff resistance, they are 2-0 behind at the end of the first day of the first round tie against title holders the Czech Republic in the Porsche Arena, captain Barbara Rittner still feels they are in with a chance of advancing.

“We’re not going to let our heads drop,”

she said, “Nothing’s lost yet.”

At the premiere of Porsche Team Germany, the sell-out crowd in the Porsche Arena experienced an unbelievably exciting tennis thriller. Julia Görges, who celebrated the biggest success of her career by winning the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix at the same venue one year ago, played out of her skin against Petra Kvitova.

Julia Görges, Porsche Team Deutschland

Petra Kvitova (CZ)

In the third set of the top class match, she had the Wimbledon champion and winner of the WTA Championships 2011 on the verge of a defeat. The German eventually went down 6-3, 3-6, 8-10 against the current world No. 2.

Click to view slideshow.

“In the first moments after such a tight match one’s naturally disappointed,” she said, but, “I can’t put any blame on myself but it just wasn’t enough in the end.

Nevertheless we’re not giving up. We’re a strong team and it’s not all over in such a situation.”

Commenting on her return to the Porsche Arena she said: “I had goose bumps all over. I really enjoyed everything out there. It’s an unbelievably nice feeling when everybody’s right behind you.”

In the opening rubber, Sabine Lisicki surprisingly lost 6-2, 4-6, 2-6 against Iveta Benesova. After taking the first set comfortably, it seemed the German, the world No. 14, would win the first point for Porsche Team Germany.

Sabine Lisicki, Porsche Team Deutschland

Iveta Benesova (CZ)

But then in the second set she failed to convert the chances she had to break and proceeded to let the match slip.

“I played aggressively from the start and kept fighting to the end,” said the visibly disappointed Lisicki, “but I didn’t serve hard enough and I couldn’t get any length in my shots.

It was the main reason why I wasn’t able to turn the match around in the third set.” She had no problems with pressure of being the team’s No. 1: “I normally play better under pressure.

But unfortunately it didn’t work out that way today. I hope I can show it again tomorrow.”

In spite of trailing the defending champions, Barbara Rittner is still hoping her players can pull off a surprise on Sunday.

Barbara Rittner, Julia Görges, Petra Kvitova (v.l.)

“Julia forced Petra to dig very deep physically in a fantastic match and Sabine can definitely play much better than she did today,” said the German captain.

“Up until the moment the Czech Republic wins the third point, then nothing’s decided.”

Starting at 11.00 am (local time), two further singles and a doubles will be played in the Porsche Arena on Sunday.

SOURCE: Porsche AG Media Database

Communication Porsche AG

Porsche Tennis Grand Prix

Related articles

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• Czechs take 2-0 lead against Germany in Fed Cup (cbssports.com)

I would have this PORSCHE Numero Uno sculpture in my yard any day…!!
LOVE !

It rolls, steers and you can sit in her and pretend you are shifting through the gears in your own garden. It is based on the first 356 in 1948 and is lovingly sculpted to show the lines, with just a little bit of greenery for contrast.

Porsche Team Deutschland: Sabine Lisicki, Anna-Lena Grönefeld, Barbara Rittner, Angelique Kerber, Julia Görges (v. l.)

“We’re always in with a chance”

Stuttgart. Porsche Team Germany are highly confident going into the Fed Cup 2012.

“We’ve got some strong players and we can beat anybody on a good day,” said team captain Barbara Rittner at a press conference in Stuttgart’s Porsche Arena where the first round match against the Czech Republic will be staged on 4 and 5 February. “We want to show that we’re in the World Group by right.”

In the opening tie of the world championships for women’s national teams, Barbara Rittner is pinning her faith in Sabine Lisicki, whose great performances have moved her up to 14th on the WTA World Rankings, Julia Görges (No. 21), Angelique Kerber (No. 27) and doubles specialist Anna-Lena Grönefeld.

Andrea Petkovic, last season’s most successful German player, is not available due to a back injury.

Porsche Team Deutschland bei der Pressekonferenz in Stuttgart: Angelique Kerber, Julia Görges, Barbara Rittner, Sabine Lisicki, Anna-Lena Grönefeld (v. l.)

Barbara Rittner nevertheless sees Porsche Team Germany as being in with a good chance.

“We’ve got strength in depth,” she said. “It can make all the difference in the end.”

With Petra Kvitova in their team, defending champions the Czech Republic will be lining up with one of the world’s top players. The current world No 2 last year won the Grand Slam tournament in Wimbledon as well as the WTA Championships in Istanbul and she recently reached the semifinals of the Australian Open.

Her teammates are Lucia Hradecka (No. 47), Iveta Benesova (No. 49) and Barbora Zahlavova Strycova (No. 53). Barbara Rittner:

“Obviously in the opening tie, I’d have wished for an easier opponent than, of all people, the title-holder. But if our players play to their limits, and with the crowd behind us, then we definitely stand a good chance.”

Sabine Lisicki, who has no qualms at being the German No 1 for the tough encounter, sees things the same way.

“For me it doesn’t mean any extra pressure, I see it more as being as a form of motivation,” said the world No 14 who lives in Berlin.

Julia Görges, who celebrated her biggest career success by winning last year’s Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in the Porsche Arena, is primarily pinning her hopes on the home advantage.

“The spectators will be right behind us for sure. For me personally, it’s doubly motivating to play in the Porsche Arena. Just entering the hall two days ago was a fantastic feeling.”

Angelique Kerber will be playing for Germany in the Fed Cup for the first time after a four-year absence. “It’s great being back in the fold,” she said.

When asked whether Porsche Team Germany have got a chance against the strong Czech side, Anna-Lena Grönefeld simply replied: “We’re always in with a chance.”

After the Opening Ceremony at 11.45 am (local time), two singles are on Saturday’s schedule in the Porsche Arena.

Starting at 11.00 am, Sunday’s play will take in two singles and the doubles. Tickets are available at Easy Ticket Service (telephone +49 711-2555 555, internet www.easyticket.de).

SOURCE: Communication Porsche AG - Porsche Tennis Grand Prix

Matthias Müller, Vorstandsvorsitzender der Porsche AG (r), mit DTB-Präsident Dr. Karl-Georg Altenburg und dem Porsche Team Deutschland

Porsche extends its tennis sponsoring by becoming a German Tennis Association Premium Partner

Stuttgart. The German women’s tennis team containing the world class players Andrea Petkovic, Sabine Lisicki, Julia Görges and Angelique Kerber will enter the 2012 season as “Porsche Team Deutschland”.

Matthias Müller, Vorstandsvorsitzender der Porsche AG (l), DTB-Präsident Dr. Karl-Georg Altenburg bei der Vorstellung des Porsche Team Deutschland in Stuttgart

As the new Premium Partner of the Deutscher Tennis Bund (German Tennis Association – DTB), Porsche will support the flagship team of the world’s largest tennis association in their campaign to win the Fed Cup and will simultaneously also sponsor junior tennis.

Sabine Lisicki, Porsche Team Germany

The junior national team (U16) will in future compete as the “Porsche Talent Team Germany”. Porsche has thus strengthened its involvement in the women’s game.

The Porsche Tennis Grand Prix was once again voted by the players as their favourite tournament worldwide in 2011.

Anna-Lena Grönefeld, Porsche Team Germany

As a result of the cooperation with the DTB, which will initially run for the next three years, Porsche will stimulate a new dynamism within German women’s tennis.

“We want the German players to also be successful as a team,” said Matthias Müller, President and CEO of Porsche AG. Germany’s junior players, whose development is close to Porsche’s heart, will also profit from the success of the top women.

“Playing tennis is far more fun for youngsters when they have role models. We want to play our part in making sure there are such role models in the future too,” continued Matthias Müller.

“One of our most important aims over the coming years is that German women’s tennis establishes itself long term at the top again,” said DTB President Dr Karl-Georg Altenburg.

“The cooperation with Porsche enables us to optimise the structure to achieve it and to invest in junior coaching. Particularly important here is to put the necessary measures in place for the coaching programmes designed for our up-and-coming female players.”

Julia Görges, Porsche Team Germany

“Porsche Team Germany” will celebrate its premiere against the Fed Cup title holders the Czech Republic in Stuttgart’s Porsche Arena on 4 and 5 February.

The Fed Cup is a competition for the world’s top tennis nations where the title as the women’s team world champion is at stake.

Angelique Kerber, Porsche Team Germany

The partnership with the DTB also demonstrates a clear commitment by Porsche for the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix.

“We also want to continue to present our audience in the Porsche Arena with the world’s top players and the best Germans – and if possible a German winner every now and again,” said Matthias Müller. Markus Günthardt, the Tournament Director of the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, believers the long-standing tournament will therefore become even more attractive:

“The players supported by Porsche are quite capable of winning important tournaments and can maybe make a major breakthrough in the near future. We’ve had to wait a long time for such strong German players ever since the Steffi Graf and Anke Huber era.”

The support for DTB is an essential part of Porsche’s sponsoring concept which covers every part of society. Thus the company is also the partner of the world famous Stuttgart Ballet and the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra under the banner “Premium meets Premium”. It additionally also supports junior activities in sport clubs in Baden Württemberg and Saxony as well as a variety of scientific and charity projects. By sponsoring a broad spectrum of activities, Porsche wants to further embrace its social responsibility within society.

Andrea Petkovic, Porsche Team Germany

The 35th Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, for which all the top 10 WTA ranked players have entered, including, for the first time, superstar Maria Sharapova, will be held in Stuttgart’s Porsche Arena from 21 to 29. April.

Advance ticket sales are available at Easy Ticket Service (phone +49 711-2555 555, internet at www.easyticket.de).

SOURCE : Porsche AG Media Press Database 

Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup

Makes cup pilots shine at 24 hour race in Daytona

Stuttgart. At the famous 24 hour race in Daytona/USA in a field stronger than ever before, pilots from the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup impressed with outstanding performances.

At his first attempt, René Rast (Germany), the Supercup champion of 2010 and 2011, won the long distance classic in Florida with the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup together with Porsche works driver Richard Lietz (Austria) and Americans Andy Lally and John Potter.

Jeroen Bleekemolen from the Netherlands, title winner of the world’s fastest international one-make race series in 2008 and 2009, scored second place with Porsche factory pilot Wolf Henzler (Germany) as well as Marc Goossens (Belgium), Spencer Pumpelly and Steven Bertheau (both USA). 

“A dream has come true with this victory,” said René Rast, winner of five Supercup rounds last year, including the Porsche Carrera World Cup on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. In recognition of his outstanding achievements last season, Porsche gave Rast the opportunity of competing in Daytona.

Jeroen Bleekemolen stated:

“That was undoubtedly the most intensely competitive 24 hour race I’ve ever driven. To finish second here is a fantastic effort from the entire team.”

Jonas Krauss, Manager of the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup, was also very pleased with his drivers’ performances on the Daytona International Speedway.

“Our pilots have done an excellent job in this world-class field,” he said.

“The fact that René could win at his Daytona debut and Jeroen also climbed the podium in second clearly shows that some of the best GT pilots in the world are contesting the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup and they can hold their own anywhere.”

 

Other Supercup pilots in Daytona were Britain’s Sean Edwards and Nick Tandy, who finished in 18th place.

Position 24 was occupied by Frenchman Kévin Estre, the 2011 “Rookie of the Year” in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup. Porsche also gave him the chance to start in Daytona in recognition of his strong performance as the most successful Supercup newcomer by far.

The three Porsche works drivers Wolf Henzler, Richard Lietz and Marc Lieb, who shared the GT podium in Daytona with René Rast and Jeroen Bleekemolen, also first proved themselves in the Porsche makes cup series. Wolf Henzler was the Supercup champion of 2004, and Marc Lieb clinched the title in the 2002 Porsche Carrera Cup.

SOURCE:  Porsche AG Media Press Database    Communication Porsche AG Motorsportpress

If you’re the sort of person who gets unfeasibly excited and lightly feverish when presented with a classic, mint condition old-school sportscar previously owned by someone very cool and very famous, then, frankly, you’re our sort of person.

And thus, today is a good day for you, because a Porsche 911 previously owned by Top GearMagazine’s Man of the Year (2011) Jenson Button is up for sale.

Formula One ace Jenson Button is selling his classic Porsche 911 – for a staggering £210,000. The Somerset-born star owns a string of supercars made by Ferrari, McLaren and Bugatti.

But his 1973 Carrera RS is considered the ‘holy grail’ of 911 models and is highly sought after by collectors.

Porsche wanted to race the 911 but was required to build 500 ‘homologation’ models which could be driven legally on roads beforehand.

So they launched the Carrera RS – with Button’s sports car the first Porsche which wealthy businessmen could drive to work in during the week and thrash around a racetrack at the weekend. It was a stiffer, lighter, more powerful 911 fitted with a 2.7-litre engine developing 210bhp.

A huge demand meant Porsche ended up building 1,590 models, with Jenson’s 1,280 off the production line.

And it’s no ordinary Porsche 911.

It is a 1973 2.7 Carrera RS.

This very fact should send a shiver of fizz right through to your extremities. Don’t forget, it’s the car Porsche had to homologate in order to go racing back in the 1970s.

They had to build a minimum of 500, but actually churned out 1590 because of the demand.

Compared to the standard 911, the 2.7 Carrera RS models featured stiffer suspension, larger brakes, wider rear wheels and arches and, of course,

……that fabulous ‘duck-tail’ rear spoiler.

The engine was a 2.7-litre flat-sixer producing 210bhp and became the fastest road-going car in Germany of its day.

0-60mph took just under six seconds and flat out, the RS would top 152mph.

Jenson picked up this ultimate collectors’ Porsche just two years ago, number 1280 of the 1590 model run, which has covered just 25,000 miles.

It reportedly spent most of its life in Italy, owned early in its life by Mario Angiolini, founder of the ‘Jolly Club’ Italian racing team.

So you can imagine that being a rare 2.7 Carrera RS, in black, previously owned by the 2009 Formula One world champion and all-round top bloke, would command a significant premium over its lowly siblings.

You’d be right.

This particular Porsche is on the market for £209,850.

Fancy it?

It’s a bargain at a little over 330K USD!

SOURCE: Top Gear