Porsche celebrates 50 years of 917 racer with this gorgeous concept

This year, Porsche is celebrating the 50th anniversary of their legendary 917 race car. Making its world debut 50 years ago at the Geneva Motor Show, the 917 would go on to win numerous races throughout its career including the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1970 and 1971. In order to celebrate the occasion, Porsche has revealed a new concept car which pays homage to the first 917 to win Le Mans in 1970.

Simply called the 917 Concept, Porsche did not disclose any details regarding the tribute vehicle expect that it is a concept study. At the same time, only one photo of the concept was provided, showing us its retro livery combined with modern-day supercar styling.

From the lone photo, the 917 Concept appears to have some similar styling cues as the 918 Spyder. Specifically, the shape of the headlights together with the multi-spoke wheel design is nearly identical to that of Porsche's hypercar. Gone is the original 917's bulbous body as well, now replaced by a sleek, low and long look of modern racers. However, it still sports the red-white livery and the number 23, the same number worn by the first Le Mans-winning 917.

We'll likely know more about modern 917 Concept once it makes its official debut on May 14 at the Porsche Museum during a special exhibition. It will be on display alongside 14 other exhibits which include ten other 917 models, including the original 917-001 which debuted at Geneva 50 years ago.

Curiously, Porsche did not race the first 917 in any racing series. Instead, it was kept as a presentation vehicle, repainted in numerous colors for various occasions. With 917-001 having recently completed restoration, it will soon be presented at the Porsche Museum in its original 1969 colors. It will be there together with the 917 Concept until September 15.