The iconic Porsche 917K, one of the stars of the 1971 film Le Mans and once owned by Steve McQueen, is set to capture the spotlight again as it heads to auction in early 2025. This particular car, chassis 917-022, is no ordinary race car—it’s the “hero car” from the cult classic movie, featuring prominently in footage that has thrilled motorsport fans for decades. With its rich history and celebrity ownership, the 917K is expected to fetch an astronomical sum, potentially exceeding $20 million.
Originally built in 1969 for homologation purposes, the car was later upgraded to 917K specifications for the 1970 racing season. Despite its potential, the car never saw competition on the track that year. Instead, it was sold to McQueen’s Solar Productions for use in Le Mans, where it was finished in the iconic Gulf livery, instantly becoming a legend on and off the screen.
After filming, McQueen parted ways with the car, selling it to renowned German driver Reinhold Joest. Joest raced the 917K during the 1971 endurance season, including at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where unfortunately, he failed to finish. The car also competed at other notable tracks such as Brands Hatch, Monza, Spa, and Nurburgring.
Over the years, the 917K changed hands among several notable figures, including racing legend Brian Redman and 1970 Le Mans winner Richard Attwood, before being purchased by comedian and Porsche aficionado Jerry Seinfeld in 2002. While Mecum Auctions has not confirmed if Seinfeld is the current owner, the car’s provenance is undeniable.
Despite its age, the Porsche 917K appears to be in immaculate condition, likely still sporting its original flat-12 engine and manual gearbox. Given the historical significance, cinematic fame, and the fact that it was once owned by McQueen, this auction is expected to break records. Seven years ago, a similar 917K used in Le Mans sold for $14 million. With this car’s added prestige, the final price could easily surpass $20 million, making it one of the most expensive cars ever sold at auction.
Collectors and racing enthusiasts alike will be watching closely when this piece of motorsport history goes under the hammer at Mecum’s Kissimmee auction in January 2025. Will it set a new benchmark in the world of classic car auctions? Only time will tell.
