The Porsche 908/3 was first developed in 1970 and represents a significant evolution of the Porsche series. Successor to the Porsche 908/2, which also achieved notable success in the world of motorsport, the Porsche 908/3 was designed to meet the specific demands of endurance racing. Leading the development were engineers Ferdinand Piëch and Hans Mezger, known for numerous technical innovations. The car's construction was aimed at combining low weight with high aerodynamics, enabling its use on twisty tracks like the Targa Florio and the Nürburgring.
The Porsche 908/3 was equipped with an air-cooled, 3-liter eight-cylinder boxer engine that produced around 350 horsepower at 8,400 rpm. Weighing just under 545 kilograms (1201.4 pounds), it was an absolute lightweight, allowing for impressive performance and handling. The chassis consisted of an aluminum spaceframe covered with a lightweight plastic body, significantly enhancing aerodynamics. The suspension system featured a double wishbone design at both axles, improving stability and handling.
The Porsche 908/3 achieved remarkable success in motorsport, especially in the years 1970 and 1971. A highlight was the victory at the 1970 Targa Florio. Well-known drivers like Brian Redman and Jo Siffert piloted the vehicle to numerous wins. Other renowned pilots who drove the Porsche 908/3 included Vic Elford and Hans Herrmann, who also made significant contributions to the model's success.
The striking design of the Porsche 908/3 in the Gulf livery is unmistakable. The model's body features a light blue base color with prominent orange stripes. This livery was the hallmark of Gulf racing cars and is detailed accurately on the model car. Additionally, sponsors like Gulf and BP are prominently displayed on the body, reflecting the original design authentically. The large white round number panels with the number 7 enhance the sporty look of the model.
The model of the Porsche 908/3 by AUTOart in 1/18 scale from the "boxengasse" collection stands out for its impressive attention to detail. Visible features such as the delicate roll bars, the distinctive air intakes, and the accurately reproduced sponsor decals make this model a captivating collector's item. The high-quality materials and precise craftsmanship reflect the manufacturing quality. Especially the cockpit details like the dashboard, steering wheel, and seats are well replicated, emphasizing the authenticity of this model car.