The Porsche 917K driven by Steve McQueen in the iconic racing film "Le Mans" holds a special place in both automotive and cinematic history. The film, released in 1971, features McQueen as a driver participating in the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race, and the Porsche 917K is prominently featured as his race car.Key features and aspects of the Porsche 917K and its association with Steve McQueen and "Le Mans" include:1. **Porsche 917K**: The Porsche 917K is a legendary sports car built by Porsche for endurance racing. The "K" in its name stands for Kurzheck, German for "short tail," referring to its distinctive aerodynamic design.2. **Role in "Le Mans"**: In the film "Le Mans," Steve McQueen's character, Michael Delaney, drives a Gulf-liveried Porsche 917K with the iconic blue and orange livery. The car is prominently featured in racing sequences, capturing the intensity and drama of the 24-hour race.3. **Realism and Authenticity**: "Le Mans" is known for its commitment to realism and authenticity. Actual racing footage and sounds were used, and McQueen was passionate about capturing the spirit of endurance racing. The Porsche 917K played a pivotal role in portraying the excitement of the race.4. **Cinematic Legacy**: The film's racing scenes, including those featuring the Porsche 917K, have become iconic in the world of cinema. The visceral portrayal of speed, sound, and competition contributed to the film's enduring appeal among racing enthusiasts and moviegoers.5. **Gulf Livery**: The Porsche 917K's Gulf Oil livery is one of the most recognizable and celebrated liveries in motorsports history. Its bold blue and orange colors are synonymous with racing success and passion.6. **Impact on Porsche Legacy**: The association between the Porsche 917K and "Le Mans" further solidified Porsche's reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance sports cars and a dominant force in endurance racing.7. **Collector's Item**: The Gulf-liveried Porsche 917K used in "Le Mans" is considered a priceless collector's item and a symbol of automotive and cinematic history. Similar replicas and models have been created to pay tribute to the film and its impact.8. **Influence on Racing Films**: "Le Mans" and its use of authentic racing footage and sound have influenced subsequent racing films, setting a standard for capturing the intensity and excitement of motorsports on the big screen.The Porsche 917K's association with Steve McQueen and its role in "Le Mans" have elevated its status as an automotive and cinematic icon. The combination of high-performance engineering, captivating visuals, and McQueen's dedication to authenticity has left a lasting legacy in both the world of racing and film.
Measures 17 x 12.
Aluminum.