Conquering the Sahara Desert with 330 hp
Over the course of almost 10,000 kilometres, René Metge had to overcome many obstacles to fulfil his dream. Not least of which being the torrid heat of the desert and a brutal bone-dry course. Of the 313 cars that started the Paris-Dakar that year, only 98 made it to the finishing line. But finally, after 19 days of battling the competition – and the elements – he made it to Lac Rose with a winning time of 16:58'55". A racing experience and performance that will never be forgotten.
Driven by blood, sweat and tears
René Metge’s result came as a surprise to some, who didn't expect to see him rolling up to the starting line in his custom Porsche 911 in Paris on 1 January 1984. His automobile stood out from most of the rally cars present that day. No wonder: it was a modified 911, specifically designed to compete in the Dakar Rally. But this wasn't Metge's first rodeo; he had competed in the race before and knew what the course had in store for the racers. He knew that the custom-built 911 would help him to defy the conditions. That year, the rally’s route had been extended through Ivory Coast, Guinea, Sierra Leone and Mauritania to ‘enhance the dreams of those who stay behind.‘ Staying behind, however, wasn't Metge’s dream. He led the way instead, crossing the finish line on 20 January to seal the win. So, what does it feel like when a dream comes true? For René Metge: Dusty, sore and more than a little dehydrated.
The Art of Drive
Discover inspiring and educational insights from true visionaries of our time.
