It was at times little more than a rumour, for years its creators entirely denied its existence despite the publication of a few low quality images on various websites and magazines. But now a story of what have been can be told.

A full technical description of the 9R3 can be found in the latest edition of Racecar Engineering (available now – click on the cover to buy and read instantly).
Porsche started work on all new Le Mans Prototype at some point during the 1998 racing season with the intention of having a full works team at Le Mans in 2000 and beyond. Early decisions were made to adopt an open top design and an initial engine selection was made.

The design was conducted using CATIA software, meanwhile early wind tunnel testing was conducted at 1/3rd scale (above). Note the different nose shape and lack of intakes either side of the chassis, also the model features louvres on the wheel arches.
(a look at the rear of the 9R3)

The designs were at least at first worked around the twin turbo 3.2 litre flat six engine used in the 1998 Le Mans winning Porsche GT1. But as work developed on the new car it was increasingly felt that the flat six was overweight at 230kg and under-powered.
The Porsche engineers then turned to another secret project, a stillborn Formula 1 V10 engine. The ten cylinder was designed to replace the very poor V12 which was at first destined for the Moneytron Onyx F1 team but found its was into the back of the Arrows FA12 (and was promptl...