Classic Restoration Challenge 2022

2022 Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge

Brief History:

The Porsche 917/30 crushed all competition in the can-am series in 1973, so dominating the series, with Penske driver Mark Donohue winning the last six of eight total rounds, that the SCCA rewrote the rules to essentially outlaw the last of the truly unlimited road-racing cars. Porsche celebrated its 1,000 plus-horsepower wrecking machine in 1974 by selling 1,000 special 914s, each a 2.0-liter model with a couple of specific options and each available with special badging and only on two separate color schemes.

The limited-edition model was produced from mid-February through early April of 1974. Porsche selected the le moniker because the SCCA simply asked too much for the rights to license the can-am name on the cars, though they agreed in principle to allow it. All 1,000 cars produced were imported to the U.S. and Canada. 500 in black with sunflower yellow accents and the other 500 in ivory white with phoenix red accents. The bumpers, valances, rocker panels, wheel centers, and special front spoiler were painted in the accent color the LE also featured Mahle wheels, sway bars, driving lights, map box, and foam steering wheel. A "negative" stripe that spelled out "Porsche" was optional and installed just above the rocker panels. These color schemes earned them the nicknames "Bumblebee" and "Creamsicle."

Progress Report:

February - The 914 was completely stripped to a bare body and sent out for media blasting. Media blasting is the way to see any hidden flaws in the original metal. Next, all of the interior components were sent out for refinishing, including the gauges. On February 19, 2022, we hosted a classic event displaying the car after the media blasting.
March - The engine and transmission were completely disassembled for inspection. We then order all the necessary components to give them new life. All of the hardware was sorted and sent for refinishing. The 914 hardware is unique because it requires finishes in black, silver, and gold across all areas of the car.
April - The body has undergone a great amount of metal work including repairing the longitudinals, floor pan, door skins, and suspension mounting points.
May - All of the suspension/brake components have been powder coated and plated. They were then preassembled for easy installation. The unique factory wheels have been stripped and the lip of the rims has been polished to match the factory finish.
June - The transmission housing has been vapor blasted in order to bring back the original finish. It is now ready for assembly.