Porsche 904 classic cars for sale
The Porsche 904 Carrera GTS, produced between 1963 and 1965, is a rare sporting coupé developed for both the road and the racetrack. With its lightweight construction and racing pedigree, the 904 stands out as a bridge between Porsche's early competition cars and later motorsport icons.
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1964 | Porsche 904 Carrera GTS
Porsche 904 Carrera GTS (by Duel Motorsport)
1964 | Porsche 904 Carrera GTS
Stunningly original | Elaborate racing history | The ultimate Führmann-engined Porsche
History of the Porsche 904 Carrera GTS
After formally ending its Formula 1 involvement in 1962, Porsche shifted its engineering focus to purpose-built competition sports cars. The answer was the Porsche 904 Carrera GTS, introduced in 1963 and manufactured through 1965 in Stuttgart, Germany. The 904 was engineered as a road-legal GT car suitable for both contemporary racing series and public roads. Unlike its predecessors, it adopted a pioneering approach—a glass fibre-reinforced plastic (GRP) body bonded to a steel chassis, offering rigidity and significant weight reduction. This modern technique enabled Porsche to homologate the 904 for GT racing and paved the way for similar construction in future models.
Model History
The 904 succeeded the popular Porsche 718, launched in 1952. It inherited a robust mid-mounted 1.6-litre four-cylinder boxer engine, capable of 180 hp, and paired with a five-speed manual transmission. This engine, praised for its durability, was already proven in the 550 Spyder and the 356 Carrera. The 904’s immediate successor was the Porsche 906 Carrera 6, which followed a similar philosophy, continuing road legality but evolving in aerodynamics, chassis, and engine options. Alongside its racing usage, the 904 established the two-seater configuration as the norm for Porsche’s sports racing cars.
Highlights and Unique Features of the Porsche 904
The 904 introduced glass fibre-reinforced plastic for its bodywork—a groundbreaking move in the early 1960s for reducing weight while maintaining structural rigidity. It weighed just approximately 1,430 kg, delivering superior aerodynamics and nimbleness. The minimalist two-seat cockpit brought driving focus and quickly set the standard for Porsche’s future competition cars. The 904 raced in over a thousand events and secured hundreds of victories, with access to both privateers and official works drivers.
Technical Data
Special Editions and Collectible Variants
The 904 Carrera GTS was itself a limited-production model. Some examples were fitted with six- or eight-cylinder engines for factory team or privateer competition, but the standard run was fewer than 120 units, all with the four-cylinder. These rare variants are highly valued by collectors due to their motorsport provenance and production numbers.
Engine, Performance and Handling
The 1.6-litre, four-cylinder boxer in the 904 produced 180 hp, ensuring brisk acceleration and a top speed suited to 1960s GT competition. The lightweight chassis and aerodynamic design offered sharp responses and stability at speed. Notably, the 904 excelled in both circuit racing and long-distance events, underscoring its versatility. The most interesting examples are those equipped with the rare six- or eight-cylinder engines and those that have documented racing history from period championships such as Le Mans or Targa Florio.
Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design Features
Designed with racing in mind, the 904 interior is spartan yet purposeful, prioritising function over luxury. Two seats, minimal upholstery, and focus on controls allow the driver to concentrate on driving. The bodywork, developed for low drag, features clean lines and integrated headlights. The use of glass fibre was innovative, while small details—such as the flush-fitting windscreen and compact rear engine deck—serve both aesthetic and aerodynamic functions. Factory cars could also feature additional racing equipment as required.
Other Notable Aspects
The Porsche 904’s value has steadily increased, with notable examples fetching upwards of 1.6 million dollars at major international auctions. Its broad participation in historic racing—like Le Mans Classic and Monterey Historics—further validates its enduring legacy.
Summary
The Porsche 904 Carrera GTS combines pioneering materials, competitive pedigree, and motorsport innovation into a single, rare package. With its lasting impact on both Porsche’s racing history and collector interest, the 904 remains a reference point for serious enthusiasts seeking a unique piece of motorsport engineering.