The Porsche 908/2
The Porsche 908/2, introduced in 1969 as a spyder (open-top) evolution of the 908, was a Group 6 prototype that transitioned to Group 5 (Sports) by 1975 under revised FIA rules. Designed for twisty circuits like the Targa Florio, it was lighter and more agile than the 908 LH (Long Tail) coupe used at Le Mans. Key specifications for the No. 3, a “Flunder” (flatfish) short-tail variant:
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Chassis: Aluminum tube frame, weighing ~650 kg, lighter than the original 908’s 680 kg.
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Engine: 3.0-litre Type 908 air-cooled flat-eight, producing ~350 bhp at 8,400 rpm. By 1975, some privateer 908s, including Ortega’s, used updated components (e.g., modified crankshaft, exhaust) but lacked the turbocharged upgrades of later 908/03s.
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Transmission: Five-speed manual, more reliable than the 908’s original six-speed used at Le Mans in 1968–1969.
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Aerodynamics: Short-tail “Flunder” bodywork with minimal drag, suited for Le Mans’ high-speed straights, achieving ~320 km/h (199 mph). The open-top design reduced weight but exposed drivers to elements.
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Tyres: Dunlop, typical for privateer Porsches.
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Body: Angular, boxy modifications by 1975, as noted in scale model descriptions, reflecting Ortega’s unique livery and sponsorship (e.g., Marlboro Ecuador).
The 908/2 was outdated by 1975, competing against newer Group 5 cars like the Porsche 911 Carrera RSR Turbo and Gulf-Mirage GR8, but its reliability made it a favourite for privateers like Ortega.
Drivers
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Christian Poirot (France, age ~40): A French gentleman driver with multiple Le Mans entries (e.g., 1972 Porsche 908/2, 21st overall; 1973, 23rd). Poirot was a reliable privateer, often racing with Ortega’s team, bringing local knowledge and endurance experience.
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Guillermo Ortega (Ecuador, age ~45): The team owner-driver, Ortega competed at Le Mans from 1973–1975 with 908/2s. His best result was 23rd overall in 1973 (No. 4, with Merello/Torredemer). His role balanced driving and funding the effort.
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Guy Cuinet (France, age ~40): A Le Mans veteran with limited documented success, Cuinet debuted in 1975 with Ortega’s team. His experience in French motorsport added depth to the lineup, though he was likely a pay-driver.
Guillermo Ortega Team
Guillermo Ortega, an Ecuadorian amateur racer and team owner, ran a privateer effort with Marlboro Ecuador sponsorship, focusing on Porsche 908s since 1973. The No. 3 was one of two 908/2s entered by Ortega in 1975, alongside the No. 4 (Ortega/Merello/Ranft, retired after 43 laps). The team lacked the resources of factory-backed squads like Martini Porsche or Gulf, relying on the 908/2’s proven durability and driver consistency to compete in the Sports class, which allowed modified production-based cars.
