During the Second World War the RAF reportedly buried a squadron of still-crated Supermarine Spitfires in Burma. These planes have never been found, and many consider them to be more myth than reality. Though numerous Spitfires exist, none remain in as-delivered condition. Finds like the lost squadron are exceedingly rare, and they’re a unique window into the past. This 964 Carrera RSR is that sort of find.
Far from a pampered show-queen, this 964 is coated in a layer of dust from more than two decades in storage. The original cosmoline protective coatings are still present. To make things even weirder, this ostensibly-pure racecar was ordered with a leather trimmed interior.
The full roll cage in this RSR is color matched to the Can Can Red leather interior. The dash fascia and seat shells are color-matched to the bodywork, making for a very striking cabin. The leather trimmed cabin is very unusual; just two of the 51 RSRs were delivered with full interiors. The rest of the run raced extensively, including an overall win at the Spa 24 Hours, Suzuka 1000km, and 24 Hours of Interlagos, plus class wins at Le Mans and Sebring, and a 1-4 position class sweep at the 24 Hours of Daytona.
Remarkably, the silver faced gauges show just 10km (6.2 miles) from new.
The 3.8l M64/04 engine is specific to the Carrera RSR and features dry-sump oiling and single plug heads. This impressive naturally aspirated engine was rated at 350 horsepower and 284 ft-lbs. of torque; the former figure is comparable to the 964 Turbo 3.6. Reviewers believed this powerplant to be underrated from the factory, and true output was believed to be closer to 375 horsepower. Car and Driver achieved a 3.7 second 0-60 sprint; quicker than a Ferrari F40.
This 964 is a very compelling find, and the contrast between the spotless cabin and underhood areas makes scrolling through the photos a fascinating experience.
More details can be found at RM Sotheby’s where this car is lot 133 at their upcoming Villa Erba sale on the shores of Lake Como.
All pictures via Tim Scott Fluid Images © 2017 Courtesy RM Sotheby’s[/caption]
