The Porsche 917 K is one of the most iconic racing cars in history and marks a period of success for the German car manufacturer Porsche. The "K" version, which stands for "Kurzheck" (German for "short tail"), was developed in the early 70s and is known for its exceptional performance and aerodynamic efficiency. The Porsche 917 K was built between 1969 and 1971 and was an evolution of the original long-tail version. The car was mainly known for its victories in endurance races and still holds a high status in the collector's scene.
The Porsche 917 K was equipped with an air-cooled 12-cylinder engine developed by the renowned engineer Hans Mezger. The engine, which generated an incredible output of around 600 horsepower from a displacement of 4.5 liters (274 cubic inches), made it one of the most powerful racing cars of its time. The lightweight construction with a total weight of under 800 kilograms (1764 pounds) and the consistent use of aerodynamic elements like the short tail significantly contributed to its performance. With a top speed of over 360 kilometers per hour (224 miles per hour), the Porsche 917 K set new standards in motorsport.
The Porsche 917 K achieved tremendous success in motorsport, especially at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where it claimed the long-awaited overall victory for Porsche in 1970. Famous drivers like Hans Herrmann and Richard Attwood piloted the car to this historic win. In the following year, 1971, the Porsche 917 K triumphed again at Le Mans, this time driven by Gijs van Lennep and Helmut Marko. These successes played a crucial role in solidifying the 917's reputation as an unbeatable racing machine.
The model of the Porsche 917 K shown here in a scale of 1/18 is from the esteemed manufacturer AUTOart and is made from high-quality diecast material. The model is part of the collection of Modelly member "Play-X" and captures all the distinctive details of the original, such as the aerodynamic shape, special headlights, and prominent sponsor logos. The standout red and white livery with the number "23" and sponsor logos including Shell and Goodyear make a striking impression. The model excellently encapsulates the spirit and details of the historic racing car.
This AUTOart Porsche 917 K model in a scale of 1/18 impresses with its precise replication and authentic details. The vibrant red paint job, accented with white stripes and clearly visible sponsor logos, is executed with precision, giving the model a high level of authenticity. The number "23" is a standout feature, as well as the meticulously replicated interior details. The Goodyear-logoed tires, fine ventilation slots, and accurately reproduced air intakes make this model a special highlight for collectors and fans of historical racing machines.