The Remarkable Journey Of The Porsche Type 64 Set To Break Auction Records

Later this summer, one of the earliest Porsche automobiles ever constructed will hit the RM Sotheby's auction block. It's expected to fetch somewhere between $20 million and $25 million when the bidding is done. If it comes close to those projections, it would likely be the most valuable Porsche ever sold, according to CNN. This auction presents a unique opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike to own a piece of automotive history.

Marcus Görig, RM Sotheby's resident Car Specialist, emphasizes the significance of this car in the automotive world. In the official auction listing, he states, "Without the Type 64, there would be no Porsche 356, no 550, no 911…This is Porsche's origin story, the car that birthed the company's legend, and it offers collectors what is likely an unrepeatable opportunity to sit in the seat of Ferdinand and Ferry Porsche. With this car, the new owner will not only be invited to the first row of every Porsche event worldwide—they will be the first row!" This statement encapsulates the essence of the car and its historical importance.

The Porsche Type 64 stands as a testament to the brand's innovative spirit. However, estimates of the car's value are tricky to pin down, as no other Porsche Type 64 has ever been auctioned before. The only other surviving Type 64 is currently on display in a museum in Germany. Interestingly, the auction car is technically the third Type 64, built on the frame of the first one, linking it deeply to Porsche's storied past.

The Type 64 is not just a car; it represents a pivotal moment in automotive history. It introduced the revolutionary concept of placing the engine in the back of the car, a design that became a hallmark of later models like the Porsche 356 and 911. This innovation has left a lasting impact on the automobile industry, making the Type 64 a highly sought-after collector's item.

Previously, the auction record for Porsche was held by a 1970 Porsche 917, which sold for $14 million in 2017, driven by Steve McQueen in the film Le Mans. The anticipation surrounding the Type 64 suggests that it may soon surpass this record, solidifying its place in automotive lore.