US$ 25 Million Rejected: The Saga of Jerry Seinfeld’s Porsche 917K

Jerry Seinfeld's Porsche that couldn't be sold, even for $25 million
Jerry Seinfeld’s Porsche that couldn’t be sold, even for $25 million.

In one of the most memorable moments in automotive auction history, the 1969 Porsche 917K owned by Jerry Seinfeld — previously driven by Steve McQueen in the classic film *Le Mans* (1971) — did not find a new owner despite an impressive bid of $25 million at the Mecum auction in Kissimmee on January 18, 2025.

This Porsche 917K, painted in the iconic Gulf Blue and Orange colors and identified by chassis number 917-022, is much more than a racing car. It represents a piece of both motorsport and cinematic history. During the movie *Le Mans*, Steve McQueen drove this vehicle, which quickly became a symbol of the passion for speed and the golden era of motorsport.

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Porsche 917K. Photo: Wikimedia
Porsche 917K. Photo: Wikimedia

Jerry Seinfeld, the current owner, had already shown his emotional connection to the car before the auction. “There are objects that transcend material value. They have a soul, evoke memories, and tell stories,” he said in a promotional video, indicating that the car could not be sold, regardless of the bid.

Provenance and Exclusivity

The 917K has unparalleled provenance. Before Seinfeld acquired it in 2001 for $1.3 million, the car had already been owned by racing legends such as Reinhold Joest, Brian Redman, and Richard Attwood. In 2024, it underwent a complete restoration by Cavaglieri Restorations, returning it to the exact condition seen in the film *Le Mans*.

Engineering That Made History

Equipped with a 4,494 cc V-12 engine capable of producing 580 horsepower at 8,400 RPM, the Porsche 917K is not just a collector’s item. It is a milestone in automotive engineering. After its cinematic fame, the car also excelled in real-world competitions before becoming one of the most coveted vehicles among collectors.

Why Was $25 Million Not Enough?

Bruce Canepa, a renowned Porsche restoration specialist, estimated that the car could easily reach the $25 million mark. And indeed, that value was reached during the auction. However, the reserve price set by Seinfeld — kept confidential — was not met, and the comedian decided to keep the gem in his collection.
Seinfeld described the 917K as “the best car I’ve ever owned,” and for now, this icon of motorsport and cinema remains in his care.

The Future of the Porsche 917K

Although the sale did not go through, the auction further cemented the 917K’s status as one of the most valuable and desirable Porsches in the world. The automotive industry and collectors will be eagerly watching for the next appearance of this legendary car, whether at an auction or an exclusive exhibition.
Source: LuxuryLaunches. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.

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