The Unbelievable Tale of How Nissan Dissected a $3 Million Porsche to Revolutionize AWD Systems
The automotive world is no stranger to tales of rivalry and espionage, but few stories are as captivating as Nissan's covert operation involving a $3 million Porsche 959. This narrative is not just about metal and horsepower; it's a chronicle of relentless ambition, advanced engineering, and a pivotal moment in all-wheel drive (AWD) technology that forever changed the automotive landscape.
The Protagonist: Porsche 959, An Engineering Marvel
Beyond its stunning facade, the Porsche 959 is renowned for pioneering technological advancements, particularly its sophisticated AWD system. The 959 wasn't just a car; it was Porsche's ambition on wheels, pushing boundaries of what was possible in the 80s. Among the automotive elite, it stands as a testament to innovation and performance excellence.
The Plot: Nissan's Bold Move
In an audacious feat of automotive espionage, Nissan acquired a Porsche 959 through a Belgian distributor, aiming to deconstruct its secrets. The car in question, chassis number 022, was one of the mere 266 units ever produced, making this act not just bold, but bordering on audacious. Nissan's goal? To unravel the mysteries of the 959's AWD system and apply this hitherto unparalleled knowledge to their own engineering endeavors.
The Twist: Engineering Mastery Unleashed
Upon the car's arrival in Japan, Nissan's engineers meticulously dismantled this marvel, studying it with a fervor reserved for the most sacred texts. Their objective was crystal clear: to decode the 959's AWD system and incorporate its superior technology into Nissan's flagship models. This wasn't mere imitation; it was an ambition to evolve, to harness a superior technology and create something uniquely their own.
The Impact: Shaping the Future of AWD
The insights gleaned from the 959 were instrumental in developing the AWD system for the R32-generation Skyline GT-R, a car that would go on to redefine the possibilities of performance and handling in the automotive world. Nissan's foray into the unknown paid dividends, marking a significant leap in AWD technology, and shaping the future of high-performance vehicles.
The Restoration: Canepa's Magic Touch
Fast forward to 2019, and the same Porsche 959 found its way into the capable hands of Canepa, renowned for their meticulous restorations. Over 4,000 hours and $950,000 later, the 959 was not just restored but reimagined. Its transformation under the '959 SC Reimagined by Canepa' program elevated the car to new heights of performance and luxury, painting it in an exclusive shade of Oak Green.
The Performance: A Beast Reborn
Thanks to Canepa's enhancements, this 959 now boasts over 800 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque, catapulting it from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 230 mph. The original engineering marvel, enhanced with modern prowess, has set a new benchmark for what's possible.
The Auction: A Priceless Legacy
Now, as this Porsche 959 prepares to grace the auction block, it represents more than just a car; it's a piece of automotive history, a bridge between past innovation and future potential. With an anticipated auction price range of $3.25 to $3.75 million, this 959 is not just a vehicle; it's an investment into the legacy of automotive excellence.