The Porsche 904 Carrera GTS, introduced in 1963, transformed sports car design with its innovative mid-engine configuration and fiberglass body. This vehicle not only dominated the racetrack but also set new benchmarks in automotive engineering. At Sierra Madre Collection, we offer everything you need to keep your Porsche 904 in pristine condition.

Our extensive inventory includes genuine replacement parts, high quality restoration components, and expert advice tailored specifically for this iconic model. Whether you're undertaking a full restoration or simply maintaining your 904 for daily driving or exhibitions, we provide the resources and support to ensure your car remains true to its original specifications.

Key takeaways

• At Sierra Madre Collection, we supply top tier Porsche parts and accessories, dedicated to preserving exceptional performance and craftsmanship in every component.

• The 904 achieved notable racing victories, including wins at the 1964 Targa Florio and class wins at Le Mans, cementing its reputation as a formidable competitor.

• With only 108 units produced, the Porsche 904’s limited run and innovative features have established it as a highly sought after collectible, influencing future Porsche models.

The birth of the Porsche 904

The early sixties were a transformative period for Porsche, with the company setting its sights on creating a customer-friendly sports car that complied with FIA Group 3 homologation standards. The Porsche 904, designed by the young and visionary Ferdinand Alexander Porsche at the tender age of 28, was the result of this ambitious endeavor.

Porsche realized that to stand out in the competitive world of sports car racing, they needed to innovate. The 904 was the first Porsche to feature a closed-top mid-engine layout, a significant departure from previous models. This design choice was heavily influenced by the 718 and marked a new era for the brand.

The public got its first glimpse of the Porsche 904 in November 1963 at the Solitude racetrack, where the initial prototypes were revealed. The car was developed and built by the Porsche factory team, highlighting the factory's direct involvement in its creation. This moment was pivotal, showcasing Porsche’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and performance. The mid-engine layout not only improved weight distribution but also enhanced handling, setting the stage for its future racing success.

Painted silver and boasting unpainted aluminum bodies, the Porsche 904 Carrera GTS stood out among many German race cars and various cars of its time, having purchased sold as one of the most innovative stock designs. The use of this innovative design signaled Porsche’s intent to sell dominate both the racetrack and the streets, forever cementing its place in automotive history. The Porsche 904 was raced in various competitions soon after its debut.

Design and engineering

The design and engineering of the Porsche 904 were nothing short of revolutionary. Its chassis utilized a ladder frame design, a first for Porsche, aimed at enhancing rigidity while reducing overall weight. The 904 featured a wheelbase of 2,300 mm, which contributed to its agile handling and precise cornering performance. This innovative approach set the 904 apart from its contemporaries and laid the groundwork for its exceptional performance.

The body of the Porsche 904 was crafted from a fiberglass body reinforced plastic, a material choice that significantly contributed to its low weight. Key aspects of its construction include:

• The fiberglass body was constructed by the Heinkel Aircraft Company in Germany.

• A technique was used that sprayed chopped fiberglass into molds, which low weight gave added extra rigidity and strength.

This all new complex design was a testament to Porsche’s commitment to innovation and quality in this review.

Underneath its sleek exterior, the Porsche 904 featured a mid-engine layout, which played a crucial role in its handling and balance. The rear suspension was designed with twin diagonal arms, enhancing stability during high-speed maneuvers. The 904 was equipped with outboard Porsche-ATE disc brakes on all four wheels, providing exceptional stopping power and durability essential for racing conditions. This combination of advanced engineering and meticulous design made the 904 a formidable contender on the racetrack.

The design elements of the Porsche 904 were not just about aesthetics; they were about performance and security. Coupled with its lightweight construction, the aerodynamic shape established a new standard for automotive design. These innovations were not only critical for racing but also influenced the future direction of Porsche’s production models.

Performance and specifications

When it came to performance, the Porsche 904 was nothing short of extraordinary. At the heart of this machine was a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produced around 180 horsepower, showcasing the advanced engineering capabilities of Porsche. This engine, paired with a mid-engine configuration, allowed for superior weight distribution and handling.

The Porsche 904’s key performance and design features include:

• Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in less than six seconds, showcasing its impressive power-to-weight ratio

• A top speed of approximately 160 mph, making it a formidable opponent on the racetrack

• An aerodynamic design characterized by a low profile and teardrop shape, which significantly improved performance by reducing drag to accelerate.

However, the Type 771 engine used in some 904 models had a disturbing habit of causing flywheel explosions, which affected reliability in certain racing scenarios.

The Porsche 904 wasn’t just a race car; it was also available as a street-legal version, making it a desirable customer car. This street-legal version debuted and retained much of the performance-oriented features of the race car, allowing enthusiasts to experience the thrill of driving a high-performance vehicle on public roads. The combination of quality engineering and customer-focused design made the 904 a standout model in Porsche’s lineup.

The 904’s performance was further enhanced by its innovative design features, such as the hemispherical combustion chambers, a flat four, and a drag coefficient of 0.34, which contributed to its aerodynamic efficiency. These specifications were not just numbers they were a reflection of Porsche’s dedication to creating a car that could excel both on and off the track.

Racing achievements

The racing achievements of the Porsche 904 are a testament to its exceptional design and engineering. In the 1964 Targa Florio, the 904 secured first and second places in the prototype class, showcasing its prowess in sports car racing. This victory was a significant milestone, proving that the 904 could compete with the best in the world. The 1964 Le Mans race, held in June 1964, was another highlight in the Porsche 904’s racing career. The car achieved a class wins and finished 7th overall, further solidifying its reputation in international racing events.

The following year, in 1965, the Porsche 904 recorded its best overall victory at Le Mans, securing 4th place while winning the 2-liter prototype class. The success of the Porsche 904 in various international racing events emphasized Porsche’s focus on reliability and handling over raw power. This approach paid off, as the 904 continued to achieve significant results in other prestigious events.

At the 1964 Nürburgring 1000 km race, eight Porsche 904s finished in the top twelve places, further proving the car’s capabilities. Some Porsche 904s had to retire from races due to accidents, and repairs or rebuilds were sometimes necessary following such incidents. These racing achievements were not just about winning races; they were about establishing Porsche as a leader in sports car racing.

The 904’s low weight, exceptional handling, and reliability made it a favorite among drivers and teams. Its success on the track translated into a lasting legacy that continues to inspire many German race cars today.

Production and variants

The producing of the Porsche 904 was driven by the need to satisfy homologation rules, which required a minimum production to meet the one hundred car requirement. Key points about its production include:

• Porsche initially aimed to produce 200 units.

• Ultimately, only 108 units were completed.

• This limited production run has made the 904 a rare and highly sought-after collectible.

Among the 108 units produced, various prototypes were created to test and refine the design. The first three prototypes, known by their chassis numbers 904-002, 003, and 004, played a crucial role in the development of the final production model. These prototypes were instrumental in ensuring that the 904 met the high standards of performance and reliability that Porsche is known for.

The production of the Porsche 904 was not just about meeting a car requirement; it was about creating a vehicle that could compete at the highest levels of racing while still being accessible to customers. This dual focus on racing and customer satisfaction set the 904 apart from its competitors and cemented its place in automotive history.

Restoration and maintenance

Restoring and maintaining a Porsche 904 is a labor of love that demands both expertise and passion. As with many German race cars from the era, the 904’s unique construction and racing pedigree make it a prized possession among collectors and enthusiasts. Porsche realized early on that preserving the original specifications of the 904 was essential, and today, restoration projects focus on maintaining the car’s authenticity and quality.

One of the most distinctive features of the 904 is its lightweight fiberglass body, which provides extra rigidity while keeping the car’s weight to a minimum. This low weight was a key factor in the 904’s racing success and remains a focal point for restorers aiming to recapture the car’s original performance. Unlike the unpainted aluminum bodies seen on some other German race cars, the 904 was typically painted silver, proudly displaying the German national racing color and adding to its visual appeal.

The first Porsche 904s were delivered as street-legal versions, debuting in 1964, and these models are especially coveted today. Their combination of racing heritage and road-going capability makes them stand out in any collection. The homologation rules of the time required Porsche to produce more cars than initially planned, leading to a variety of models and restoration opportunities. Meeting the one hundred car requirement was no small feat, and Porsche focused on producing high-quality cars that would satisfy both the FIA and discerning customers.

A key area of attention during restoration is the 904’s suspension system. The use of coil springs was a significant innovation, contributing to the car’s handling and ride quality. Restorers often pay special attention to this feature, ensuring that the car’s dynamic character is preserved. The Porsche 904 Carrera GTS, with its impressive class wins and top speed of 160 mph, remains one of the most iconic models to restore and maintain. Each restoration is a tribute to the car’s legacy in sports car racing and a celebration of Porsche’s commitment to excellence.

Legacy and impact

The legacy of the Porsche 904 extends far beyond its production years:

• It was the first Porsche to incorporate a fiberglass body in its production.

• This method influenced future Porsche models.

• The innovation in lightweight construction paved the way for the development of more advanced sports prototype cars.

The Porsche 904’s impact on the automotive world is undeniable. Its success on the racetrack motivated Porsche to continue manufacturing sports prototype cars, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in automotive design and engineering. The 904’s combination of performance, design, and engineering excellence has made it a cornerstone of Porsche’s heritage.

Today, the Porsche 904 is considered a highly desirable collectible, with its historical significance and unique design making it a prized possession for collectors. Its legacy lives on, inspiring future generations of automotive enthusiasts and serving as a reminder of Porsche’s commitment to innovation and excellence. This remarkable collection continues to captivate car lovers around the world.

Summary

In summary, the Porsche 904 is a remarkable example of automotive innovation and excellence. From its birth in the early sixties to its groundbreaking design and engineering, the 904 set new standards for performance and reliability. Its impressive racing achievements further solidified its reputation as a formidable contender on the racetrack.

The limited production and various prototypes of the Porsche 904 have made it a rare and highly sought-after collectible. Its legacy and impact on the automotive world are undeniable, influencing future Porsche models and inspiring generations of enthusiasts. The Porsche 904 is not just a car it is a symbol of Porsche’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of sports car racing.

Frequently asked questions

What was the significance of the Porsche 904's mid-engine layout?

The Porsche 904's mid-engine layout significantly enhanced weight distribution and handling, representing a crucial evolution in sports car design. This layout contributed to improved performance and driving dynamics, distinguishing it from earlier models.

How did the Porsche 904 perform in the 1964 Targa Florio?

The Porsche 904 excelled at the 1964 Targa Florio, achieving first and second places in the prototype class, demonstrating its exceptional performance in sports car racing.

Why is the Porsche 904 considered a highly desirable collectible?

The Porsche 904's historical significance, unique design, and limited production run contribute to its status as a highly desirable collectible. Collectors prize it for these distinctive attributes.