When Porsche rolled out the 959 in 1986, it wasn't just another model but a glimpse into the future of sports cars.
The Porsche 959 immediately captured imaginations worldwide with its attractively packaged combination of high performance, innovation, and exclusivity.
Behind the famed Porsche 959
Developed initially as a Group B rally car, the 959 morphed into something much more: a technological masterpiece on the road.
Its stats were impressive for its time. The 959 introduced a twin-turbo flat-six engine delivering 331kW and a top speed nudging 317km/h.
But it wasn't just about speed. The 959 brought technologies to the table that were groundbreaking. Its innovative all-wheel-drive system, for instance, was a precursor to the technology now common in performance cars.
The Porsche 959 also showcased the pioneering use of materials like Kevlar and aluminium for weight reduction, along with an advanced tyre pressure monitoring system.
These features, complementing the vehicle's adjustable suspension and sleek aerodynamics, made it a car far ahead of its time.
With fewer than 350 units produced, owning a 959 became a symbol of both affluence and discerning taste in automobiles.
The car's allure reached a diverse set of high-profile personalities, from tech giants to sports legends and Hollywood stars.
Mr Bean's Porsche 959
In recent news, there's word that Rowan Atkinson, renowned for his character 'Mr Bean' and perhaps equally known for his discerning taste in cars, has reportedly joined the elite group of Porsche 959 owners.
A source suggests that Atkinson has acquired a 959 for a staggering US$2 million (around NZ$3.28 million), proving both the car's enduring legacy and the actor's passion for exceptional automobiles.
Notable celebrities that have owned a Porsche 959
Each of these celebrities, with their distinctive lifestyles and passions, found something appealing in the Porsche 959.
Whether it's the sports car's cutting-edge (for its time) technology, rarity, or performance, the 959 has a universal appeal among those who appreciate the finer things in life.
Jerry Seinfeld
As one of the most prolific Porsche collectors in the world, Jerry Seinfeld's love for the brand is almost as famous as his comedy.
The 959 in his collection represents the pinnacle of Porsche's engineering prowess during the 1980s. Likely among the rarest cars in the sitcom star's garage, his 959 is reportedly valued at over US$700,000 (NZ$1.15 million).
Bill Gates
The story of Gates and his Porsche 959 is a narrative of persistence and influence. After facing legal hurdles due to the 959 not meeting US import regulations, Gates helped to inspire the enactment of the 'Show and Display' law in the United States.
This law allows automotive enthusiasts to import and drive limited edition and historically significant cars like the 959 on American roads, albeit with certain restrictions. Gates' struggle and eventual success in importing the 959 shows his mettle as a true car enthusiast.
Don Johnson
In the 1980s, Don Johnson was the epitome of cool, and so was the Porsche 959. For Johnson, known for his role in Miami Vice where fast cars were a staple, owning a 959 was more than just a status symbol but also an extension of his on-screen persona into real life.
The 959, with its futuristic design and impeccable performance, was a perfect fit for a star at the forefront of 80s pop culture.
Boris Becker
Former world's best tennis player Boris Becker's acquisition of a Porsche 959 speaks to his character as a sportsman always pushing the limits.
For a superstar athlete like Becker, the 959 must have been more than a luxurious purchase. The car's capabilities on the road could be seen as a parallel to Becker's prowess on the tennis court.
Martina Navratilova
Martina Navratilova's ownership of a Porsche 959 reflects her personality and career as a trailblazer.
Just as she pushed boundaries in tennis, the 959 pushed boundaries in the car world. Her choice of such an advanced vehicle highlights Navratilova's appreciation for excellence and innovation, qualities she herself embodied in her sport.
That's not all - in 2017, Navratilova even divulged that she once took her 959 to 300km/h on Germany's infamous Autobahn. Talk about fearless.
Nick Heidfeld
For a former Formula One driver like Nick Heidfeld, a car is more than a mode of transportation - it's a passion.
Owning a 959, one of the most technically refined cars of its time, aligns perfectly with his professional life spent around cutting-edge F1 racing tech.
The 959, known for its performance in terms of speed and handling, would have been particularly appealing to Heidfeld, resonating with his background and expertise in high-performance racing.