Porsche 917 Flat-12 5.4L Engine

This Porsche 917 engine is a 5.4-liter flat-12 stamped 917/10-004, a unit likely paired with chassis 917/10-004 when new. While its precise in-period use is unclear, it stands as a true example of Porsche’s twelve-cylinder engines, developed in Weissach under Hans Mezger and regarded among the most formidable race engines of the era.

The engine was part of Vasek Polak’s collection and became one of several Porsche and BMW racing engines stolen from his estate in 2000. Recovered in 2006, it was inspected by Alwin Springer—former head of Porsche Motorsport North America and longtime Vasek mechanic—at Pelican Parts in El Segundo, California. His report confirmed the engine had racing history, had been recently overhauled, and showed no internal damage. The inspection noted that the valves, pistons, and cylinders had not been replaced, but all twelve combustion chambers appeared healthy under borescope inspection, with only light carbon buildup and no scoring of the cylinder walls. Springer concluded the unit could be made operational with routine servicing and replacement of select parts.

Following its recovery, the engine was sold through a charity auction organized by Pelican Parts on behalf of the Vasek and Anna Maria Polak Charitable Foundation. Acquired by collector Benoit Couturier in 2006 and subsequently sold to the current owner in 2009.

Today the engine remains largely as inspected in 2006. It is displayed on a rolling stand with a clear case, presenting as an extraordinary display centerpiece as well as a largely complete candidate to serve as a running spare.

This is an exceedingly rare opportunity to acquire a genuine Porsche 917 twelve-cylinder engine with documented provenance.

Inquire via CabiglioGarage@gmail.com