This 1959 Porsche 718 RSK was produced on March 4, 1959 and was used to meet the homologation requirements set by the FIA requiring a passenger seat, turn signals, horn and spare tire. Employing a 1587 cc, 4-cam type 547/3 engine producing 145 horsepower, #018 was equipped for endurance with a second fuel tank placed inside the right pod. It was built to take the constant pounding generated on race tracks and hill climbs. It was priced at about $8,000. Thirty-seven RSK type 718s were built by the German fabricator Wendler for Porsche in 1958 and 1959. Emil Pardee of Palo Alto, CA was the first owner who raced it extensively on the west coast until the mid 1960s. It was then placed in storage for the next forty-five years.
In 2014 the Porsche 718 RSK was pulled from storage. Restoration was not easy as the years had taken their toll. It had been partially disassembled and parts were packed in boxes without regard for component identification. It is now restored to its original specifications.
Background
- Manufacturer: Porsche
- Year: 1959
- Model: 718 RSK
Specifications
- Engine: The 718 RSK is powered by a 1.5-liter (1488 cc) flat-four engine, known as the Type 547/3, designed by Dr. Ernst Fuhrmann. This engine is capable of producing around 142 horsepower at 7500 rpm.
- Transmission: It features a five-speed manual transmission.
- Chassis: The car has a tubular spaceframe chassis, designed to be lightweight yet strong, providing a rigid structure for enhanced handling and performance.
- Suspension: The front suspension consists of a torsion bar setup with double trailing arms, while the rear suspension features a swing axle with torsion bars, both designed to optimize handling and stability.
Design and Features
- Body Style: The 718 RSK is a two-seater, open-top sports racer with a low-slung, aerodynamic body. It is designed with a focus on minimizing weight and maximizing aerodynamic efficiency.
- Design: The car features a sleek, streamlined design with a distinctive, rounded front end, pronounced wheel arches, and a low-profile cockpit. The RSK's aerodynamic shape was instrumental in its racing success, allowing it to achieve high speeds and excellent handling characteristics.
- Interior: The interior of the 718 RSK is minimalistic and purpose-built for racing. It includes bucket seats, a simple dashboard with essential gauges, and a small steering wheel. The emphasis is on functionality and driver focus.
Performance
- Speed: The combination of the powerful engine, lightweight construction, and aerodynamic design allows the 718 RSK to reach top speeds of around 150 mph (240 km/h).
- Acceleration: The car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5 seconds, which was impressive for its time.
- Handling: The advanced suspension system and balanced chassis provide exceptional handling and agility, making the 718 RSK highly competitive on both twisty circuits and high-speed tracks.
Historical Significance
- Racing Success: The 718 RSK enjoyed considerable success in motorsports, competing in various prestigious events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Targa Florio, and the 12 Hours of Sebring. Its victories and podium finishes helped solidify Porsche's reputation as a formidable force in endurance racing.
- Engineering Innovation: The RSK's advanced engineering, particularly its lightweight chassis and high-revving flat-four engine, showcased Porsche's commitment to innovation and performance. The car's design influenced subsequent Porsche models and helped pave the way for future racing successes.
Legacy
- Collector's Item: Today, the 1959 Porsche 718 RSK is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Its rarity, historical significance, and racing pedigree make it a valuable and cherished classic car.
- Inspiration for Modern Porsches: The RSK's engineering and design principles continue to influence modern Porsche sports cars. Its legacy is evident in the brand's ongoing commitment to performance, innovation, and motorsport success.
- Enduring Influence: The 718 RSK remains a symbol of Porsche's golden era of racing and is celebrated for its contributions to the marque's storied history. It is often showcased at classic car events, vintage races, and automotive museums.
You may purchase a print of the 1959 Porsche 718 RSK in our dElegance 2018 online gallery.
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