The 1960 Porsche 718 RS 60

Overview

The 718 W-RS introduced Porsche to Formula 2 and sports car racing through a vehicle accommodating multiple competition formats. Produced in 1961, this variant employed a 1.5-liter four-cam flat-four engine optimized for racing applications. The W-RS designation referenced its dual-purpose racing capability, participating in both Formula 2 single-seater competitions and traditional sports car racing events. The limited production of approximately 10 examples established notable rarity among vintage racing enthusiasts.

The 718 W-RS demonstrated Porsche's versatility in developing vehicles meeting diverse competition requirements, establishing the company's presence across multiple racing series simultaneously. The flexible vehicle architecture enabled participation across varying regulatory frameworks, extending Porsche's competitive reach and marketing visibility.

Engineering & Development

The 718 W-RS employed a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cam flat-four engine producing approximately 145-160 horsepower depending on competition configuration and fuel specification. The spaceframe chassis construction maintained lightweight overall mass enabling competitive performance in both single-seater and sports car formats. The transmission incorporated a four-speed manual unit with direct mechanical linkage.

The suspension employed double-wishbone front and independent rear configuration, with adjustable spring rates and damper calibration accommodating diverse competition demands. The aerodynamic design enabled rapid bodywork changes between Formula 2 single-seater and sports car racing configurations. The braking system employed ventilated aluminum-alloy drums with mechanical actuation.

The engine development prioritized reliability and durability alongside performance, as the multi-purpose application required sustained operation across extended competition distances. The fuel injection mapping optimized combustion efficiency across varying competition parameters.

Market Variants

The 718 W-RS appeared exclusively as a works racing vehicle, developed specifically for Porsche's competition programs. The multi-purpose design enabled participation across Formula 2 and sports car racing series simultaneously. The limited production established exclusivity and rarity among vintage racing competitors.

The interior minimized equipment, with configuration varying based upon intended competition format. Both single-seater and sports car configurations incorporated essential instrumentation and safety equipment.

Significance

The 718 W-RS demonstrates Porsche's engineering flexibility and versatility in developing vehicles meeting diverse competition requirements. The multi-purpose design established that effective racing vehicles accommodate varying regulatory frameworks through clever engineering rather than excessive specialization. The W-RS established precedent for future Porsche racing vehicles spanning multiple competition series.

The 718 W-RS proved that competitive performance achieves through adaptable platform architectures supporting diverse competition applications.