While we’re far from being gearheads, we always relish a good car story. That’s why when we caught in the wind that a Porsche 959 was hitting the auction block, we knew we had to share. It’s arguably one of the most nefarious cars in the US; a status largely acquired because it was formerly unavailable on American soil.
That’s right before 1999 it was actually illegal to import the 959. Porsche refused to comply with United States Department of Transportation regulations during the car’s development stages, and as, a result. The model was deemed unlawful. Essentially, Porsche would have been required to send four 959s to be crash tested for safety… We can’t say we really blame them for refusing, but it certainly made life difficult for the avid connoisseur like Bill Gates, who spent the better part of 29 years just trying to get his through customs. In fact, the Microsoft tycoon was so inflexible about getting the sporty driving machine into his collection, he was quietly instrumental helping to pass the “Show and Display” law that allowed it to happen.
Still, without special qualification the 959 is not considered street legal in America. A large swathe of automotive historians cite it as the first modern supercar, and its souped-up features support the theory while simultaneously making the model an outlaw of the road.
Currently, there is one set to be sold on August 14 through Quail Lodge Auction. It was previously owned and modified by Japanese collector Yoshiho Matsuda. Although it took five years and cost over $180,000, Matsuda got the vehicle to adhere to US DOT standards.
If you’ve got somewhere between $1,000,000 and $1,250,000 to your name you can register to bid through Bonhams now.
SOURCE: SILODROME
GODLYCONCEPT 