The 1969-1971 Porsche 917 LH

Overview

The 935/78 Moby Dick introduced radical aerodynamic development to Porsche's Group 5 racing program, employing a 3.2-liter twin-turbocharged flat-6 engine producing approximately 750 horsepower. Produced exclusively in 1978, this single vehicle represented Porsche's ultimate expression of Group 5 technical regulations, pushing aerodynamic and powertrain development to extreme limits. The nickname "Moby Dick" referenced the vehicle's enormous whale-like dorsal fin, an aerodynamic element generating massive downforce at extreme velocities.

The 935/78 dominated Group 5 racing competition, establishing performance records and lap times that remained unbroken for extended periods. The vehicle's innovative aerodynamic design influenced racing and road car development throughout the subsequent decades, establishing principles of downforce generation and drag management applicable to modern motorsports. The single vehicle produced represents the pinnacle of 935 development.

Engineering & Development

The 935/78 employed a 3.2-liter twin-turbocharged flat-6 engine producing approximately 750 horsepower, utilizing sequential turbocharger operation and aggressive boost calibration. The aluminum-alloy monocoque chassis provided structural rigidity necessary to withstand the extreme aerodynamic forces generated during circuit operation. The transmission incorporated a five-speed manual unit with direct mechanical linkage.

The suspension incorporated double-wishbone front and rear configuration with adjustable coil springs and telescopic dampers, enabling race engineer tuning for specific circuit demands. The braking system employed large ventilated rotors and mechanical calipers, managing thermal loads from sustained high-deceleration scenarios. The active aerodynamic elements included the famous dorsal fin, adjustable rear wing, and optimized body surfaces generating substantial downforce at extreme velocities.

The distinctive whale-fin extended vertically from the rear section, generating aerodynamic forces that stabilized the vehicle during high-speed operation. The extended bodywork and aerodynamic package created an extremely narrow cockpit with minimal interior space, prioritizing aerodynamic efficiency over driver comfort.

Market Variants

The 935/78 represented a singular works racing vehicle developed specifically for Group 5 competition, incorporating the most advanced aerodynamic and mechanical technologies available to Porsche's racing department. The vehicle competed at international racing series, establishing dominance through superior aerodynamic engineering and powertrain development. No customer racing variants were produced, as the 935/78 represented a purely works-developed experimental platform.

The interior incorporated racing bucket seats and minimal equipment, prioritizing competition functionality over road car comfort. The fuel capacity accommodated extended racing distances supporting endurance racing formats.

Significance

The 935/78 Moby Dick establishes Porsche's mastery of aerodynamic engineering, demonstrating that radical design innovation delivers measurable competitive advantages in high-speed racing. The vehicle's distinctive appearance and performance achievements established it as one of the most memorable racing cars ever produced. The aerodynamic principles developed through the 935/78 program influenced subsequent Porsche road cars, establishing that race-derived technology translates effectively to production vehicles.

The 935/78 proved that extreme performance achievable through fundamental engineering excellence and willingness to pursue radical design concepts, establishing that racing serves as a development laboratory for innovative technologies applicable beyond motorsports.