Porsche 917 from Steve McQueen’s ‘LeMans’ heads to auction

The 1969 Porsche 917, renowned for its role in the 1971 film “Le Mans” starring Steve McQueen, is set to be auctioned on 18 January 2025, at Mecum’s Kissimmee event.

This particular model, chassis number 917-022, was originally acquired by McQueen’s Solar Productions in 1970 from the Porsche factory to be used in the film.

After the film, it passed on to different notable owners, including racing driver Richard Attwood and, recently, comedian and avid car collector Jerry Seinfeld, who acquired the vehicle in 2001.

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Under Seinfeld’s ownership, the 917K underwent a meticulous facelift by Cavns, which was completed in August 2024 and the car was returned to its original Gulf Oil livery.

The 917 retains most of its original features from its cinematic appearance, including its mounted film cameras and McQueen’s autograph.

The car is celebrated for its incredible racing pedigree, and it features a 4.5-litre flat-12 engine producing 430kW and 500Nm. It is paired with a four-speed manual transmission. 

Its distinctive Gulf blue and orange design and its association with both McQueen and Seinfeld make it a highly coveted collector’s item.

Experts anticipate that the auction could set a new sale price record for a Porsche sold at auction, with estimates ranging from  $US12m-$20m.