PORSCHE CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF THE 911 GT3

The motorsport-derived 911 variant debuted 20 years ago
Atlanta, Georgia. 20 years ago, Porsche introduced a new 911 model the 911 GT3. Named after a class of endurance racing cars, the motorsport-derived variant focused on track performance and a particularly visceral driving experience by offering motorsport technology for the road. A high-revving naturally-aspirated flat six engine closely related to the engine used in motorsports, rear wheel drive, lightweight construction, upgraded aerodynamics and track-focused suspension and brake systems have been defining characteristics of this model throughout its 20 year history.

The beginnings
The first 911 GT3 model was introduced to the European market in 1999. It was one of the first production cars to officially lap the legendary Nürburgring-Nordschleife in less than 8 minutes, with rally legend Walter Rӧhrl going around the famous track in just 7:56.33 minutes – a sensation at the time. The car distinguished itself from rear-wheel drive 911 Carrera models through a 30 mm reduction in ride height, pronounced front fascia, visible side skirts and a fixed rear wing – all designed to reduce lift while still delivering a very efficient 0.30 drag coefficient. The angle of attack of the rear wing is adjustable for use on closed-course tracks.

The original 911 GT3 was powered by a 265 kW (360 PS) 3.6 liter naturally-aspirated flat six engine that was derived from the Le Mans winning Porsche 911 GT1 race car and revved up to 7,800 rpm. Mated exclusively to a six-speed manual transmission carried over from the 911 GT2 (993 generation), the first 911 GT3 reached a top track speed of 187 miles per hour. The track-focused model also featured staggered 18-inch wheels and tires, larger brakes compared to the 911 Carrera, a standard limited slip differential, and an upgraded suspension that allowed for greater mechanical adjustment of anti-roll bars and suspension geometry for closed-course track setup. Taking advantage of weight savings measures such as the deletion of air-conditioning and rear seats, the 911 GT3 weighed just 2,976 lbs. (1350 kg).

The successor
Four years later, the 911 GT3 received significant updates, and was offered in North America for the first time. Based on the facelifted 996 generation 911, horsepower grew to 381, torque rose from 273 to 285 lb-ft, and the redline climbed to 8,200 rpm. This was possible by updating the engine with longer titanium connecting rods, lighter pistons, the variable camshaft adjustment system VarioCam, and lighter intake and exhaust valves. As a result, the 2004 model year 911 GT3 accelerated from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.3 seconds, and achieved a top track speed of 190 miles per hour. The car remained paired to a six-speed manual transmission, albeit with modified ratios for gears five and six. In addition to restyled fasciae, a new rear wing and updated wheel design, this model featured wider front and rear tires. Underscoring the effort of the Motorsport department to save weight wherever possible, the new wheel/tire combination saved 2.2 lb in spite of the increase in size thanks to flow-formed wheel technology. Larger front brake rotors, up from 330 mm to 350 mm, and 6-piston calipers increased pad-to-rotor contact by about 40 percent. As an option, Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) with carbon-ceramic brake rotors was available for the first time in the GT3, taken from the 996-generation 911 GT2.

Third generation of GT3 arrives
Based on the 997-generation of 911, a new 911 GT3 model was unveiled in 2006. Still powered by a 3.6 liter naturally-aspirated flat six, horsepower now crossed the 400 threshold, rising to 415. The engine was now capable of revving up to 8,400 rpm. The 2007 911 GT3 sprinted from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.1 seconds and reached a top track speed of 193 miles per hour. The six speed transmission offered 15 percent shorter shift throws and a reduction of ratios for gears two through six, pairing well to power delivery of the engine. To make full use of the increase in power, the suspension was enhanced with divided control arms offering greater adjustment of camber angle. Additionally, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) was offered as standard for the first time on the GT3, offering the capability of electronically adjusting the dampers. Wheel diameters grew to 19-inches, the size of the standard rear cast iron brake rotors increased to 350 mm, the optional PCCB rotors grew to 380 mm at the front axle, and Ultra-High Performance tires (UHP) were mounted to further increase grip.

The 997 became the first 911 GT3 model to be equipped with a traction control system (TC), which complemented the standard limited slip differential by giving the driver greater control, particularly on slippery surfaces. The car was also fitted with a “SPORT” button for the first time, reducing backpressure in the exhaust and put the traction control system in a more dynamic mode. In spite of the added technology and safety equipment such as new Sport Seats with side airbags, the car tipped the scales at just 3,075 lb (1395 kg) thanks to new weight-saving aluminum doors and luggage compartment lid. The 911 GT3 of the 997 generation was characterized by new styling, with cues such as the air outlet in front of the luggage compartment lid designed to extract air from the front center radiator and increase downforce at the front axle. This was also the first model to feature center-mounted tailpipes for the exhaust. The interior offered new features such as a steering wheel, hand brake lever and gearshift lever covered with Alcantara.

Larger engine, faster lap times
For the 2010 model year, the 911 GT3 received not only a visual update as part of the facelifted 997 generation, but also a number of significant technical changes. For the first time, the engine displacement of the race-derived flat six was no longer 3.6, but 3.8 liters. 435 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque propelled the new model from 0 to 60 mph in 4.0 seconds flat and on to a top track speed of 194 miles per hour while reaching engine speeds of up to 8,500 rpm. The 911 GT3 of this generation featured even more technology directly adopted from motorsport, such as the new center lock hubs for the 19-inch wheels which increased driving performance with lower rotating masses. At the same time, electronic stability control (ESC) complemented the traction control system introduced on the previous model, adding another layer of control for the driver. An optional front axle lift system was introduced for the first time, offering an additional 1.2 inches (30 mm) of ride height at the front axle to clear driveways and speed bumps. Ultimately, the most impressive trait of this 911 GT3 was its increased track performance. With the latest generation of UHP-tires and PASM calibration as well as optional dynamic engine mounts, it lapped the Nürburgring-Nordschleife in just 7 minutes and 40 seconds.

The 991 generation GT3
Introduced in 2013 for the 2014 model year, the 911 GT3 based on the newly introduced 991-generation adopted one of the biggest advancements in performance and technology ever seen on a road car: the seven-speed Porsche dual-clutch transmission (PDK). It had already been available on the 911 Carrera and Turbo variants of the previous generation, but was significantly modified to suit the characteristics of this race-bred model and fitted as standard. Lighter gear sets reduced the weight of the unit by about four pounds compared to the standard 911 Carrera models, and the gear ratios were shortened to suit the high-revving nature of the naturally-aspirated 475 hp 3.8 liter flat six which featured direct injection for the first time and revved to an impressive 9,000 rpm. Top track speed was 195 mph, reached in seventh gear. Due to the Launch Control feature and lightning quick shifts of less than 100 milliseconds, the 0 to 60 mph time dropped significantly to just 3.3 seconds. The track performance of this latest 911 GT3 also benefited from the new 991 platform. Track widths and body stiffness increased, PASM system advanced, and standard center-lock wheels were made of forged aluminum for the first time while increasing to 20-inch diameter. They were fitted with the latest generation of UHP-tires, and rear axle steering was added as standard for the first time on the GT3. This innovative technology, shared with the 918 Spyder and 911 Turbo, steered the rear wheels in opposite direction of the front wheels at speeds of up to 31 mph to increase agility and reduce the turning circle. Over 50 mph, the system steered the rear wheels in tandem with the front wheels to promote stability, for example during a lane change at higher speeds. The size of the cast iron brake rotors grew to 380 mm front and rear, while the optional PCCB system, now in its third generation, featured 410 mm rotors up front and 390 mm rotors at the rear. Despite the significant increase in technology, the latest 911 GT3 still proved to be a lightweight at 3,153 lbs. Equipped with all these enhancements, and clad in a new body that provided a significant increase in downforce compared to the 997-generation models, the 2014 911 GT3 completed a lap of the Nürburgring-Nordschleife in 7 minutes and 25 seconds.

Today…
7:12.7 minutes: The lap time of the current 911 GT3 represents roughly 45 seconds of improvement at the ‘Ring compared to the original model. A world of difference. The new 4.0-liter engine develops 500 hp and a healthy 346 lb-ft of torque. A new crankshaft, larger main bearings, thicker connecting rod bearings, plasma-coated cylinder liners as well as a new oiling system that supplies oil directly into the feeder bore of the crankshaft take the durability of the engine to new heights. Like on a racing powertrain, valve train clearance is set at the factory using shims and does not require adjustment. Breathing of the engine is improved thanks to larger ram air ducts on top of the rear decklid cover. Downforce grows 20 percent compared to the previous model to a total of 340 lbs. (155 kg) at the top track speed of 198 mph. This improvement is made possible by a new front fascia featuring lateral air blades, a special front spoiler lip, a new rear underbody diffusor, and a prominent rear wing which sits 0.8 inches higher than before. Special lightweight touches include front and rear fasciae made of lightweight polyurethane and a rear decklid made of carbon fiber composite, including the hinges. Catering to the purists, a six-speed manual transmission was re-introduced as a no-cost alternative to the standard seven speed PDK. This is also the exclusive transmission for the 911 GT3 with Touring Package, which was first shown in September 2017. The Touring Package retains the engine and suspension from the 911 GT3, but deletes the fixed rear wing in favor of an automatically controlled rear spoiler from the 911 Carrera Cabriolet models, fitted with an additional Gurney flap. Chrome accents and cloth seat inserts replacing the Alcantara upholstery lend a more subdued touch to the model.

More capable and diverse than ever before, the 911 GT3 represents the beating heart of Porsche’s commitment to building pure, uncompromised sports cars.

NEWS PROVIDED BY PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Dan Gurney

Veloce were saddened to hear news of the passing of a another motorsport legend, Dan Gurney, on the 14th January, aged 86.

Dan Gurney, Netherlands GP, 1970
By Joost Evers / Anefo (Nationaal Archief)
via Wikimedia Commons

Daniel Sexton Gurney was born in Port Jefferson, New Jersey, on April 13 1931. He moved to California with his family when he was 16, and by the time he was just 19 years old, he built and ran a car that attained 138mph at the Bonneville Salt Flats. His interests quickly moved-on to dragsters and sports cars.

With the ability to wrest even less-than-competitive, pre aero-era cars to a podium finish, he was said to be the only driver that Jim Clark feared on track. Gurney’s racing record reads like a hall of fame of championship series and cars, and he leaves a legacy that future drivers, constructors, and team owners alike, may never again attain. His career saw a string of high-profile wins and podium places in the world’s top racing series, from F1 and Le Mans, to Indy and NASCAR.

But it wasn't only racing where Gurney made his considerable mark. Constructor and team owner are also prominent on his CV, and his Eagle-Weslake cars are still considered as one of the most visually stunning F1 cars of all time.

A comprehensive look at Dan Gurney’s life and career in motorsport appears in Motor Racing Heroes – The Stories of 100 Greats, by Robert Newman.

Daniel Sexton Gurney, 13 April 1931 – 14 January 2018

24 Hours in 24 numbers

The 24hrs of Le Mans – arguably the biggest motorsport event of the year – has now been and gone, and proved to be an exceptional event. A new qualifying lap record, two LMP2s on the podium, and a record win for Porsche, to name just a few notable events, saw the 85th edition of the 24 Hours marking itself as one that will be talked about for some time to come.

The Automobile Club de l-Ouest recently posted a summary of this year's event, taking a unique look at Le Mans through 24 numbers … so we thought we'd pay tribute to Le Mans and the ACO with this infographic – they're all the rage, don't you know! So, here's the 2017 24 Hours of Le Mans in 24 numbers.

As with all things Le Mans 24hrs, it's a BIG … if you can't read the image below, click here to see a REALLY BIG version.

924 GT RACE CAR DRIVEN IN 1980 LE MANS 24 HOURS BY TONY DRON AND ANDY ROUSE

Back to the future: 1980 Porsche Le Mans racer reunited with British driver line-up at Silverstone prior to beginning restoration by Porsche Classic Centre Partners.

Thirty-five years since it last turned a wheel in anger, a significant Porsche race car has arrived in the UK in the first stage of a journey that will see it restored prior to returning once again to the circuit.

The Porsche 924 Carrera GT Le Mans raced at the iconic French 24 Hours endurance motor sport event in 1980 as part of an innovative three-car, international team. Car #2 was the British entry, #3 the American and #4 was the German car. Each car featured distinctive liveries based on the national flags, and the British car is arguably the only Porsche factory race to have competed with such a prominent red, white and blue motif.

The driving force in 1980 comprised Tony Dron and Andy Rouse, and they finished the 24 Hours in 12th place. At a special event at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone, the two British racers were reunited with ‘their’ car for the first time since the race.

The front-engined, rear-wheel drive 924 coupe has been in the storage archives of the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart since its retirement. Now, Porsche Cars GB has been entrusted with the restoration of the famous British car #2 in a unique initiative that will see the skilled technicians at Porsche Classic Partner Centres undertake key aspects of the work.

There are four Porsche Classic Partner Centres in the Porsche Cars GB sales network, located in Glasgow, Hatfield, Leeds and Swindon. A thorough inspection of the historic race car has resulted in a comprehensive list of work that will be required to bring it back to a representative - yet historically sympathetic - race-ready condition. Porsche Centre Glasgow will work on the suspension, brakes and wheels; Porsche Centre Hatfield will take on the gearbox and drivetrain; Porsche Centre Leeds will have the responsibility for the electrics and radiator plumbing; and Porsche Centre Swindon will breathe new life into the engine. Road and Race Restorations in Manchester, a Porsche Recommended Body Repairer, will complete the project by restoring the bodywork and interior trim.

This project supports the 40th anniversary of the launch of the 924 in 1976, the first model in the so-called ‘transaxle’ series of Porsche cars, with their front engines and gearboxes located in combination with the rear-driven axle. Once completed, it is intended the historic 924 Carrera GT Le Mans will be demonstrated at events such as Goodwood Festival of Speed, Silverstone Classic and Classics at the Castle – and also proudly displayed in the showrooms of the Porsche Centres responsible bringing this part of Porsche motorsport history back to life once more.

– Available from Veloce –

The Porsche 924 Carrera – evolution to excellence
By Roy Smith
The 924 Carrera was a homologation model built to qualify the 924 model to race in Group 4. One of the great supercars of the 1980s, the 924 Carrera was considered by many to have better handling characteristics than Porsche’s flagship 911. The book features interviews with many of those involved with the car at the time together with race stories, statistics, and a unique exposé of component failures during racing.



Click here for more information about the book.

GOODWOOD FOS TO MARK DEREK BELL'S MAIDEN LE MANS WIN

This year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed will mark the 40th anniversary of Derek Bell’s maiden Le Mans 24 Hours victory with an incredible line-up of cars that have played a major part in the sports car legend’s racing career.
Bell made his race debut at Goodwood in 1964 and has remained intrinsically linked with the venue ever since, through a career that has included five wins at the world’s most famous endurance race, as well as World Sports Car titles in 1985 and ’86.

Bell’s success behind the wheel will be celebrated with a Hillclimb class exclusively for cars associated with his career. More than a dozen cars are already confirmed for the June 25- 28 event that celebrates the theme ‘Flat-Out and Fearless: Racing on the Edge’.
Pride of place will go to the Mirage GR8-Cosworth in which he and Jacky Ickx won at Le Mans in 1975 to begin an incredible run of results at La Sarthe for the Sussex racer.
Two Porsches with which Bell is synonymous are also set to feature: a Gulf 917 of the type in which he raced in 1971, and the ‘Rothmans’ 962C in which he scored his final victory at Le Mans in 1987, alongside Al Holbert and Hans-Joachim Stuck.
Bell’s career was both long and varied and this will be represented by the inclusion of an example of the Ferrari 246 single-seater in which he raced in the 1969 Tasman Series , and the Tecno PA123 in which he raced in Formula 1 in 1973.
A BMW ‘Batmobile’ 3.0 CSL similar to the one in which he won the 1973 RAC Tourist Trophy and an example of the Broadspeed Jaguar XJ12C he raced in the European Touring Car Championship are also set to appear.
The latter part of Bell’s career will be represented by the Kremer K8 Spyder he raced at Le Mans in 1994 and by the ‘Harrods’ McLaren F1 GTR in which he finished third in France the following season with his son Justin and Andy Wallace.

Derek Bell, five-time Le Mans winner, said: “Goodwood means an awful lot to me, so for Lord March to celebrate my first Le Mans win in 1975 with the Gulf Mirage, having done a heck of a lot of the testing here, is very special. When I was younger, all I wanted to do was race at Goodwood. I’d be on the farm pitching the hay and I’d hear the Formula 1 BRMs testing with guys like Juan Manuel Fangio and Ken Wharton behind the wheel. I never dreamed I’d go on to race other places and achieve so much success. And it all started here at Goodwood.”

Available from Veloce!
Gulf-Mirage 1967 to 1982
Ed McDonough

Details the origin and history of the Mirage sports cars, designed by the British-based John Wyer Automotive firm to contest the various versions of the World Sports Car Championship.

More info.

PORSCHE 924 CARRERA BOOK TRAILER

New video with award winning motoring writer Roy Smith & Le Mans legend & Porsche 924 Carrera GTS owner Derek Bell.

Look out for the full interview coming soon to the Veloce YouTube channel!

Available December 2014!
The Porsche 924 Carrera - evolution to excellence
By Roy Smith
Forewords by Norbert Singer, Jürgen Barth & Derek Bell.

The 924 Carrera was a homologation model built to qualify the 924 model to race in Group 4. One of the great supercars of the 1980s, the 924 Carrera was considered by many to have better handling characteristics than Porsche’s flagship 911. The book features interviews with many of those involved with the car at the time together with race stories, statistics, and a unique exposé of component failures during racing. More info.

ALPINE READY TO JOIN BATTLE IN 2014

In 2014, the Alpine A450 will be shared by Frenchmen Nelson Panciatici and Paul-Loup Chatin, plus Britain’s Oliver Webb to defend the 2013 the 2013 European Le Mans Series crown.

Thirty-five years after withdrawing from motorsport following its win in the 1978 Le Mans 24 Hours, Alpine made its eagerly-awaited return to circuit racing in 2013 – and promptly triumphed in the European Le Mans Series (ELMS).

With an ambitious programme ahead as it prepares for the launch of the new ‘Berlinette of the 21st Century’ (due to go on sale in 2016), Alpine is looking to defend its title this season. Three men will share the driving during what will be longer, four-hour races this year, with the outgoing ELMS champ Nelson Panciatici joined by Paul-Loup Chatin (Alpine’s ‘Junior’ driver in 2013)and ex-Formula Renault 3.5 Series runner Oliver Webb.

This year’s campaign, which is structured around the Le Mans 24 Hours, with the ELMS as its backbone, will also herald the arrival of new partners, such as Dieppe Maritime, a conglomeration of urban districts in the Dieppe region, long-time home of the Alpine brand. The Team keeps on working with Michelin, a long standing partner, which was involved in Alpine’s previous successes during the 1960’s and ‘70s.

“Humility has always been a hallmark of our brand and it continued to underpin our approach when we returned to endurance racing last season,” says Alpine Director Bernard Ollivier. “The objective of the programme’s first year was to reacquaint ourselves with the discipline. This season, our aim is to defend our European title right from the opening round at Silverstone, whilst the other key target will be to showcase our potential and performance in the Le Mans 24 Hours.”

“As defending champions, it would be inconceivable not to want to retain our ELMS title,” notes Signatech-Alpine Team Principal Philippe Sinault. “Our team received tremendous support throughout 2013, and it was fantastic to be able to share our success with everyone. In 2014, we need to confirm that promise as we continue to lay the foundations for Alpine’s renaissance. Season two ushers in a number of changes, including the promotion of our ‘Junior’ driver Paul-Loup Chatin to the main squad and the arrival of Britain’s Oliver Webb alongside Nelson Panciatici. We will similarly reveal some aesthetic modifications at Silverstone that are sure to please Alpine’s fans.”

The season got underway at the beginning of April with two days of testing at Paul Ricard, France. Notwithstanding a collision in the first session – which gave the technical staff a chance to demonstrate their talent as they restored the Alpine A450 to full health – Signatech-Alpine posted the fourth-fastest lap time and, crucially, completed a high number of laps.

The 2013 ELMS Champion Nelson Panciatici recalls the horrendous weather that marked last year’s visit to Silverstone: “We were fast, but the race was interrupted for a long time and ultimately halted early because of the rain. It was the most frustrating event of the season. This time round, we’re out for revenge. The target is victory and a big points haul!”

Source: Alpine

Available from Veloce! Alpine Renault – The fabulous berlinettes
By Roy Smith
The berlinettes were fragile, beautifully designed, lightweight road rockets. For the first time, Alpine Renault enthusiasts around the world can read the complete history of these cars in English.
This important new book is not just for owners of Alpine Renaults, but for all those interested in rallying and its spectacular period of rapid development in the late 1960s and early '70s. Hear from the men who built the cars, some of the great drivers who became famous driving them, the team manager, the Rédélé family – creators of the car – and the mechanics who kept the cars going. The story covers the concept, the first cars, the early road cars, and their entry into competition on the European rallying circuit, with full charted documentary details.
The Alpine A110 berlinette was a car born to compete, born to win. This is its story.

90TH ANNIVERSARY OF LE MANS 24 HOURS

With the 2013 Le Mans race taking place this weekend, we thought we'd celebrate the 90th anniversary with a selection of classic Le Mans images from Veloce books!

Images from Le Mans Panoramic, Motor Movies - The Posters, Gulf Mirage, Audi R8, and Porsche 908.

LE MANS 24 HRS: THE N°36 ALPINE REVEALED

It was a little less than 35 years ago that the 1978 Le Mans 24 Hours-winning Alpine-Renault A442B paraded down the Champs-Elysées in front of a cheering crowd who turned out to show their appreciation for the car’s success in the hands of Jean-Pierre Jaussaud and Didier Pironi. Today, the Parisian public and visitors to the French capital have another chance to discover the A442B, since it is one of the centrepieces of the ‘No Limit!’ exhibition which is currently running at L’Atelier Renault (until April 7).

The Champs Elysees premises consequently provided the ideal backdrop for the revelation of the new Alpine prototype which is poised to compete in this year’s endurance racing season. Société des Automobiles Alpine-Caterham’s CEO Bernard Ollivier and Philippe Sinault, Signatech-Alpine Team Principal, lifted the veil to reveal a striking blue and orange livery which recalls the colours sported by the Alpines which raced at Le Mans some five decades ago.

“Since the announcement of Alpine’s revival on November 5 last year, we have been moving forward step by step,” said Bernard Ollivier. “The unveiling of this splendid car marks the beginning of another phase. It will turn a wheel for the first time very soon, and its maiden race will follow shortly afterwards. The news of our endurance racing programme received a very positive welcome, not only from diehard Alpine enthusiasts, but also from the world of motor racing in general. We can hardly wait to see our brand’s colours in action!”

“I am extremely proud to be representing Alpine, but it as an honour which goes hand in hand with significant responsibilities,” noted Philippe Sinault. “The next step is to take the car to Paul Ricard where our work will begin in earnest. Our aim is to be competitive in endurance racing’s highly competitive LMP2 class. We will use the different test sessions that are planned, as well as the first two rounds of the ELMS, to prepare for June’s Le Mans 24 Hours which is clearly the focal point of the season.”

The drivers who have been named to share the N°36 Alpine-Renault form a blend of experience and youth, and all three are keen to get behind its wheel. Nelson Panciatici, 24, and Pierre Ragues, 29, who were confirmed at the time of the programme’s original announcement, will be joined for the Le Mans 24 Hours by 34-year old Tristan Gommendy. The three Frenchmen all rose up through the ranks of Renault’s single-seater formulae and, between them, total 10 previous participations in the world’s most famous motor race. Another French youngster, Paul-Loup Chatin, has been chosen as the car’s reserve driver.

Source: Alpine

ALPINE TO COMPETE AT LE MANS FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 35 YEARS

On 5 November 2012, Renault’s senior management announced its intention to revive the Alpine brand within the framework of a partnership with Caterham. Today, under the leadership of CEO Bernard Ollivier, the recently-created Société des Automobiles Alpine Caterham is already working on a new car which is expected to reach the market in 2016.

In the meantime, the brand is gradually building up to its return to consolidate its image thanks to carefully-tailored programmes in all its traditional areas of activity.

After presentations at the 2012 Monaco F1 Grand Prix and at the Le Mans Classic week of the Alpine A110-50, which was released to mark the 50th anniversary of the celebrated ‘Berlinette’, five Alpine A110s were officially entered for the recent Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique. They were given a warm welcome by the public and afterwards joined other models of the make founded byJean Rédélé at the Rétromobile Show in Paris, France, at the beginning of February.

Today, another important step has been taken with the announcement that an Alpineprototype is to race in the competitive 2013 European Le Mans Series endurance racing championship (ELMS), as well as at this year’s Le Mans 24 Hours (June 22-23).

The decision to compete at Le Mans fits perfectly with the brand’s heritage, since Alpine contested the famous 24-hour race 11 times between 1963 and 1978, running a total of 55 factory cars. In addition to its successes in the ‘Energy Index’ classification in 1964, 1965 and 1968, as well as in the ‘Performance Index’ classification in 1968 and 1969, its efforts harvested seven class wins in total and, above all, outright victory in 1978 with the Alpine A442B prototype shared by Jean-Pierre Jaussaud and Didier Pironi. The two Frenchmen were joined in the top four by the A442 ofJean Ragnotti and Guy Fréquelin.

For its return to Le Mans, Alpine has joined forces with Signatech. ThePhilippe Sinault-run team will enter an Alpine LMP2 prototype with anAlpine chassis powered by a 500hp Nissan engine for the five rounds of the ELMS, including the opening race at Silverstone, England (13 April). The drivers will be Pierre Ragues and Nelson Panciatici.

The highlight of the season will naturally be the Le Mans 24 Hours. The name of the third driver who will join the team for the world’s most famous endurance race will be announced when the car is officially presented at Le Castellet, France, on 24 March.

Source: Alpine

Click HERE to view all Alpine books by Veloce!

LOLA T70 TO STAR IN RACE RETRO SALE

1969 Lola T70 MKII B from cult movie up for auction

A 1969 Lola race car which starred in the classic Steve McQueen film “Le Mans” is now taking centre stage at the Silverstone Auctions hosted by Race Retro & Classic Car Sale.

Estimated at between £570,000 to £650,000, the Lola T70 being offered was one of three MKIII B’s used in the action packed film, which now enjoys iconic status.

The actual model going under the hammer on 23rd February at Stoneleigh Park as part of the Race Retro weekend was repainted yellow for the movie and was seen spinning on the downhill approach to the Indianapolis corner.

But that wasn’t the end of its ‘acting’ career as it was then cloned to look like a Gulf-Porsche 917 for a spectacular crash sequence – ultimately ending up in the armco!

However, as well as being a famous car with a distinguished movie past, it has been completely rebuilt for European sports car racing at the highest level and comes ‘on the button’ with current FIA papers, a fresh engine, a rebuilt gearbox and a new differential.

Nick Whale, managing director, Silverstone Auctions, said: “It’s rare for a car with such a colourful history, including a starring role in one of the most famous films of the 1970’s, to be offered for auction, so we’re absolutely delighted to have secured it for the Race Retro & Classic Car Sale.

“Indeed, whether you’re a fan of the big screen, love cars that are built purely for excitement, or just admire its amazing styling, you have to admit that this is one very special race car.”

Adding to its appeal is that it is ready to compete at the top European circuits having recently won at both Monza and Spa. Meanwhile, accompanying the car, which is resplendent in its period race livery, is an extensive spares package.

Full details of the 1969 Lola T70 MkIII B being offered by Silverstone Auctions and details of its illustrious history can be found at www.silverstoneauctions.com.

Available from Veloce!
Lola T70 - Racing History & Individual Chassis Record (4th edition) by John Starkey.
Over many years, John Starkey – T70 owner and ex-Curator of the famous Donington racing car collection – has compiled a huge amount of information on the cars and interviewed many past and present owners and drivers about their experiences with the T70. Uniquely, this book contains the history and specification – where known – of each individual T70 chassis. More info.

AUDI IS WELL PREPARED FOR LE MANS 24 HRS

Le Mans premiere for Audi R18 ultra and R18 e-tron quattro



Audi Sport Team Joest made efficient use of the only testing opportunity of the year at Le Mans. The two Audi R18 e-tron quattro and the R18 ultra vehicles covered a total distance of 4,497 kilometres on the circuit that is primarily made up of public roads. From the suspension set-up and aerodynamics through to tyre tests, handling of the LMP sports prototypes with varying amounts of fuel and the comparison of the concepts, the engineers gathered valuable data for the year’s most important endurance race. Occasional precipitation in some areas made for changeable conditions on the 13.629-kilometre track though.

Marco Bonanomi, the only Audi factory driver who has previously never participated in the Le Mans 24 Hours, qualified for the grid by completing ten mandatory laps and numerous additional kilometres in the number "4" Audi R18 ultra.

The day’s fastest time of 3m 25.927s was achieved by Allan McNish. An excursion by the Scotsman at Tertre Rouge, though, put a premature end to the track presence of car number "1" one hour before the test was over. With positions one, two, three and six plus a wealth of valuable data Audi concluded the test day on an extremely positive note and thoroughly completed its preparations.

New from Veloce!

Le Mans Panoramic
By Gavin Ireland.
The Le Mans 24 Hours is the ultimate endurance race, and a classic feature of the motorsport calendar. This book captures the sheer scale and drama of this legendary race as never before, using specialist panoramic photography to give an unprecedented wide angle view of how the race is entered, watched, won, and lost. It is a timeless tribute to the Le Mans 24 Hours. More info.

Audi R8 (WSC Giants) by Ian Wagstaff.
The history of the world’s most successful endurance racing car: the Audi R8. Featuring reports of all of its 80 races, plus profiles of the 35 drivers who raced the car between 2000 and 2006 – as well as the Audi R8R and R8C of 1999. Features individual chassis details, results, and observations from significant individuals involved with the R8. More info.

"ANOTHER HIT FOR VELOCE" - TrackDriver

Le Mans Panoramic by Gavin Ireland is reviewed in TrackDriver magazine!

Click here for more info about the book!

TOP TEN SALES FOR MARCH 2012

A new entry this month straight in at number 1!

1: Le Mans Panoramic (Ireland)
2: Gulf-Mirage 1967-1982 (WSC Giants) (McDonough)
3: Sleeping Beauties USA (Marek)
4: Jaguar XK8 & XKR EBG (Thorley)
5: Meet the English (Bowie)
6: How to Build Motorcycle-engined Racing Cars (SpeedPro) (Pashley)
7: Mazda MX-5 Miata 1.8 (RAC) (Grainger)
8: Motor racing at Thruxton in the 1980s (TWTD) (Grant-Braham)
9: Tales from the Toolbox (Oliver)
10: HT modify retro or classic car (SpeedPro) (Stapleton)

AUTHOR INTERVIEW: ANTHONY CARTER REFLECTS ON A LOST ERA OF MOTOR RACING

Motor Racing - Reflections of a lost era
By Anthony Carter

A defining era in motorsport documented in words and intimate photographs, both black and white and colour, from the mid-1950s through the 1960s, when motor racing was still accessible to all, and the 1970s when overt sponsorship and television changed the sport for ever.

More info.

BRM - a mechanic's tale
By Dick Salmon. In collaboration with Anthony Carter.

Probably for the first time, criticism is leveled at both Louis Stanley, and the introduction of the H16 engine as contributory factors to the failure of British Racing Motors. Louis Stanley for his freeloading extravagance, and the rather foolish decision by the management to specify such a complicated and bulky power unit. More info.

Motor Racing – The Pursuit of Victory 1930-1962
By Anthony Carter.

Previously unpublished, stunning photographs from motor racing history, in a book that examines the many facets of Grand Prix racing before the dominance of television. A beautiful look at a fascinating time in motor racing.

More info.

Coming soon! Motor Racing – The Pursuit of Victory 1963 to 1972 By Steve Wyatt. In collaboration with Anthony Carter.
Picking up where the first volume left off, this is a beautifully illustrated journey covering a period of ten years in motor sport. Moving year by year, this book is written from the perspective of a passionate motor sport enthusiast of the day. Features many previously unpublished photographs. More info.

LE MANS PANORAMIC SLIDESHOW APPETISER

We've put together a slideshow on our website to show some of the awesome images from Le Mans Panormaic by Gavin David Ireland.

Click image to view slideshow

Coming soon from Veloce!

Le Mans Panoramic
By Gavin Ireland.
The Le Mans 24 Hours is the ultimate endurance race, and a classic feature of the motorsport calendar. This book captures the sheer scale and drama of this legendary race as never before, using specialist panoramic photography to give an unprecedented wide angle view of how the race is entered, watched, won, and lost. It is a timeless tribute to the Le Mans 24 Hours.

More info.

McQUEEN’S LE MANS CELEBRATED AT TOP GEAR LIVE VIP GALA

To mark the launch of the all new event at London ExCeL Top Gear Live is celebrating 40 years of the legendary racing film Le Mans at the exclusive Top Gear Live London Gala on 24 November 2011.

In celebration of the film’s 40th anniversary, which starred Hollywood legend Steve McQueen, guests will gain an unforgettable insight into Le Mans as they watch original clips, view stills and marvel at behind-the-scenes footage while sharing the memories of those who were there.

VIP guests will also be joined by Chad McQueen, son of the late Steve Mc Queen, and racing legends Derek Bell and David Piper, as they reminisce on the making of the film – where both risked their lives as they brought to life McQueen’s dream: to create the best, most realistic film about motorsport ever.

Le Mans, which used cutting-edge techniques and filmed largely live, featured the Porsche 917 and the Ferrari 512 and is remembered for its breathtaking footage from the actual 1970 race.

This iconic piece of cinematography, which featured 26 high performance cars, 41 stunt drivers and some 350,000 French speaking extras, uniquely captures the exhilarating atmosphere of arguably the greatest race on earth.

Guests will also have an exclusive opportunity to get up close to David Piper’s original 1969 Porsche 917 which will be on display at the gala event.

Tickets for the Top Gear Live London Gala are £425 + VAT per person, for further information or to make a booking contact the VIP Team on 0207 370 8341.

Coming soon from Veloce!
Le Mans Panoramic
By Gavin Ireland.
The Le Mans 24 Hours is the ultimate endurance race, and a classic feature of the motorsport calendar. This book captures the sheer scale and drama of this legendary race as never before, using specialist panoramic photography to give an unprecedented wide angle view of how the race is entered, watched, won, and lost. It is a timeless tribute to the Le Mans 24 Hours. More info.