1971 Porsche 908/3
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The Porsche 908/3 sports car was introduced in 1971 as a successor to the Porsche 908/2. Designed to compete in endurance races, the 908/3 was specifically developed for tight and twisty tracks like the Nurburgring and Targa Florio. The Porsche 908/3 was powered by a 3.0-liter flat-eight engine which produced an impressive 370 horsepower. The vehicle's advanced aerodynamics provide high levels of downforce and help to maintain optimal speed through corners.
The Porsche 908/3's usage of lightweight fiberglass and aluminum-intensive monocoque technology managed to reduce its total weight to a mere 590kg making it an agile and nimble racer. These technical advancements gave the 908/3 a distinct advantage over its predecessors, allowing it to achieve top speeds of approximately 190 miles per hour.
The 908/3 packed a lot of technical upgrades compared to previous Porsche race cars such as a dry sump oil system, electronic fuel injection providing exceptional performance and reliability to the high-revving, naturally aspirated flat-eight engine. Similarly, the vehicle's advanced suspension system featured coil springs, inboard-mounted shock absorbers, and double-wishbone suspension.
The low-slung bodywork on the Porsche 908/3 favours performance over aesthetics, incorporating the iconic Martini Racing livery. The bodywork has been designed to stay stable at high speeds by creating incredibly low drag and downforce. The smooth, angular lines are unadorned and functional, adding to the overall performance of the car.
The instrument cluster inside the cockpit of the Porsche 908/3 is a simple but comprehensive display of the car's vital statistics. The dashboard features prominent red needles and displays the speed, RPM, fuel and water temperature gauges, all within easy reach of the driver.
Overall, the Porsche 908/3 remains one of the most iconic endurance sports cars ever built in the world. Its advanced technology, lightweight construction, and agile handling make it a prime example of Porsche engineering at its finest. With its impressive technical specifications, the Porsche 908/3 remains an important part of global sports car racing history.
Milestones
- 1970: Porsche begins development of the 908/3 based on the successful 908/02 - January 1971: The first Porsche 908/3 prototype is completed - May 1971: The Porsche 908/3 makes its racing debut at the Targa Florio in Italy - June 1971: The Porsche 908/3 wins its first race at the Nurburgring 1000km in Germany - July 1971: Porsche 908/3 takes victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, driven by Helmut Marko and Gijs van Lennep - September 1971: The Porsche 908/3 sets a new lap record at the Nurburgring during the European Hillclimb Championship race - November 1971: Porsche 908/3 wins the Watkins Glen 6 Hours endurance race in the United States - 1972: Porsche 908/3 continues to dominate in races around the world, winning the Targa Florio, the Spa 1000km, and the Nurburgring 1000km for the second consecutive year.Technical
- Engine: 3.0-liter flat-eight - Power output: 370 horsepower at 8,400 rpm - Top speed: around 190 mph - Weight: 1,350 pounds - Chassis: aluminum monocoque - Suspension: double wishbone with coil-over dampers - Brakes: ventilated disc brakes - Transmission: five-speed manual - Differential: limited-slip - Fuel tank capacity: 27 gallons - Tires: front 9.5 x 15, rear 12.0 x 15 - Wheelbase: 89.4 inches - Track width: front 57.5 inches, rear 60.7 inches - Length: 153.5 inches - Width: 65.4 inches - Height: 34.2 inches - Production years: 1970-1973 - Number produced: 13 - Competition history: won the Targa Florio and the Nurburgring 1000 km in 1970, and won the Sebring 12 Hours in 1971.Related manufacturer
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