One-Off Wonder: The Unique 1987 Porsche 959 ‘Speedster’ Conversion

One-Off Wonder: The Unique 1987 Porsche 959 ‘Speedster’ Conversion

Full details & bid : rmsothebys.com

A Singular Creation: This remarkable Porsche 959 is not just any supercar; it is a one-of-a-kind ‘Speedster’ conversion, a bespoke creation brought to life by the skilled hands of master craftsman Karl-Heinz Feustel in 1989. What began as a 1987 Porsche 959 ‘Komfort’ in Silver Metallic, delivered new to the accomplished racing driver Jürgen Lässig – a victor at the 24 Hours of Daytona and a Le Mans runner-up – underwent a profound transformation after an autobahn incident in 1988. Lässig subsequently sold the car to Feustel, a Porsche racer with a passion for pushing automotive boundaries.

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The Birth of a ‘Speedster’: Operating a specialized workshop with a small team near Cologne, Feustel embarked on an ambitious project: to create a 959 unlike any other. The ‘Speedster’ conversion was no quick undertaking, demanding over 4,000 hours of meticulous labor. A comprehensive article in Sports Car International Magazine in February 1990 lauded the creation, emphasizing the “true German craftsmanship” and the deep passion for fine automobiles that fueled the project. The focus was unwavering on achieving the highest levels of fit and finish, ensuring that every modification appeared as refined as if it were a factory design.

Design and Features: The result of Feustel’s dedication is a stunning 959 ‘Speedster’ finished in a glossy Grand Prix White paintwork, complemented by a striking blue leather interior. Recognizing the desire for versatility, Feustel equipped the car with both an electrically operated blue soft-top roof and a matching-color removable hardtop, providing options for open-air enjoyment or closed-cabin comfort.

Public Debut and Ownership: This unique 959 ‘Speedster’ made its debut on the Auto Becker stand at the prestigious 1989 Frankfurt International Motor Show in September, followed by an appearance at the Essen Motor Show in December. At the time, Feustel reportedly sought around $1,200,000 for his masterpiece, a significant sum that reflected its exclusivity and the extensive work involved. Following its exhibition, the ‘Speedster’ was reportedly sold to a German collector, Dr Berg Klaus, who is listed in the replacement service book. Cherished by subsequent owners, the consignor acquired this extraordinary vehicle in 2008 and has maintained it as part of their esteemed collection.

Preservation and Accompaniments: Today, this 1987 Porsche 959 ‘Speedster’ presents wonderfully, still retaining its Grand Prix White paint and the vibrant blue leather interior. It is accompanied by a comprehensive set of accessories, including the matching-color hardtop in a transport case, a tonneau top for open-top driving, an interchangeable ‘Speedster’ windscreen, spare door mirrors, and the original owner’s guides. Adding to its provenance, the car benefitted from a service performed by Porsche specialist ADR Motorsport on March 12, 2025.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity: The chance to acquire this 1987 Porsche 959 ‘Speedster’ is an exceptional one. As the sole example of its kind in the world, it offers its next custodian the unparalleled opportunity to own a truly unique piece of automotive history, guaranteed to stand out in any collection.

Engine and Performance: While the specific performance modifications undertaken during the ‘Speedster’ conversion are not detailed, the original Porsche 959 ‘Komfort’ was a technological tour-de-force. It featured a sophisticated twin-turbocharged 2.85-liter flat-six engine, producing around 450 horsepower and 370 lb-ft of torque. This power, coupled with an advanced all-wheel-drive system, anti-lock brakes, and adjustable suspension, made the 959 one of the fastest and most technologically advanced cars of its era. Given Feustel’s passion for performance, it is plausible that the engine and drivetrain may have also received some enhancements during the conversion process, though specific details are not provided.

Summary:

  • Unique one-off ‘Speedster’ conversion by Karl-Heinz Feustel
  • Originally a 1987 Porsche 959 ‘Komfort’
  • Formerly owned by racing driver Jürgen Lässig
  • Displayed at the 1989 Frankfurt and Essen Motor Shows
  • Grand Prix White with blue leather interior and soft-top
  • Includes matching hardtop, tonneau top, spare windscreen and mirrors
  • Recent service by Porsche specialist ADR Motorsport

Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle.

AI Assistance: Gemini

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