Porsche 959

According to documentation available with the car, 139 left Germany and was imported to Japan in January 1990. At the time, Japan’s economy was experiencing explosive growth, and as a result, nationals had an insatiable appetite for European exotics and supercars. For the next 25 years this example remained in Japan and, when sold in 2015, its Japanese export paperwork from December of that year shows that it had accumulated 12,936 kilometers or approximately 8,038 miles.

This 959’s first stop upon arrival in the United States was to Canepa of Scotts Valley, California in January 2016. Notes with the car indicate it was sold later that month and that in April the speedometer was converted by Palo Alto Speedometer from metric measurements at 12,956 kilometers or approximately 8,050 miles. It was during this phase of ownership that chassis number 139 was treated to Canepa’s “Gen. 3” engine enhancements boosting the already impressive 2.85-liter flat-six’s power output. It has also been fitted with 959 S style “Canepa S” coil over suspension removing the hydraulically adjustable suspension that can often prove problematic after 35 years. Additionally, while at Canepa’s workshop it received their air conditioning and heater updates, upgrades to the headlights, and fresh brake pads. It should be mentioned that this 959 also retains numerous original parts removed during these modifications, most notably its muffler, steering wheel, suspension components, and more are offered as part of the sale.

In 2017 this 959 received an Arizona title with notes on file indicating that it returned to Canepa for an annual service in September 2018 that included a brake flush and replacement turbocharger. In 2020 it visited Porsche Chandler, a Porsche Classic Partner, for a multi-point inspection with an engine oil change, transmission fluid change, and a fresh battery. In November 2021 the car returned to Porsche Chandler with 8,502 miles for its annual service and to remedy a coolant reservoir leak. Two coolant tanks were shipped to Canepa for restoration to ensure a leak-free system. Upon return, the tanks were installed, the system was filled, bled, and pressure checked with normal operation noted. In 2022 this 959 received a full paint protection film treatment and in late 2023 the car once again visited Porsche Chandler for four fresh Michelin tires, a brake fluid inspection, engine oil change, and a multi-point inspection.

The Porsche 959 is hailed as the groundbreaking supercar of the 1980s, and rightfully so, propelling Porsche to unprecedented peaks by introducing a collection of pioneering technologies bundled within a spectacular, luxurious package. Uncommon is the opportunity to acquire a well-serviced, documented, 959 with discreet Canepa engine upgrades, full paint protection, and fresh servicing along with its rare multi-piece toolkit. Properly imported in 2016 outside of the now famous 25 year import restrictions, this 959, infused with motorsport heritage, eagerly anticipates its next caretaker.