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1987 Daytona 24 Hours: A Historic IMSA GTP Race

Introduction

The 1987 Daytona 24 Hours was an unforgettable race that marked the peak of the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) GTP era. The event showcased some of the world's most legendary drivers and teams, fierce competition, and an exciting finish. This article delves into the details of the race, providing a comprehensive overview of the results, standout performances, and historical significance.

The Race

The 25th running of the Daytona 24 Hours took place from February 1-2, 1987, at the Daytona International Speedway in Florida. The 24-hour endurance race attracted a diverse field of 83 cars, including 15 entries in the top-tier GTP class.

The GTP class featured a mix of prototypes and purpose-built race cars powered by high-performance V8 engines. Among the favorites were the Jaguar XJR-8, Porsche 962, and Nissan GTP ZX Turbo.

Race Results

After 24 hours of intense racing, the overall victory went to the Joest Racing team led by drivers Arie Luyendyk, Chip Robinson, Bob Wollek, and Klaus Ludwig. Their Porsche 962 completed 759 laps, covering a total distance of 2,596.36 miles.

The top five finishers in the GTP class were:

Position	Team	Car	Drivers
1	Joest Racing	Porsche 962	Arie Luyendyk, Chip Robinson, Bob Wollek, Klaus Ludwig
2	Bob Tullius Group	Porsche 962	Jochen Mass, Mauro Baldi, Bob Tullius
3	Brumos Racing	Porsche 962	Hurley Haywood, Al Holbert, John Paul Jr.
4	Bayside Disposal Racing	Porsche 962	Price Cobb, Bruce Leven, Scott Pruett
5	Dyson Racing	Porsche 962	Bob Dyson, Jim Adams, Geoff Brabham

Standout Performances

Several drivers and teams delivered exceptional performances throughout the race:

Arie Luyendyk: The Dutch driver took the lead in the final hour of the race and held on to secure the overall victory.
Porsche 962: The German manufacturer dominated the GTP class, with six of its cars finishing in the top ten.
Joest Racing: The German team prepared and managed the winning Porsche 962, proving their expertise in endurance racing.

Historical Significance

The 1987 Daytona 24 Hours marked the end of an era for IMSA GTP racing. The following year, the series merged with the Championnat du Monde des Voitures de Sport (World Sportscar Championship), leading to the adoption of new rules and regulations.

The race remains a benchmark in endurance racing history, showcasing the technological advancements, intense competition, and human endurance that characterized the IMSA GTP era.

Tips and Tricks for Endurance Racing

For aspiring endurance racers or fans, here are some valuable tips:

Prepare your car meticulously: Mechanical reliability is crucial in long-distance races.
Manage your tires and fuel: Conserve these resources to avoid unnecessary pit stops.
Stay hydrated and alert: Endurance races test physical and mental endurance.
Communicate effectively with your team: Clear and timely communication is essential for successful pit stops and race strategy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure a successful endurance race, avoid the following common mistakes:

Overdriving: Paced driving is more effective than pushing the car to its limits.
Poor pit strategy: Plan pit stops carefully to minimize time lost.
Lack of teamwork: Endurance racing requires seamless cooperation between drivers, mechanics, and engineers.

Conclusion

The 1987 Daytona 24 Hours was a captivating event that showcased the pinnacle of IMSA GTP racing. The victory of Porsche and Joest Racing cemented their place in endurance racing history. The race also serves as a reminder of the challenges, rewards, and enduring legacy of this iconic motorsport discipline.