When Porsche entered into races, Porsche astonished the world with its performances. But participation in Formula One races brought mixed results. In the 1961-1962 season, Porsche participated as a constructor but produced just one win in a championship race, claimed by Dan Gurney at the 1962 French Grand Prix. In a non-championship race, one week later, Stuttgart’s Solitude repeated the success. At the end of the season, Porsche retired from F1 due to the high costs.
In 1983, Porsche returned to Formula One, supplying engines badged as TAG units for the McLaren Team. It was a success as the Porsche-powered cars won two constructor championships in 1984 and 1985 and three driver crowns in 1984, 1985 and 1986.
Less than ten years later, in 1991, Porsche returned as a engine supplier, but this time the results were disastrous: Footwork, the Porsche-powered cars, didn’t score a single point and at over half of the races it even failed to qualify. Since that year, Porsche has not participated to Formula One.
Still, lightly-modified Porsches participate in many competitions around the world, mostly in amateur classes for enthusiasts. The only professional category is the Porsche Michelin Supercup raced as a support category for European Formula One rounds.
Porsche’s history in Formula One may have been inconsistent, but its impact on motorsports remains undeniable. From its early efforts as a constructor to its later success as an engine supplier for McLaren, Porsche has always been a brand driven by innovation and performance. While Formula One wasn’t its strongest arena, Porsche has dominated endurance racing and sports car competitions, proving that its engineering is built for both speed and durability.
The Porsche 928, though never designed for racing, embodies the same commitment to advanced engineering that Porsche has applied to motorsports. With its V8 powerplant, near-perfect weight distribution, and groundbreaking transaxle design, the 928 was engineered for high-speed touring rather than track performance. However, just like Porsche’s Formula One endeavors, the 928 pushed boundaries and proved that Porsche could excel outside of its traditional rear-engine sports car formula. Whether on the track or the open road, Porsche’s engineering philosophy remains rooted in performance and innovation.
Thank you for taking the time with me to learn more about what Don Fenton, the Porsche 928 whisperer, can do for you.
Sincerely,
Don Fenton
(AKA) 928 Done Right
For more information on Porsche 928 maintenance, repair, or restoration in the greater Austin area (or beyond), please contact your premiere 928 mechanic, Don Fenton, AKA Mr. 928 Done Right – Porsche 928 repairs and restoration of Austin, because Don ensures any repairs get Done Right the first time!
📞 Call us now for a free estimate! (737) 900-8179
🌐 Visit us at www.928DoneRight.com
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