The Porsche 917K Driven by Steve McQueen in Le Mans
at Mecum Kissimmee 2025
In August 2024, Mecum shocked classic car hobby with their announcement that the Porsche 917K (chassis No. 917-022), would be offered for sale in their 2025 Kissimmee auction. This was one of three 917Ks that were purchased by Steve McQueen’s production company for use in his 1971 movie, Le Mans. The light blue and orange Gulf livery #20 was the “Hero Car” – the one that McQueen drove in the movie.
After the filming of Le Mans, which was credited for featuring some of the best race footage on the silver screen, it continued its distinguished provenance with actual time on the racing circuit, changing owners several times over the years. Finally in 2001 it was purchased by its current owner, comedian Jerry Seinfeld, also known for his extensive Porsche collection. While in his possession, Seinfeld commissioned a multimillion-dollar renovation to bring this 917K back to its starting condition in the iconic movie.
Going into the auction the big question was how much is it worth? Interestingly, this isn’t the first famous movie car sold by Mecum. In the 2020 Kissimmee auction, Mecum sold the 1968 Ford Mustang from the McQueen movie Bullitt for $3.74 million. Like the Bullitt Mustang, this Porsche is widely recognized in the car community both for its role in the movie and its association with mega star, Steve McQueen. Adding further to chassis #917-022’s appeal is its documented post movie history, where it successfully campaigned in actual endurance races. Still, determining a price is very qualitive since it is the only one of its kind with a celebrity association factor which, in itself, inflates the car’s value.
When the Porsche rolled on to the crowed auction block in prime time, driven by Steve McQueen’s grandson, Chase McQueen, it was standing room only. Everyone wanted to be part of the historical moment and grab a cell phone shot of the excitement in the room.
Bidding started at $15M and climbed to $25M before stalling. If it had met the reserve price at this number, it would have been the highest priced car ever sold by Mecum Auctions. However much to the disappointment of the audience, the hammer fell without a sale (the reserve was not met). Nevertheless, this will be remembered as a significant moment in auction history and a reminder that these sales are not scripted but they are actual businesses transactions, involving real money. One take away though, we now know the Hero Car is worth at least $25 million.
All prices on sold vehicles include sales commission.
Go here for more on the 2025 Mecum Kissimme auction.
