A 1978 Porsche Safari 911, an exceptionally rare and iconic vintage car valued at approximately ₹5 crore, was tragically destroyed in a fire on Sunday near Hampi. The vehicle was participating in the prestigious Explore Karnataka Historic Drive 2024, a rally showcasing 40 classic cars from India and abroad. The fire, which completely gutted the car, has sent shockwaves through the vintage automobile community.
The incident occurred around 9 AM when the Porsche Safari 911 was traveling as part of the rally convoy. The occupants of the car, a couple, managed to safely exit the vehicle before it was engulfed in flames. Despite the swift arrival of firefighters, the car could not be saved.
The Porsche Safari 911 from 1978 is not just a car—it’s a piece of motoring history. This particular model is a rally-prepped version of the classic Porsche 911, built to endure grueling off-road conditions. Known for its raised suspension, reinforced chassis, and distinctive roof rack for long rally expeditions, the Safari 911 is a rare gem among vintage car enthusiasts.
Globally, Safari-spec Porsche 911s are highly sought after, often fetching upwards of ₹10 crore at international auctions, depending on their condition and provenance. In India, where such vintage cars are even rarer, the value of a well-maintained Porsche Safari 911 typically ranges between ₹4 crore and ₹5 crore. These cars are considered appreciating assets, with their value continuing to rise as they become increasingly scarce.
Explore Karnataka Historic Drive 2024
The Explore Karnataka Historic Drive 2024, organized by the Federation of Historic Vehicles of India (FHVI), brought together 40 vintage cars—20 from India and 20 from abroad—for a journey through Karnataka’s most scenic locations. The rally covered destinations like Hampi, Anjanadri, and the Tungabhadra Dam, offering participants and onlookers a glimpse into the golden age of automobiles.
Participants stayed at the luxurious Evolve Back Resort in Kamalapur, where the Porsche Safari 911 was one of the highlights of the event. The car’s rally-ready modifications, coupled with its immaculate restoration, made it a crowd favorite.
A Heartbreaking Loss for Enthusiasts
The destruction of this ₹5 crore Porsche Safari 911 is an irreplaceable loss. Classic cars like this are more than mere vehicles—they are works of art, meticulously crafted and preserved to reflect the ingenuity of their era. The Safari 911’s unique rally pedigree and engineering brilliance made it one of the rarest vintage cars in India.
While the occupants escaped unharmed, the incident highlights the challenges of maintaining and operating classic cars during long-distance rallies. Despite this tragic loss, the Explore Karnataka Historic Drive continues to celebrate the spirit of vintage automobiles, albeit with a somber reminder of their fragility.