Poll - Ultimate Faceoff - Ferrari 512 M vs Porsche 917K

[Chikane_GTR]

Ferrari 512 M

Top speed 212
Acceleration 3.29 Secs
HP - 610
Lbs - 1940




Porsche 917K

Top speed 219
Acceleration 3.20 Secs
HP - 600
Lbs - 1763

 

[Sick Cylinder]

I like both Ferrari 512's and both Porsche 917's - I think SMS did an outstanding job with the DLC cars and especially the Classic Le Mans track.

To drive in the game I slightly prefer the Ferrari.

In real life both had their problems - the power of the Ferrari was inconsistent with engines varying from 630 - 560bhp - some having problems with cylinder sealing (this is mentioned in Mark Donoghue's book). The Porsche had a flexible chassis which meant great care was needed when shifting gears to avoid missed shifts and engine damage (this is covered in David Hobbs book). Porsche had a better driver roster and the 917 received more development. Both were great and iconic cars and very welcome in the game.

 

[Tool1312]

And of course Steve McQueen won Le Mans driving the 917 beating the Ferrari. ( In the film !!! )

 

[Sick Cylinder]

And of course Steve McQueen won Le Mans driving the 917 beating the Ferrari. ( In the film !!! )

Interestingly Steve McQueen was due to race the number 26 JWA Porsche 917K with Jackie Stewart as his partner in 1970, but the car was withdrawn for insurance reasons.

Steve came second in the 1970 12 hours of Sebring driving a Porsche 908/02 partnered by Peter Revson (despite Steve racing with an injured foot) - they were beaten by a Ferrari 512S. He was a much better race driver than most people realise.

 

[Tool1312]

Yeah, I watched a documentary about the making of the film. A few bad accidents went into that for real. David Piper lost part of a leg due to one.