Porschefest at the Simeone Museum

History of Porsche and the Porsche 917 with noted author Jay Gillotti on September 14


Jay Gillotti, author of the acclaimed “Gulf 917,” the detailed history of one of the greatest racing cars of the 20th century, will be at the Simeone Museum on September 14th to launch his new book on the history of Porsche, “Porsche Decades.” Gillotti will discuss “Gulf 917” along with his new book, “Porsche Decades.” Come and celebrate the rich and colorful history of Porsche’s all-conquering 917.

11:00 | Porsche 917 History & Legacy


An overview of the Porsche 917, including the origins of the 917 project along with the design, homologation and development.  Gillotti will also review the competition history for both endurance racing and the Can-Am.  Performance milestones, the “Le Mans” film and the legacy of the 917 will be presented as well.  

2:00 PM | Introduction to Porsche History

Gillotti will provide an overview of Porsche family and company history.  This will include both pre-World War II and post-war projects and products.  We will discuss the type numbering system and car names, basic model histories and significant racing cars.  The presentation is ideal for new Porsche owners and newer PCA members but all are welcome if you would like to start learning more about the history of Porsche.  

Immediately Following

We will have plenty of time for Q&A and Gillotti will be signing his new book “Porsche Decades” which covers this same ground in more detail. A number of copies of “Porsche Decades” will be available at the museum gift shop along with a very limited number of copies of “Gulf 917”.

Get ready to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Ferdinand Porsche’s birth, which will arrive in September, 2025.

*This event is free with any general admission ticket purchase and for all Simeone Museum members and volunteers. Visit this link for tickets https://www.eventbrite.com/e/porschefest-at-the-simeone-museum-tickets-1000392229087and more information about the museum.

Hours and Info

6825 Norwitch Drive
Philadelphia, PA 19153
215-365-7233
Tuesday – Friday 10AM through 6PM
Saturday – Sunday 10AM through 4PM
Closed Mondays and Major Holidays

About the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum

Located in Philadelphia, PA, the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum is one of the world’s greatest collections of racing sports cars. Through our theme, “The Spirit of Competition”, we celebrate the history and evolution of these magnificent machines.

Assembled over 50 years by Dr. Frederick Simeone, the Museum contains over 75 historically significant cars including Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, Bugatti, Mercedes, Jaguar, Bentley, Porsche, Aston Martin, Corvette, Ford, and more.

Guest Reviews

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