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187 of 158 lots
Lot 187
1969 Zink-Volkswagen Z-8 Daytona Prototype
Estimate:
$150,000 - $200,000
Sold for
$75,000
Live Auction
Pebble Beach Auctions 2022
Description
Without Reserve

Fascinating One-Off, Volkswagen-Supported Prototype Racer
Finished 3rd in Class at the 24 Hours of Daytona in 1969
Extensive Restoration by Original Crewmember and Volkswagen Specialist Bob Houston
Accompanied by Racing Documentation, Spares, and 48-Page Book
A Well-Documented, Unique, and Little-Known Piece of Volkswagen Racing History

1,915 CC Volkswagen Type 3 Air-Cooled 4-Cylinder Engine
Twin 40 MM EMPI Carburetors
Estimated 150 BHP at 6,000 RPM
5-Speed Gene Berg-Modified Volkswagen Type 3 Gearbox
4-Wheel Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Front Volkswagen Type 3 Suspension
Rear Swing-Axle Suspension with Coil-Over Shock Absorbers and Z-Bar

This fantastic, one-off endurance sports-racer was conceived by Virginia-based Volkswagen dealer Hugh Heishman to showcase Volkswagen's new Type 3E electronic fuel-injected engine. According to the car's original driver Steve Pieper, Mr. Heishman struck a deal with Volkswagen to provide the drivetrain, suspension, and some financial support for the project. The car features a fiberglass body over a space-frame chassis built by race car constructor Ed Zink. This Z-8 Prototype debuted at the 24 Hours of Daytona in 1969, achieving an outstanding 3rd in Class and 18th Overall finish. At the 12 Hours of Sebring that same year, the Z-8 retired early, but at the 6 Hours of Watkins Glen, the car finished 2nd in Class and 16th Overall. The prototype's construction and racing history are documented in a beautiful 48-page book accompanying the sale.

Following the 1969 season, the Z-8 was sold without its engine to crewmember Bob Houston, who prepared the car for the 1970 SCCA B-Sports Racing season, achieving 1st Place Overall in the 2-Hour and 4-Hour events at Summit Point in West Virginia. After being sold to a subsequent owner, the Z-8 remained disassembled for some years, but was reacquired by Houston in 2012. He began an extensive five-year restoration, returned the car to its 1969 Daytona livery, and prepared it for vintage racing.

With its compelling and well-researched story, this is a significant opportunity to acquire a wonderful piece of Volkswagen racing history.

*Please note that this vehicle is sold on a Bill of Sale.