Though not quite shaped like a Coca-Cola bottle, this 962 has the right curvature and color to get anyone’s attention.
Devotees of IMSA GTP: get your checkbooks open. Bruce Canepa has recently announced the sale of a classic 962—one which helped pave the way for the model in mid-eighties American road racing.
As the second 962 sold to privateers, 962-102 brings plenty of history along with it. Formerly raced by Bob Akin and Hans Stuck Jr., in their hands this two beauty to pole position and track record at the 1985 12 Hours of Sebring, as well as an admirable 4th overall at the 1985 24 Hours of Daytona.
After its racing career finished in 1985, Roger Penske toured it as a show car. However, for Penske’s purposes, he wrapped it in Miller livery, replacing one beverage sponsor for another. When Penske’s focus shifted to IndyCar, 962-102 sat under a tarp in a climate-controlled garage until 2005, when its formal restoration began.
With its greatest finish coming at the 1985 24 Hours of Daytona, the car cemented itself as an iconic member of IMSA GTP.
Between Jim Torres, Gunnar Racing, and its most recent owner, the Coca-Cola liveried car has been a centerpiece at Rennsport Reunion over the last decade. In recent years, it’s benefited from the fastidious care of the skilled folks at Canepa.
Maintained regularly and supported by Canepa during vintage racing for more than half a decade, this Porsche 962 is an excellent addition to any motorsport collection. Driven by motorsport champions, recognized worldwide and restored to drive and impress, this 1984 Porsche 962-102 represents a special time for Porsche in their motorsport history.
RACING HISTORY
1984
May 20th – 500KM Charlotte – 44th
May 28th – 1 Hour Lime Rock – 12th
July 8th – 6 Hour Watkins Glen – 15th
July 29th – 3 Hour Portland – 11th
August 26th – 500 mile Road America – 6th
September 9th – 500KM Pocono – 6th
September 16th – 500KM Michigan – 30th
September 30th – 500KM Watkins Glen – 18th
November 25th – 3 Hour Daytona Finale – 51st
1985
February 3rd – 24 Hours of Daytona – 4th
February 24th – 3 Hour Miami – 18th
March 23rd – 12 Hour Sebring – 53rd
April 14th – 500KM Road Atlanta – 17th
April 28th – 600KM Riverside – 4th
May 19th – 500KM Charlotte
A striking shade of red and a seat once occupied by champions makes this 962 special.
View Comments (1)
I believe the Coca-Cola liveried 962 was initially purchased and owned by Mike Valentine, founder of Valentine Research and well known radar detector geek (nee the Valentine 1). I would not be surprised to learn Mike is one of the auction bidders.