Porsche 917/30 Junior Kart circa 2018
2/3 scale kart of the famous Le Mans car
A pit car used to tow race cars on and off track between races
Only scaled replica known of the 917/30
In 1973 Porsche released its updated and reworked 917 after changes to the Can-Am race series required modifications to participate. Porsche used its newfound knowledge to create one of the most powerful race cars ever built, with a turbo charged flat-twelve engine producing over 1000 hp, the 917/30 was born. From the second it hit the track it was a beast, the 917/30 went on to dominate in the 1973 CanAm with the top four places in the final points being taken back to Stuttgart and Porsche factory driver, Mark Donohue, setting a closed-circuit record of 222 mph around the Talladega Oval, Alabama. A time that still ranks as one of the fastest race laps ever.
After changing hands throughout the years, the 917/30 was acquired by a builder. and after an 18-month process, they produced a faithful 3/4 scale replica of the famous race car that dominated the CanAm series those years ago. Made with CAD and tig welded frame made to mimic the space frame found on the full-scale model, and a CAD designed, CNC cut polystyrene body plug. Features include an electric starter, one-speed transmission with reverse and differential lock, alloy rims with Hoosier ATV tires, dual hydraulic drum brakes with handbrake, front independent double wishbone suspension, and an adjustable sliding seat. The body was painted by Rodney Holland, and Straight Cut Graphix completed the sign writing.
While not breaking any records like its predecessor with a top speed of around 25 miles an hour, the 917/30 replica kart was made with the purpose of towing the original race car on and off the track, a beautiful recreation of its parent car that dominated racing for many years.
Specifications:
Engine: 401cc four-stroke single-cylinder
Transmission: One-speed manual with reverse
Power: 14 hp @4000 rpm, Torque 22 lb ft @2400 rpm
Speed: 25 mph (top)
Suspension: Front independent double wishbone
Brakes: Duel hydraulic drum