Kremer 917 replica - somebody must know

[steveW]

Just before the advent of Group C sportscar racing and the Porsche 956, the Kremer brothers built a 917 replica for the world championship series.

This car, driven by Bob wollek and Henri Pescarolo led the 1000km race at Brands Hatch in September 1981 and caused quite a sensation. I think this was its only international appearance.

Can anybody shed any light on the car - what engine, what became of it etc? As I recall, it did have a fairly large air intake in the nose.

Its a pretty unique story isn't it? Basing a design on a 12 year-old defunct car and being able to lead a world championship race.

[GIBSON]

Steve, I remember the car but I thought it was raced at Le Mans as well in that year. Can't remember what motor it used, 5.4L turbo? I don't remember it winning any races but it did look good. Maybe somebody has a photo. I'll look through my stuff.

[Early_S_Man]

It was probably a variant of the 936 design ... i.e., a 917 chassis with 935 drivetrain ... that was a bit early for a 956/962 connection. Probably played a role in their development 'inspiration,' though!

[ErVikingo]

For more info on this car, check out:

http://www.maisonblanche.co.uk/917k81.html

What a beauty:

[steveW]

ErVikingo,

Thanks a ton for the link. I never thought I'd find out so much about the car so quickly!

It really is a sort of fairytale isn't it?

Cheers

[URY914]

Also try www.mulsannescorner.com

It is a big site with alot of pictures. It maybe in there.

[Doug E]

Wow! What a link and story - thanks Juan.