The Porsche 935 (2019): A Modern Homage to Racing Legend “Moby Dick”

The spectacular aerodynamics represent a completely new development while paying tribute to the Porsche 935/78 Le Mans race car. The distinctive wheel arch air vents on the front fairings, which also feature on the GT3 Porsche 911 GT3 R customer vehicle, increase downforce at the front axle. The rear wing is particularly impressive, measuring 1,909 millimeters in width by 400 millimeters in depth, lending crucial aerodynamic balance to the vehicle.

Many exterior details serve as tributes to victorious vehicles from Porsche’s racing history. The aerodynamically capped rims echo those of the 935/78, while the LED rear lights integrated into the rear wing endplates are adopted from the 919 Hybrid LMP1 race car. The side mirrors come from the current Le Mans-winning 911 RSR, and the exposed titanium tailpipes draw inspiration from the Porsche 908 from 1968.

Like in the GT road models of the 911, the driver changes gears via conveniently positioned shift paddles on the steering wheel. The weight distribution is typical of the 911 architecture, ensuring excellent traction and braking performance. Despite its race-focused design, the 1,380-kilogram 935 comes equipped with modern driver aids including PSM (Porsche Stability Management) with traction control and an anti-lock braking system (ABS).

A particularly useful feature for track driving is the “map switch” that allows these assistance systems to be adjusted separately or switched off completely, depending on the driving situation and driver preference. This flexibility makes the 935 accessible to drivers of varying skill levels while still offering the pure, unfiltered experience that professional racers demand.

The instrument cluster consists of a COSWORTH ICD with integrated data logger, sport Chrono watch, and boost gauge, all finished with a vintage aesthetic that pays homage to Porsche’s racing heritage. The carbon-fiber multifunction steering wheel features a pit speed limiter and quick-release coupling for easy driver ingress and egress.

Additional safety features include an air jack system with three jacks for quick pit stops, a fire extinguishing system with electronic release unit, and a lightweight lithium-ion battery mounted in the passenger footwell. Emergency cut-off switches are located both in the cockpit and outside to the left of the windscreen, ensuring safety in any situation.

The original “Moby Dick” featured radical aerodynamic innovations, including an elongated tail section designed to reduce drag on the Mulsanne Straight at Le Mans. Powered by a twin-turbocharged flat-six engine producing around 845 hp, it could reach speeds of up to 366 km/h (227 mph). Though it only competed in a handful of races, its distinctive appearance and technological advancements secured its place in motorsport history.

The 2019 935 continues this legacy through Porsche’s “Heritage Design” philosophy, which reinterprets classic design elements with modern technology. While the new 935 isn’t homologated for any specific racing series, it’s designed for club racing events and private track days, allowing enthusiasts to experience the spirit of “Moby Dick” with contemporary performance and safety standards.

The limited production run and connection to Porsche’s racing heritage have made the 2019 Porsche 935 a highly sought-after collector’s item. Market data indicates that these vehicles have maintained or increased their value since release, with examples selling at prestigious auctions for well over their original price. According to recent sales data, the average market value for a 2019 Porsche 935 now exceeds $1.4 million.

Beyond the standard configuration, Porsche offered customization options including the iconic Martini livery, allowing owners to personalize their vehicles. Each car features a numbered plaque, confirming its place in the limited production run. The combination of rarity, performance, historical significance, and the Porsche brand cachet ensures that the 2019 Porsche 935 will remain a coveted addition to any serious collector’s portfolio.

One notable example competed in the 2020 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb with American driver Jeff Zwart at the wheel, completing the challenging course in 9:43.92 – a personal best for Zwart at the time. This performance demonstrated the 935’s capabilities in one of motorsport’s most demanding venues, combining high-speed sections with technical corners at increasing altitude.

The vehicle’s track-focused design includes features like the three-way racing dampers, center-locking wheel nuts, and optimized brake cooling ducts. The front axle features six-piston aluminum monobloc racing brake calipers with anti-knock-back piston springs, while the rear uses four-piston calipers. These components, combined with the car’s relatively light weight of 1,380 kg, provide exceptional handling and stopping power.

Owners receive comprehensive documentation including a detailed owner’s manual and technical specifications. Porsche also provides access to specialized technical support for maintaining these complex vehicles. Many owners store their 935s in climate-controlled environments and work with specialized service centers that have experience with high-performance track vehicles.

Beyond maintenance, Porsche offers exclusive track events where owners can experience their vehicles in their intended environment with professional instruction. These events often include access to historic racing circuits and the opportunity to meet with the engineers and designers who created the 935, adding another dimension to the ownership experience.