Will the new LMP1 Porsche really measure up?

"Horkin' Up Dangle Hams" (erob599)
08/26/2013 at 18:55 • Filed to: Le Mans

I have seen a lot of print dedicated to the upcoming Porsche LMP1 entry. I should start by saying that I am really pleased to hear Porsche is returning to one of the the highest levels of racing. They have been sorely missed.

I don't need to remind anybody here of Porsche's phenomenal history at Le Mans, or that the 917 is one of the greatest race cars of all time. Not to mention being positively gorgeous. They have won Le Mans sixteen times. 16 times, people!

But Audi has been dominant in the last decade, so do we think that the gasoline-powered Porsche can compete with the diesels? Will it live up to the 917, 962 or even the RS Spyder? I want them to do well, but I am just not sold on their chances. The only thing that gives me hope is the success (albeit limited) of the Toyota TS030 hybrids. The best possible outcome is that Porsche shoves it right in it's cousin's face, starting an epic rivalry for years to come. That dream gives me all sorts of tingles. So what's the consensus, people? Will Porsche make it happen?

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DISCUSSION (8)

For Sweden > Horkin' Up Dangle Hams
08/26/2013 at 18:57

To answer all of your questions, no.

SteyrTMP > Horkin' Up Dangle Hams
08/26/2013 at 22:45

Yes, I expect for them to win. I hear a lot about how Audi has been dominant in the last decade... but they haven't had any real competitors. Porsche has always had some heavy hitters to contend with, and have left the scene only when the car has been banned or restricted to oblivion, or when it's finally been technologically outdated. Hell, the 962 won in the early 90's through a loophole. It'd probably still be dominant today with a few tech upgrades.

Horkin' Up Dangle Hams > SteyrTMP
08/27/2013 at 00:23

I agree, Audi has been without much competition (besides Peugeot, who have been spotty in their commitment). I think their reentrance is definitely a good thing for the sport.

I'm afraid what VW will do if the two teams start competing too intensely. I would think it would be good for both brands, but the overlords at Wolfsburg might not agree.

davesaddiction @ opposite-lock.com > Horkin' Up Dangle Hams
08/27/2013 at 10:50

Yes.

Horkin' Up Dangle Hams > davesaddiction @ opposite-lock.com
08/28/2013 at 10:13

I appreciate your brevity.

davesaddiction @ opposite-lock.com > Horkin' Up Dangle Hams
08/28/2013 at 11:45

To be more verbose, I feel like there's no way that Porsche would come back unless they feel like they have a better than even chance of competing on a high level and winning.

2nd place doesn't get people in the dealerships.

davesaddiction @ opposite-lock.com > Horkin' Up Dangle Hams
08/28/2013 at 11:48

The run Audi has had is just epic, though.

I'm looking forward to the fight next year.

Horkin' Up Dangle Hams > davesaddiction @ opposite-lock.com
08/28/2013 at 15:27

Well said. Porsche doesn't strike me as a company that half asses anything like this. I think they will position themselves well, and give Audi a serious run for their money. God I'm drooling just thinking about it...