Rediscover the Porsche LMP 2000: A Historic Revival at Weissach's 25th Anniversary Roll-Out
Embarking on a nostalgic journey to 1999, the Porsche Heritage and Museum team recently revived the LMP 2000 prototype at the Weissach Development Centre's test track. Initially conceived to conquer the Le Mans, budget constraints unexpectedly halted the project post-completion. After a brief 78 kilometres of testing, the vehicle was shrouded and stored, untouched for over two decades. The recent revival event reunited original team members, with Allan McNish, the same driver from 1999, taking the wheel.
At the heart of conversations at Weissach Development Centre is the LMP 2000. Although it never raced, it remained a focal point for the team for 25 years. On the 25th anniversary of its initial test runs, the car was meticulously prepared to run again, with McNish re-enacting the 1999 drive. The reunion was sentimental, bringing together key figures like Norbert Singer, Thomas Laudenbach, and Herbert Ampferer, reflecting their enduring connection to this unique project.
The LMP 2000 is more than just a car. It symbolises a chapter in personal stories for those involved, embodying an unfulfilled yet cherished racing dream. Aimed initially to dominate the LMP900 class at Le Mans, it featured a naturally aspirated 5.5-litre V10 engine designed for power and agility, epitomising Porsche’s racing ambitions.
"Allan McNish's ecstatic remarks at the recent test drive underscored the time capsule nature of the event, blending memories with current achievements. Despite never leaving the testing phase, the LMP 2000 continues to inspire and capture imaginations, symbolising not just technological prowess but also the relentless spirit of its creators.
The journey to reactivate the LMP 2000 involved meticulous restoration by the Porsche Heritage and Museum team, focusing on mechanical and historical accuracy. This process rekindled the car’s mechanical spirit and reconnected the team with a pivotal moment in Porsche’s racing history. With the successful reactivation, the LMP 2000 now serves as a living exhibit of innovation and unfulfilled potential, continuing to tell its unique story to new generations.
