Dan Curry (#14) 1985 Porsche 962.

Victory Lane Magazine: October 2013, Volume 28, No. 10 – Driver/Car Interview

Vintage sports car racing is a showcase for the cars of our past. It’s a chance to see our favorites race again. For me it’s the Porsche brand, and in particular the Porsche 962. There’s just something about the shape, the design, and the visual balance that gets it right. In my opinion, it’s the perfect sports car. So, of all the Porsche 962’s, Al Holbert’s (#14) Lowenbrau Special is my Number One favorite. I can still recall seeing it race in period back in the 80’s. It was, and is, Iconic.

It’s current owner and driver is Dan Curry, from Tewksbury, New Jersey. Dan was kind enough to speak with me for a few minutes. He purchased the car at the Gooding Auctions on Amelia Island in March of 2012. He noted that he went specifically for this car. Dan stated that the car was fully restored by Heritage Motorwerks of North Carolina, a few years prior to his purchase. He added that he relies on Gunnar Racing of West Palm Beach, Florida for support at the track.

Dan advised that racing great Al Holbert had a stable of two Porsche 962 and won the 1985/1986/1987 IMSA Championships. The two cars consisted of chassis 103 (used mainly for endurance events) and this car, the HR1 (used for shorter distances). Dan noted that the 103 chassis won 15 races, and was the winningest Porsche 962. The HR1 had the second most wins with nine. Dan stated that Holbert purchased the tub for the HR1 from Porsche and built it through license as his own. One of the distinctive features of the HR1 was the air intake scoop behind the cockpit.

Dan stated he enjoys racing in the vintage events, because the emphasis is on the cars and the atmosphere is a bit more laid back. He intends to keep racing the car and having it on display for others to enjoy. He added that the car was in the Heritage Display at this year’s Daytona 24 hour race.

Dan described Watkins Glen as his favorite track, having raced here many times before, but never in the 962. At the time we spoke it was early on Saturday and the dampness still hung in the air. He was unsure as to when he would be out. But, once the weather improved for the afternoon sessions, he took to the track. Seeing the car at speed really brought back some great memories.

Automotive engineering and the science of aerodynamics has evolved over the years. The cars of today may be “technically” better and more advanced, but aesthetically the Porsche 962 era does it for me. I feel very fortunate to have seen the car up close and to spend a few moments speaking with Dan. It’s not everyday you see a sports car racing icon.

————————————————–   TJ2013