Limited Edition Legend: Porsche 356 Carrera Zagato Sanction Lost

⛔Rare GEMS💣 - The Porsche 356 Carrera Zagato Coupé 'Sanction Lost' is a rare gem in automotive history, with only two examples ever built. The story of these cars traces back to 1957 when Porsche racing driver Claude Storez approached Italian coachbuilder Zagato.

The Porsche 356 Carrera Zagato Coupé 'Sanction Lost' (in pictured model was built from a 1961 Porsche 356 B Coupe) is a rare gem in automotive history, with only two examples ever built. (Picture from: Silodrome)

His aim was to create a lighter, more aerodynamic body for his 1957 Porsche 356 Carrera Speedster. Storez, known as a "Prince Among Racers," had a remarkable career in the 1950s, showcasing his talent in various European and North African races. Despite driving smaller cars, he often outperformed more powerful vehicles, leaving a lasting impression on the racing world.

American car collector Herb Wetanson's initiative to revive the Carrera Zagato's beautiful styling ensured that the model, which would have been lost to history, returned for a very limited production run with Zagato. (Picture from: Silodrome)

The collaboration between Storez and Zagato marked the beginning of a journey that spanned over six decades, culminating in the completion of the final "Sanction Lost" example in 2017. This project was a testament to Storez's vision and Zagato's craftsmanship.

The interior has just the bare essentials to keep weight down for racing, with a steering wheel, shifter, three pedals, and the essential gauges. (Picture from: Silodrome)

The original Porsche 356 Carrera Speedster modified by Zagato featured a new alloy body that not only enhanced its aesthetics but also improved its performance on the track. Its debut race at the Reims circuit stage of the Tour de France showcased its speed and agility, earning Storez a second-place finish.

Each of 18 cars would be built using a Porsche 356 as their starting point just like the original, however only three of the cars would have the Porsche Carrera engine fitted – just like Storez. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Tragically, Storez's promising career was cut short in a fatal crash at the Thillois hairpin during a race at Reims in 1959. The car involved in the accident vanished thereafter, sparking speculations about its fate.

Zagato dubbed the cars "Sanction Lost" and produced a total of 18 units, comprising 9 open-top Speedsters and 9 coupes, with only one Speedster and two coupes receiving Porsche Carrera engines. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Fast forward to the 2010s, when American car collector Herb Wetanson approached Zagato with the idea of reviving the Porsche Zagato Speedster. This initiative led to the creation of 18 replicas, including nine Speedsters and nine Coupes, meticulously crafted using period photographs and original concept drawings.

One of the Carrera Zagato's most memorable features was its twin red fins on the rear, which were added to enhance high-speed stability. (Picture from: Silodrome)

One of these replicas, built from a 1961 Porsche 356 B Coupe, stands as a tribute to Storez's legacy. Its Zagato body, red leather front seats, and meticulous details capture the essence of the original concept. The car comes with a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity and a collection of historical documents, adding to its allure.

In essence, the Porsche 356 Carrera Zagato Coupé 'Sanction Lost' represents the convergence of passion, innovation, and timeless design in the world of classic automobiles. Its resurrection pays homage to a racing icon and continues to captivate enthusiasts with its unique blend of history and performance. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ZAGATO | SILODROME | CLASSICDRIVER | MOTOR1 ]

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