The Legendary Andial 935L: America’s Porsche Racing Icon
The Andial 935L stands as a testament to American ingenuity in the world of Porsche racing. This period-correct 935 boasts an impressive racing pedigree that has left an indelible mark on motorsport history. Built in 1982 by the visionary trio of Alwin Springer, Arnold Wagner, and Dieter Izenhofer – the founders of Andial – this stunning machine was designed to compete in the IMSA and the newly formed GTP class.
A Leap Ahead of Its Time
What makes the Andial 935L particularly noteworthy is its timing. This American-built Porsche predated Porsche’s own 962 model for IMSA competition by several years, showcasing the innovative spirit of U.S. racing engineers. The 935L quickly proved its mettle on the track, cementing its place in racing lore.
The 1983 24 Hours of Daytona: A Twist of Fate
The 1983 24 Hours of Daytona stands out as a pivotal moment in the Andial 935L’s history. Originally, the driver lineup for Henn’s Swap Shop Racing 935 included:
- Preston Henn
- Bob Wollek
- Claude Ballot-Lena
However, fate had other plans. When racing legend A.J. Foyt’s Nimrod NRA/C2 retired from the race, an unexpected opportunity arose. Despite never having driven a 935 before, Foyt stepped in to drive a significant portion of the race.
"A.J. Foyt, who’d never driven a 935, jumped in and helped win the race in this very car."
This last-minute driver change led to an extraordinary victory, adding another layer to the already rich tapestry of the Andial 935L’s racing history.
The Andial 935L: Then and Now
Over four decades have passed since its Daytona triumph, yet the Andial 935L continues to captivate racing enthusiasts. Today, the car finds itself in the capable hands of Gunnar Jeannette, the Principal of AO Racing.
Performance Specs of the Andial 935L
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | Twin-turbo flat-six |
| Power Output | Estimated 700+ hp |
| Weight | Approximately 2,000 lbs |
| Top Speed | 200+ mph |
The Rennsport Experience
At the recent Rennsport Reunion, Jeannette shared insights into what it’s like to pilot this flame-spitting Daytona winner. The experience of driving such a historically significant vehicle is nothing short of extraordinary.
Key Features of the Andial 935L
- Period-correct modifications
- Twin-turbo setup for explosive power
- Lightweight construction for agile handling
- Iconic "Moby Dick" inspired bodywork
The Legacy of Andial
Andial’s contribution to Porsche motorsport cannot be overstated. The company, whose name is derived from the first two letters of its founders’ names (Andy Leech, Dieter Inzenhofer, and Alwin Springer), became synonymous with high-performance Porsche tuning and racing.
"In 1982, Alwin Springer, Arnold Wagner and Dieter Izenhofer, the creators of Andial, built this gorgeous 935 to compete in IMSA and the new GTP class."
Their work on the 935L showcased American engineering prowess and helped pave the way for future collaborations between U.S. teams and Porsche.
The Enduring Appeal of the 935
The 935 model, in its various iterations, remains one of the most celebrated racing Porsches. The Andial 935L, with its American touch, stands out as a unique chapter in this storied lineage. Its continued presence at events like Rennsport Reunion demonstrates the timeless appeal of these machines.
What Makes the 935L Special:
- American-built innovation
- Unexpected Daytona victory
- Flame-spitting spectacle
- Bridge between 935 and later GTP cars
Conclusion: A Living Legend
The Andial 935L is more than just a racing car; it’s a rolling piece of motorsport history. From its unexpected Daytona victory with A.J. Foyt to its current life as a show-stopping track day star, this American-built Porsche continues to captivate fans and drivers alike.
As it roars around tracks today, spitting flames and turning heads, the Andial 935L serves as a thrilling reminder of a golden age in sports car racing. It stands as a testament to the skill of its creators and the enduring legacy of Porsche in motorsport.
