Jerry Seinfeld Selling His Iconic 1969 Porsche 917K Driven by Steve McQueen

Oh my, Mecum Auctions’ upcoming event in Kissimmee, Florida on January 18 is going to be packed with exceptional cars. In addition to several rare Ferraris and Chevrolets, plus the Union Jack-clad “Shaguar” featured in the three Austin Powers movies, two amazing Porsches are sure to grab everybody’s attention.

One is the very first 910 built by the German automaker and driven by three-time F1 world champion Niki Lauda, but if you don’t mind, we’ll focus on this iconic 1969 917K in Blue and Orange Gulf Oil No. 20 livery (chassis no. 917-022), which happens to be one of the most recognizable race cars of all time.

Famous comedian Jerry Seinfeld is the one putting it up for sale after originally acquiring the car in 2001. There were five other owners before him, starting with legendary actor Steve McQueen, who bought the car new in 1970 directly from the Porsche factory and then drove it extensively in the filming of the 1971 movie “Le Mans.”

Photo: Mecum Auctions

The 917-022 was specially prepared and altered for film production in many ways, including the addition of camera mounts and brackets. In fact, the original camera mounting locations are still intact. The car took part in various races in the 30 years that followed, including with Richard Attwood behind the wheel. The Le Mans-winning driver had it refinished in a red and white livery resembling his 1970 917K in which he secured Porsche’s first overall victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. However, in late 1999, Attwood decided to offer the car for sale and returned it to the Blue and Orange Gulf Oil livery.

Since joining Jerry Seinfeld's impressive collection, 917-022 has become a prominent fixture at prestigious automotive events, including the Monterey Historic Automobile Races, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in 2009 and again in 2021, as well as the Porsche Rennsport Reunion V in 2015.

Photo: Mecum Auctions

Today, the car is more breathtaking than ever thanks to a comprehensive overhaul performed this past summer by Cavaglieri Restorations in Van Nuys, California. The primary goal was to return it to its original screen-used specifications while revitalizing its mechanical components including the 4.5-litre V12, four-speed manual transmission, brakes and suspension.

Given its success on the track and the big screen, plus its illustrious owners, this 1969 Porsche 917K is likely to sell for a fortune. While Mecum Auctions provides no estimated value, $20 million USD would be a good guess based on similar cars that were sold for less money in recent years.

Photo: Mecum Auctions
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