Discover the Story Behind the Porsche 917/20 "Pink Pig"

Explore the unique design, history, and cultural legacy of the Porsche 917/20 Pink Pig, an iconic one-off racing car that left a lasting impression.

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It was odd, awkward, and absurdly pink. And yet, the Porsche 917/20, nicknamed the “Pink Pig,” etched itself into motorsport history as one of the most iconic racing cars ever built. Unique in every sense, this experimental prototype fused aerodynamic innovation with playful design, leaving a legacy that transcended its short time on the track.

Developed in partnership between Porsche and French engineering firm SERA under aerodynamics expert Robert Choulet, the 917/20 was a bold attempt to combine the stability of the 917K with the low drag of the 917LH. The result was a wide-bodied, curvaceous machine that stood out immediately for its unusual proportions and distinctive presence.

But what truly immortalized the car was its livery. After Martini Racing declined to apply its traditional colors to the prototype, Porsche’s designer Anatole Lapine proposed something outrageous: a pink paint scheme complete with butcher-style meat cuts labeled on the body. Thus, the “Pink Pig”—or “Die Sau”—was born, a visual statement as much as a racing machine.

The car made its first appearance during test runs ahead of the 1971 24 Hours of Le Mans. In the actual race, it qualified 7th and climbed to 5th before retiring due to a braking accident. Though it didn’t finish, it captured the public’s imagination with its bold look and unorthodox style.

Beneath its porky exterior was a 4.9-liter V12 engine delivering 600 hp, propelling the car to speeds of up to 240 mph (386 km/h). Weighing just 909 kg, the Pink Pig was built for speed and agility. Yet, what made it legendary was not just performance—but personality.

Over the years, the Pink Pig became a cult icon. Its legacy was powerfully revived in 2018, when Porsche ran a 911 RSR in matching livery at Le Mans. Driven by Christensen, Estre, and Vanthoor, the car won its GTE Pro class—a victorious tribute to its pink predecessor.

Beyond racing, the Pink Pig has become a star of exhibitions, collectibles, and merchandise. Porsche now offers an entire product line inspired by the design, from posters and models to wallets and even piggy banks. Fans love it for its boldness, irony, and flair.

The Porsche 917/20 Pink Pig is more than a quirky prototype. It is a symbol of creativity in motorsport engineering—a fusion of art, performance, and a touch of madness. In the world of Porsche, it remains one of the most recognizable, loved, and discussed cars of all time.