Porsche's homologation hero

Following the FIA's rule reclassification in 1968, Porsche embarked on crafting a new iteration of the 911 T tailored for Group 3 GT-class racing. Shedding over 50kg compared to the 911 S, the 911 T laid the groundwork for Stuttgart's inaugural 911-based homologation special.

The resultant 911 T/R underwent extensive weight reduction, stripping away sound insulation and carpeting. It offered two engine options: the base Type 901/02 2-litre 911 engine or the potent twin-ignition Type 901/20 engine sourced from the 906 Carrera 6 racing car. Standard features included a limited-slip differential, lighter flywheel, reinforced clutch, and a front-right wheel well-mounted separate oil-cooler. Optional enhancements encompassed a specialised exhaust, roll bar, enlarged 100-litre fuel tank, wider Fuchs wheels, 911R paint stripes, and a Type 901 five-speed gearbox.

Between 28 to 35 911 T/R models were reportedly manufactured, many of which enjoyed successful campaigns during their era. Serving as the rare precursors to the esteemed tradition of 911 homologation specials, these vehicles have evolved into prized collector's items, revered by Porsche enthusiasts.

This particular 911 T/R boasts a storied racing history, once piloted by renowned French sports car driver Claude Ballot-Léna. It was equipped with a Type 901/02 911 2-litre engine paired with a five-speed manual gearbox featuring optional Nürburgring ratios, and outfitted with rally equipment and a footrest.

Originally cloaked in Light Ivory paint with a black interior, this 911 T/R was delivered in April 1968 through Sonauto, the French importer, to Ballot-Léna. Noteworthy for his Le Mans prowess, Ballot-Léna favored Porsches throughout his career, including models like the 908/2 Spyder, 911 Carrera RSR, and the 956. The 911 T/R marked his initiation into the Porsche fold, racing under the Ecurie Sonauto banner alongside another 911 acquired by Sonauto.

Debuting in late April 1968 at the Coupes de Vitesse race at Montlhéry, the 911 T/R secured a commendable 4th place with Ballot-Léna at the helm. Subsequently, it participated in the Rallye Sud-Ouest in Aquitaine.

After the season’s conclusion the 911 was sold to Parisian resident Pierre Mauroy, and he teamed up with Rene Mazzia at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June 1969. This was notably the very last Le Mans to begin with the famous footrace to waiting racecars, a tradition that was cancelled in the name of safety. Entered as race #63, the T/R qualified for 44th-place on the starting grid, and after one hour it had dramatically risen nine positions to 35th place. The team continued to gradually ascend the field, climbing as high as 21st-place after the 14th hour. But a gearbox failure during the 16th hour spelled the end of the race for the 911, which by then had covered 174 laps. The T/R was officially classified as 22nd place, a respectable conclusion considering that only 14 cars actually completed the race.

This 1968 Porsche 911 T/R will feature as part of RM Sotheby’s Miami sale held between 1st-2nd March 2024. Photo © RM Sotheby's.