11 Historic Race Cars and Their Influence on Car Collecting

Race cars have always captured the imagination of car enthusiasts around the world. Many of these legendary vehicles not only made history on the track but also changed the way people look at car collecting. Some race cars are known for their speed, while others are famous for their design and engineering. Over the years, they have become sought-after treasures among collectors. Let us explore some of the most iconic race cars that left a lasting legacy.

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1978 Porsche 911 SC Safari

The 1978 Porsche 911 SC Safari was created as a special off-road version of the iconic Porsche 911. It became legendary due to its success in off-road racing, including the challenging East African Safari Rally. Its best feature is its robust suspension system and impressive handling on rough terrains. The market value for a well-maintained Porsche 911 SC Safari is estimated to range between $100,000 and $150,000 today.

This model was specifically modified to take on the toughest rally stages. It proved to be a game-changer by combining Porsche’s signature performance with off-road capability. Over the years, it has become a collector’s dream, with many enthusiasts seeking to own one due to its rarity and historical significance. The 911 SC Safari stands as a reminder of Porsche’s versatility and racing heritage.

1960 Ford GT40

Created in the 1960s, the Ford GT40 became a symbol of automotive excellence after dominating the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It is legendary for breaking Ferrari’s stronghold at Le Mans, winning four consecutive times from 1966 to 1969. The best feature of the GT40 is its powerful V8 engine, paired with its sleek, aerodynamic design. Today, its value can range from $3 million to $5 million, depending on the model and condition.

The GT40 was developed as a response to Ford’s desire to buy Ferrari and compete at the highest level. It is still one of the most iconic race cars ever produced, admired for both its racing pedigree and historical significance. With its mix of engineering brilliance and racing victories, the GT40 is a true collector’s item. Its value continues to appreciate, as more enthusiasts seek this piece of racing history.

1977 Lotus 79

Introduced in 1977, the Lotus 79 is one of the most significant cars in Formula 1 history. It is legendary for its groundbreaking aerodynamics, specifically the ground effect, which allowed it to have superior grip on the track. The best feature of the Lotus 79 is its innovative underbody design, which created a ground effect that greatly increased downforce. The current market value is estimated to be between $1.5 million and $2 million, depending on its condition and race history.

The Lotus 79 revolutionized F1 racing by changing how cars interacted with the track. It helped the team achieve tremendous success, securing both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships in 1978. This car’s legacy as a pioneer of aerodynamics makes it a highly sought-after collector’s piece. Its influence on race car design can still be seen in modern Formula 1 cars.

1969 Porsche 917

The Porsche 917, first produced in 1969, is one of the most iconic race cars ever built. It became legendary after winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1970 and 1971, cementing its place in racing history. Its best feature is its advanced lightweight design combined with its powerful 4.5-liter V12 engine, making it extremely fast and agile. The value of a Porsche 917 today can exceed $15 million, depending on the model and its race history.

Known for its stunning speed and unique appearance, the 917 changed the world of motorsport. It was one of the first cars to fully utilize aerodynamics for optimal performance. Its impact on endurance racing was profound, influencing future generations of race cars. As a result, it remains one of the most valuable and sought-after race cars in the world.

1991 Mazda 787B

The Mazda 787B, introduced in 1991, is best known for its groundbreaking victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1991, making it the first and only Japanese car to win the event. Its legendary status comes from its unique rotary engine, which was a first in Le Mans history. The best feature of the 787B is its 4-rotor Wankel engine, which provided incredible speed and a distinctive sound. The market value for a well-maintained Mazda 787B is estimated to be around $2 million to $3 million.

The car’s victory at Le Mans remains one of the most iconic moments in motorsport history. Its rotary engine, which was unconventional in endurance racing, made the 787B a standout. The car is still revered for its engineering and the achievement it represented for Mazda. Collectors and enthusiasts continue to treasure the 787B for its historical significance and rarity.

1984 Audi Sport Quattro

Introduced in 1984, the Audi Sport Quattro became legendary for its success in Group B rally racing. It is known for its powerful 2.1-liter 5-cylinder turbocharged engine, which provided both speed and handling precision. The best feature of the Audi Sport Quattro is its lightweight body combined with the revolutionary all-wheel-drive system. The current market value of the Audi Sport Quattro can range between $200,000 and $500,000, depending on the model and condition.

The Audi Sport Quattro helped Audi secure numerous rally victories and transformed rally racing with its advanced engineering. Its short wheelbase and aggressive styling made it a standout among rally cars of its time. It is highly coveted by collectors due to its racing history and innovative design. The Audi Sport Quattro remains a symbol of Audi’s commitment to motorsport excellence.

1973 Lancia Stratos HF

The Lancia Stratos HF, produced in 1973, is one of the most iconic rally cars in history. It became legendary due to its dominance in the World Rally Championship during the 1970s, where it won multiple titles. The best feature of the Stratos HF is its mid-mounted V6 engine, which delivered incredible performance on tight and winding rally stages. Today, the Lancia Stratos HF is valued at around $500,000 to $1 million, depending on its condition.

The Stratos was revolutionary for its design, being one of the first cars built specifically for rally racing. Its small, lightweight structure and powerful engine made it an unstoppable force on the rally circuit. The car’s success in motorsport and its distinctive look have made it a sought-after collector’s item. It remains one of the most beloved cars in the history of rally racing.

1976 Tyrrell P34

The Tyrrell P34, introduced in 1976, is legendary for its unique six-wheeled design, which gave it a distinct advantage in aerodynamics and handling. It became famous for challenging conventional F1 car design and capturing the imagination of fans and engineers alike. The best feature of the P34 is its six front wheels, which provided better tire contact and increased downforce. The Tyrrell P34 is valued at around $2 million to $3 million, depending on its race history and condition.

The P34 made its mark in Formula 1 history by being the only car with six wheels to compete in the sport. It achieved great success, including a win at the 1976 Swedish Grand Prix. The car’s innovative approach to racing car design continues to fascinate collectors and engineers. Its status as a one-of-a-kind vehicle makes it an invaluable part of motorsport history.

2012 DeltaWing

The DeltaWing, introduced in 2012, is legendary for its radical design and revolutionary approach to race car engineering. Known for its narrow front track and wide rear section, it offered a unique solution to the challenges of aerodynamics and efficiency. The best feature of the DeltaWing is its innovative shape, which reduced drag and weight, offering exceptional fuel efficiency and speed. The car’s market value is estimated at around $1 million to $1.5 million, depending on its racing history and condition.

The DeltaWing made waves in endurance racing, particularly at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where it proved its ability to compete with traditional designs. Its unconventional design and eco-friendly performance created a buzz in the racing world. Though it did not achieve widespread success, the DeltaWing remains a symbol of forward-thinking design. Collectors value it for its bold approach to engineering and its impact on race car development.

1992 Williams FW14B

The Williams FW14B, introduced in 1992, is one of the most successful Formula 1 cars ever built. It became legendary for its technological innovations, including an active suspension system that allowed it to maintain superior control over uneven surfaces. The best feature of the FW14B is its advanced electronic systems, which included active suspension, power steering, and traction control. The current market value is estimated to be around $5 million to $8 million, depending on the condition and race history.

The FW14B dominated the 1992 F1 season, with Nigel Mansell securing the World Championship. Its cutting-edge technology made it a favorite among engineers and fans alike. This car is still regarded as one of the most technologically advanced cars in the history of Formula 1. Collectors seek the FW14B not only for its racing success but also for the engineering marvel it represented.

2000 Subaru Impreza S6 WRC

The 2000 Subaru Impreza S6 WRC is legendary for its success in the World Rally Championship, particularly for the 2000 season, when it secured both the Drivers’ and Manufacturers’ Championships. Its best feature is its incredible handling, paired with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that provided raw power and agility on tight rally stages. The market value of the Impreza S6 WRC is estimated at around $150,000 to $250,000, depending on its condition and race history.

This rally car became iconic during its time with Subaru, especially with legendary driver Colin McRae at the wheel. The Subaru Impreza S6 WRC was instrumental in securing Subaru’s reputation as a top rally brand. Its distinctive blue and yellow livery is instantly recognizable to rally fans. The S6 WRC remains a sought-after collector’s item due to its racing success and cultural significance.

The impact of these legendary race cars goes beyond their racing victories and designs. They represent the spirit of automotive progress and the pursuit of perfection.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.