Porsche 908 classic cars for sale

History of the Porsche 908

In 1968, Porsche launched the 908 to answer new International Championship for Makes regulations, capping displacement at three litres. Led by Ferdinand Piëch, the car was designed by Helmuth Bott (chassis) and Hans Mezger (engine), evolving out of the 906, 910 and 907. Porsche set out to build a racing car capable of outright wins—investing in a lightweight chassis, advanced aerodynamics and a completely new flat-eight engine producing 320 to over 350 hp during its career. The 908 debuted as a coupé and was soon developed into several variants—including the 908/02 Spyder and the ultra-light 908/03, optimised for tight, twisty tracks. The versatility of the design helped Porsche score major victories and titles, establishing the 908 as a vital tool in Porsche’s motorsport arsenal. By 1976, the 936 succeeded the 908 as Porsche’s endurance prototype.

Model history of the Porsche 908

The 908 continued Porsche’s line of sports prototypes, following the 906, 910, and 907. It premiered as a closed coupé (908-01), soon followed by the lighter Spyder (908/02) and finally the 908/03, an ultra-light, minimalist version for tracks like the Nürburgring and Targa Florio. Each evolution saw refinements—weight reduction, improved aerodynamics, changes in transmission (from six- to five-speed gearboxes) and continuous engine upgrades. After its retirement from factory competition, the lineage passed to the turbocharged 936 prototype, but the 908’s influence stretched through privateer racing for years thereafter.

Highlights of the Porsche 908

The 908’s lightweight structure and uncompromising race focus set new standards in engineering. Variants like the 908/03 weighed just 500 kg and were built with glass fibre bodywork. Of special significance: it held outright victories at the Nürburgring 1000km four times, secured class wins and the Index of Performance at Le Mans, and featured in the Steve McQueen film 'Le Mans.' Historic drivers, including Vic Elford and Dr. Helmut Marko, achieved major results with this car. The 908 was central to Porsche’s long-distance race reputation.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Notable special versions include the 908/02 Langheck Flunder Spyder, famous for its Le Mans appearances and Index of Performance win in 1970, and the 908/03, known as the 'bicycle' due to its extremely low weight—especially favoured on twisty circuits like the Targa Florio. The Martini International Racing Team cars and film-featured cars (such as those in 'Le Mans') are especially prized for their provenance and were driven by legendary racers in many international events.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Period racing prototypes such as the 908 demand specialist maintenance, especially concerning the flat-eight engine's precision and fragility, as well as the chassis integrity. Key factors are regular inspection of structural components, attention to historical authenticity, and sourcing correct racing components. Detailed documented service history is essential for these cars. Always ensure professional evaluation for race-used or restored vehicles.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

Engineered as a pure racing prototype, the Porsche 908 delivers crisp power delivery from its highly-strung eight-cylinder boxer engine and agile handling thanks to its focus on lightweight construction. The initial Coupé combined powerful engine output with superior aerodynamics, while the Spyder and 908/03 pushed the boundaries for minimal weight and maximum cornering capability. Race-developed suspensions and advanced transmission options enabled the car to excel across both high-speed and technical circuits. Notably, the long-tail models were purpose-built for events such as Le Mans, while the short-tail and open models proved their worth on demanding tracks such as the Targa Florio. - Porsche 908/02 Langheck Flunder Spyder (1969): Class winner and Index of Performance victor at Le Mans 1970.

• Porsche 908/03: 500 kg kerb weight, legendary at Nürburgring and Targa Florio, valued for its agility and innovative construction.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Porsche 908 design strictly serves function: bodywork in glass fibre kept weight low, with cockpit layouts focused on direct driver engagement and optimal visibility. Coupé variants feature streamlined glasshouse and compact cockpit, while Spyders and 908/03 maximise weight savings and track-specific ergonomics. Liveries range from iconic Martini Racing stripes to customer team colours. Exposed chassis components and minimalist interior controls are hallmarks of the 908’s uncompromising race intent. Period-correct details and accessories—such as competition instruments and quick-release steering wheels—are critical for authenticity. Upholstery was sparse and secondary to saving weight.

Other Features

The 908’s fame stretches into pop culture through its role in the film 'Le Mans' with Steve McQueen. Many 908s continued to compete successfully with privateers after works retirement, cementing their reputation in historic motorsport. Documentation and race history are significant factors for collectors.

Summary

The Porsche 908 is a landmark in Porsche’s racing history—an engineering exercise in pushing the limits of lightness, power, and reliability under the most demanding circumstances. Its enduring presence in motorsport, record on historic tracks, and association with world-famous drivers earn it a special place among classic competition machinery. Each surviving 908 is a highly engineered piece of racing history that brings with it the aura of international endurance racing’s golden era.