One-off cars commissioned by VIP people In compliance with current regulations

In the first two parts of our story, we explored the one-off cars commissioned by affluent clients, beginning with a rolling chassis __One-off cars commissioned by VIP people When coachbuilders were like tailors__ and then those that had to confront the constraints of industrial production __One-off cars commissioned by VIP people. When originality was possible__. Now, in our third and final segment, we focus on more recent cars adhering to current homologation regulations, resulting in increased homologation constraints. In practice, this includes the entire seatbelt system, airbags, and much more. However, the underlying goal remains unchanged.

Let’s start with the exception that proves the rule. In 1975, Porsche’s racing department received a call requesting to purchase a 917K for road use. The caller? None other than Count Rossi di Montelera, owner of Martini & Rossi and the Porsche sponsor with the iconic Martini Racing livery. On chassis number 30, the final one from Weissach, mirrors and an exhaust silencer were fitted. However, the German manufacturer declined to register it. Eventually, the State of Alabama, USA, offered the possibility of homologating a racing car for road use. The operation was completed, concluding with the signing of a letter stipulating that it not be driven within state lines. Contrary to expectations, Count Rossi frequently took it for a spin.