Le Mans-Winning Legend: Porsche 956-003

The 956 model changed the landscape of prototype sports cars and dominated the Group-C racing circuit in its day. Porsche Racing engineers utilized a unique aerodynamic principle known as ground effects to create large amounts of downforce to increase handling on the track. This 1982 Porsche 956, chassis 003, is among the most historic endurance racing cars and the single most successful Porsche 956.

The illustrious racing career of 956-003 started at the 1982 24 Hours of Le Mans when driven by Jochen Mass and Vern Schuppan. It placed second overall as part of a Porsche sweep of the top three positions. After that fantastic initial result, this 956 went on to win the next four races in which it was entered and was piloted by the best drivers of the era including Jacky Ickx, Jochen Mass, and Derek Bell. In 1983, 956-003 was again pressed into duty as one of three cars entered by the Porsche factory team for the 24 Hours of Le Mans. After 24 hours of grueling competition, 956-003, with Al Holbert aboard, crossed the finish line in first place, 63 seconds ahead of 956-001 and Bell in one of the most thrilling finishes in Le Mans history. With its exclusive works car status, longtail Le Mans bodywork, iconic Rothmans livery, and exceptional competition record, 956-003 must be considered among the most significant Porsche racing cars, and thus, one of the finest competition cars built since WWII.