Endurance
When Porsche restores an ex-Stuck 962 Group C
Hans-Joachim Stuck at the wheel of "his" Porsche 962 C. © Porsche AG
At Porsche, we take care of heritage. The Zuffenhausen firm dedicated a year and a half to bringing a 962 C up to date, and not just any: that of Hans-Joachim Stuck, winner on board of the ADAC Würth Supercup in 1987 and tester of the innovative PDK dual-clutch transmission.
The Group C then served as a test prototype for the aerodynamics unit in Weissach, before resting peacefully in the Historic department's warehouse. But one fine day, mechanics Armin Burger and Traugott Brecht wanted to restore its youthfulness.
They had to rebuild many parts, the stock relating to Group C being, as one can imagine, almost non-existent. “The cooperation with other Porsche departments was excellent. We found almost everything we needed within a radius of just 30 meters”, rejoices Armin Burger.
© Porsche AG
The experts then rebuilt the underbody of the 962 C, modified the arrangement of the radiators and adjusted the bodywork. The designer behind the colorful Shell livery, Rob Powell, was even called in to provide sketches from 35 years ago!
He then literally redesigned the livery using adhesive tape and stencils. “It is very important that painters can correctly plan the cutting of colors,” explains the artist. Besides, I still think the yellow and red color combination looks modern. »
Rob Powell at work. © Porsche AG
And what does the pilot think? “I am a big fan of the Porsche with PDK transmission and proud to have been able to test it in the 962 back in the day. Being able to keep my hands on the wheel when changing gears at full throttle gave me a great feeling from the start.
“The 962 C was one of the few cars I was allowed to drive alone, without teammates and with exactly the configuration I wanted. You never forget a car like that! »
Hans-Joachim Stuck and his legendary blue helmet with white stars. © Porsche AG
Finally, the best to conclude. The 962 C will be presented at numerous events in 2022 on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the C Group. Hello Le Mans Classic, is there a place left in your trays?
Medhi Casaurang
Passionate about the history of motorsport across all disciplines, I learned to read thanks to AUTOhebdo. At least that's what my parents tell everyone when they see my name inside!
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