Jörg Bergmeister's Custom 911 GT3 RS is an Ode to Daytona Winning 996
Porsche pays homage to its historic 996-generation 911 GT3 RS victory at Daytona with a bespoke creation based on the latest 992 GT3 RS.
A Historic Victory
In a groundbreaking triumph on February 2, 2003, a Porsche 911 GT3 RS, entered by The Racer Group and piloted by Jörg Bergmeister, Michael Schrom, and Timo Bernhard, clinched both class and overall victory at the prestigious 24 Hours of Daytona. This remarkable win marked a significant milestone in Porsche's motorsport legacy, surpassing even the faster prototype cars in a memorable showcase of endurance and performance.
A Personal Journey Unfolds
Nearly two decades later, the seeds of a unique endeavor were sown when Michael Schrom, one of the drivers from the victorious team, proposed the idea of a tribute car upon the announcement of the new 911 GT3 RS in 2022. Inspired by the impending 20th anniversary of their Daytona victory, Jörg Bergmeister embarked on an 18-month journey to craft a deeply personal and commemorative vehicle, marking a testament to enduring camaraderie and shared triumphs among old friends.
Crafting the Tribute
With careful consideration and attention to detail, Bergmeister collaborated closely with Porsche's Sonderwunsch team to meticulously design the customized 911 GT3 RS. The car, painted in Riviera Blue reminiscent of the Daytona-winning livery, boasts Racing Yellow accents and distinctive features such as a white-painted rear wing with matching side plates, faithfully replicating the iconic aesthetics of the historic triumph while infusing unique elements to honor the occasion.
A Personal Touch
Inside the cabin, the tribute car features extended black leather with GT Silver contrasting stitching, embodying a blend of luxury and performance. Noteworthy details include Race-Tex covering on the dash, carbon fiber door sill panels with engraved lettering reminiscent of Rolex watches awarded to Daytona winners, and the inclusion of the Club Sports package, accentuating the car's racing heritage with a road-legal fire extinguisher.
Presenting the Masterpiece
Porsche unveiled the bespoke GT3 RS to Bergmeister in Zuffenhausen, coinciding with his 48th birthday, marking the culmination of an emotional and nostalgic journey. While the car undergoes meticulous paint protection, Bergmeister expresses reverence for the vehicle, intending to preserve its significance and cherish the memories it evokes, emphasizing its symbolic value beyond mere mechanical prowess.
Reflecting on Triumph and Tribute
As Bergmeister reflects on the completed tribute car, he acknowledges the profound significance of the Daytona victory and the enduring legacy it represents. Expressing pride and gratitude for the journey, he emphasizes the emotional resonance of the tribute, encapsulating not only a momentous triumph but also the enduring bonds of friendship and shared achievements in the world of motorsport.
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