The 962CR is essentially a Porsche Group C race car for the road. It’s based on the Porsche 962, one of the most successful race cars ever, which led the company to victories at the 24 hours of Le Mans in 1986 and 1987.
One of Porsche’s drivers, Vern Schuppan, a Le Mans winner with Porsche in 1983, drove a 962 for his own team (Team Schuppan) in the 1989 race. When support by Porsche and the racing cycle of the 962 ended, Vern decided to take these racing cars and convert them into road cars at the team’s facilities in England. The project was backed by Japanese investors and a total of 6 cars were made.
The 962CR, like the race car, is powered by a twin-turbo 3.3-litre flat-6 engine which produces about 600hp with the power going to the rear wheels through a 5-speed manual gearbox. The monocoque and the bespoke body are made of carbon fibre. The suspension has spring rates and dampers for road-use and the interior is covered in leather that adds a touch of luxury.
Just by standing next to the car one can immediately recognise that this car is special. The car is low and wide at 2 metres but it’s relatively short giving slightly unusual proportions. Opening the small doors reveals a cramped interior with two seats and massive sills that have to be managed to get inside.
While the 962CR is road-legal, it’s still a legendary group C Porsche race car underneath, very few cars have made such an extreme transition.
Featured image by Ken Saito (@kenmsaito)
VIN: AS962CRP2
Year/Make/Model: 962CR Schuppan
Exterior Color: Black
