1972 Porsche 911 2.5 ST
1972 Porsche 911 2.5 ST
Brand
Porsche
Year
1972
Country
Germany
Generation
Porsche 911 I (Urmodell)
1972 Porsche 911 2.5 ST
Brand
Porsche
Year
1972
Country
Germany
Generation
Porsche 911 I (Urmodell)
About this car
Discover the history
The 1972 Porsche 911 2.5 ST was one of Porsche’s most significant racing variants of the iconic 911, created during a time when the FIA’s evolving regulations allowed manufacturers more flexibility in modifying their cars for competitive racing. The 911 ST was developed specifically for Group 4 competition, where it was intended to compete in various endurance races, including the famed 24 Hours of Le Mans. Only 24 of these cars were produced by Porsche’s customer sports department, making it a rare and highly sought-after model today.
The 911 ST began its life as a standard Porsche 911S 2.4 before being transformed into the 2.5-liter ST through a combination of weight reduction and performance modifications. Key to its development was the broader track width that was allowed by new FIA regulations, which Porsche used to its advantage by widening the wheel arches to accommodate larger wheels and tires. To reduce weight, the 911 ST featured thinner steel for its body panels, and lightweight materials such as Plexiglas were used for the side and rear windows. The result was a stripped-down racing machine that was significantly lighter than the production 911.
In terms of its technical specifications, the 2.5-liter engine produced around 270 horsepower, a significant upgrade from the standard 911S. This increase in power was supported by upgraded brakes, a stiffened suspension, and aerodynamic tweaks that made the 911 ST a formidable competitor on the track. The car was also fitted with a roll cage and Recaro racing seats for driver safety, underscoring its racing intent.
The racing pedigree of the 911 ST 2.5 is legendary. The car made its mark in numerous endurance races during the early 1970s. Notably, it competed in the 1972 World Sportscar Championship, participating in prestigious events such as the 6 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring. The highlight of its racing career was its class victory at the 1972 24 Hours of Le Mans, where it was piloted by Jürgen Barth and Michael Keyser. This particular 911 ST also gained fame for being used as a camera car during races, capturing footage for the documentary film The Speed Merchants.
Despite its impressive performance, the 911 ST had a relatively short racing career, as Porsche soon shifted its focus to developing more specialized race cars like the 911 RSR. Nevertheless, the 911 ST’s influence on Porsche’s racing heritage is undeniable, as it bridged the gap between the early 911 race cars and the more sophisticated models that would follow. Its rarity, coupled with its success in some of the most challenging endurance races of the time, has made it a highly coveted car among collectors and racing enthusiasts alike. Today, meticulously restored examples of the 911 ST can be seen at vintage racing events and in museums, preserving the legacy of this remarkable racing machine.
The story of the 911 ST exemplifies Porsche’s relentless pursuit of performance, utilizing innovative engineering and a deep understanding of motorsport to create a car that could dominate on the track while still being rooted in the DNA of the road-going 911.
