1964 PORSCHE 904 GTS RACE CAR

Porsche released the 904 in 1963 as a purpose-built race car with road-going versions built to satisfy the FIA's homologation requirements. An aerodynamic fiberglass body over a steel ladder chassis and a mid-engine layout gave the car superb handling, and with a weight of just over 1,400 pounds, it's four-cylinder engine earned it the "giant-killer" reputation Porsche was known for. The 904 up for auction here was delivered in 1964 and campaigned in a hill climb only a month later. An accident caused the car to be sold in the mid 60's to its next owner without an engine or gearbox, where it was restored and given a six-cylinder motor like later 904 models. The car has been on display since the early 90's and will require a thorough going-over before being driven, but as the car that led directly to the legendary 917, the 904 has an important place in Porsche history.