Kremer Racing Developed Unique Porsche CK5 Group C Car
Kremer Racing designed a distinctive Group C endurance racing car, the Porsche CK5, in the early 1980s, featuring a new chassis and original aerodynamic solutions.
The German racing constructor Kremer Racing developed a unique Group C endurance racing car, the Porsche Kremer CK5, between 1982 and 1985. Departing from competitors who modified existing models, Kremer Racing opted for a completely new tube frame chassis for their design.
The CK5 project involved collaboration with Ekkehard Zimmermann of DP Motorsport. The car utilized a new tube frame that combined elements from the Porsche 908/3 and 936, and incorporated a roof. This design also leveraged Kremer's prior experience with the 917 K81 and 936 models.
The car featured a wheelbase extended by 20 centimeters compared to contemporary rivals, utilizing suspension from the Porsche 917/10 Turbo and braking systems from the 935 K3/K4. It was powered by a 2.8-liter twin-turbo engine producing between 630 and 720 horsepower, paired with a five-speed gearbox.
Engine and transmission placement prevented the use of ground effect aerodynamics, common in Group C at the time. A notable design element was a fin atop the engine compartment, which improved airflow to the rear wing and reduced drag, particularly on high-speed straights. Company founder Manfred Kremer noted this fin originated as a solution to prevent breakage of wide rear wings but proved to be a significant aerodynamic enhancement.
Kremer Racing built two CK5 chassis, which competed between 1982 and 1985. The cars had an empty weight of 877 kg and could achieve speeds exceeding 300 km/h.