Legendary Porsche 904 GTS Set to Collect Millions at Auction
Vintage Porsche racer with star-studded ownership history crosses the block in Scottsdale on January 17.
Few cars in the history of motorsports measure up to the immense impact that the Porsche 904 GTS left in its wake. Porsche designed the groundbreaking racer to dominate the competition from day one. And it did just that, racking up 300 class wins and 145 overall victories in its time on the track. So it’s no wonder that today, what’s left of the 106 original cars trade for huge money.
That looks to be the future for this gorgeous green 1964 Porsche 904 GTS as well. Set to cross the block at Bonhams’ Scottsdale sale on January 17, auction estimates range from $1.4 to $1.6 million. Much of that value can be attributed to its star-studded ownership history that includes award-winning actor and director Robert Redford and Steve Earle, founder of the Monterey Historic Races.
Earle originally ordered chassis number 904 012 and brought it to the U.S. to compete in the 1964 racing season. To get the car there in time, it was famously flown via Pan American jet from Stuttgart to New York. Despite this, Earle never actually raced his shiny new Porsche 904 GTS. He sold the car to another enthusiast, Steve Berg, who campaigned it with Otto Zipper and Precision Motor Car livery.
After competing in dozens of races, Berg sold the car to Redford in 1966. The famous actor kept it for nearly a decade before moving on. After that, the Porsche 904 changed hands a few times. Eventually, it received a period correct restoration in the early ’90s.
Today, this historic Porsche racer is looking for a new home once again. The new owner could choose to restore it back to its original livery and show it off. Or perhaps continue its racing career on the vintage circuit. Either way, you won’t find many more intriguing rides out there in the world!
