The 1987 Porsche 959 Komfort arrived as a shock to the automotive establishment, serving as a laboratory on wheels that effectively predicted the future of the modern supercar. This unrestored example is a time capsule of that ambitious era, showing a remarkably low 3,521 miles on the odometer. As one of only 292 units ever produced, it remains one of the most significant models in the history of the Zuffenhausen brand. Its appearance at the Indy 2026 auction provides a rare opportunity for elite collectors to acquire a vehicle that combined sequential turbocharging and advanced all-wheel drive long before such features became industry standards.
Graphite Metallic Sophistication and Magnesium Wheels
The exterior of this 1987 Porsche 959 Komfort is finished in Graphite Metallic, a subtle and sophisticated hue that highlights the car’s unique Kevlar and fiberglass-reinforced epoxy bodywork. The silhouette was dictated by aerodynamics, featuring a distinctive integrated rear wing and a smooth underbody to maintain stability at speeds that few of its contemporaries could dream of reaching. It retains its special 17-inch lightweight magnesium wheels, which were advanced for their time by featuring hollow spokes to reduce unsprung weight. Every curve of the body serves a functional purpose, ensuring optimal cooling for the complex mechanical systems housed within.
Gray Sport Seating and Eighties Luxury Appointments
Inside, the cabin is upholstered in Gray leather, offering a focused yet comfortable environment consistent with the Komfort designation. The interior features heated power sport seats designed to hold occupants firmly during high-speed maneuvers while providing the refinement expected of a flagship Porsche. Technology from the late eighties is well-represented, including power windows and a factory alarm system. The layout remains remarkably ergonomic, with the classic five-gauge cluster providing essential data to the driver. This unrestored interior perfectly mirrors the low-mileage status of the vehicle, showing a level of preservation rarely seen in 959 examples.
Sequential Twin-Turbocharged Flat-Six and 6-Speed Manual
Performance is driven by the legendary twin-turbocharged 2.8L flat 6-cylinder engine, which utilized water-cooled cylinder heads and air-cooled cylinders derived from Porsche’s racing programs. This sophisticated powerplant is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission that includes a specialized “Gelände” gear for low-speed traction scenarios. The sophisticated all-wheel-drive system was a pioneer in torque distribution, allowing the 959 to find grip where its rear-wheel-drive rivals would struggle. This mechanical setup allowed the car to dominate both the road and the grueling Paris-Dakar rally, cementing its status as the most versatile high-performance machine of its decade.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Twin-Turbocharged 2.8L Flat-6 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
| Wheels | 17-inch Lightweight Magnesium |
| Odometer | 3,521 Miles |
| Production Volume | 1 of 292 Units |
Market Scarcity and the Pinnacle of Porsche Collecting
In the contemporary collector market, the 1987 Porsche 959 Komfort is frequently benchmarked against its primary rival, the Ferrari F40. While the Italian car focused on raw, analog sensations, the 959 offered a glimpse into a high-tech future, making it the preferred choice for enthusiasts who value engineering complexity. Low-mileage, unrestored examples are the most sought-after variants, as they represent the car exactly as it left the factory. Given its rarity and its role as the ancestor to the modern 911 Turbo and 918 Spyder, this 959 stands as a blue-chip investment that continues to command respect on the world stage.
A Masterpiece of Automotive Technological Heritage
This 1987 Porsche 959 Komfort is more than just a car; it is a monument to what happens when engineers are given total freedom to redefine the limits of performance. With its exceptionally low mileage and unrestored condition, it offers a pure connection to Porsche’s most innovative period. It remains a definitive statement of power, luxury, and technical prowess. For those seeking the absolute best of the 1980s supercar era, this Graphite Metallic icon represents the final word in automotive excellence.
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Source: mecum.com
