09.07.2026Memories of an exceptional driver: Bob Wollek’s Porsche 956

In 1983, Bob Wollek won the German Racing Championship (DRM) driving a Joest Racing Porsche 956, successfully defending his title in what was then Germany's premier racing series. At the same time, the Frenchman enjoyed international success with the legendary Group C race car from Zuffenhausen. Following an opening victory in the World Endurance Championship at Monza, Wollek and his teammate Stefan Johansson finished second in the second race at Silverstone.

WERK83, a label from ck-modelcars, has released models in scale 1:18 of the two Porsche 956s—one from the German Racing Championship and the other from the 1,000 Kilometers of Silverstone. These authentic models serve as a high-quality tribute to an outstanding driver in Porsche’s motorsport history, representing just a fraction of Bob Wollek’s multifaceted talents and achievements.

The Strasbourg native initially pursued a professional career in skiing. However, an accident ended that path and simultaneously marked his transition to motorsport in the late 1960s. Wollek began by competing in rallies and touring car races, but soon ventured into Formula 2 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The French endurance classic would become a pivotal element of his career. Yet, despite an incredible 30 starts and numerous laps led, Wollek never managed to realize his great dream of winning Le Mans. He often missed out on the ultimate triumph by the narrowest of margins, as evidenced by four second-place finishes and two additional podium results.

Wollek was all the more successful in other major endurance racing events. He won the 24 Hours of Daytona four times and also claimed overall victory at the 12 Hours of Sebring. The Frenchman achieved virtually all the major successes of his illustrious career with Porsche. Even well past the age of 50, Wollek remained fast and fit enough to compete in major, high-profile races.

The 2001 season was intended to be his last behind the wheel, after which he was set to take on a role in Porsche’s motorsport management. However, that never came to pass. During the 12 Hours of Sebring, Bob Wollek was struck by a motorhome while cycling after Friday’s practice session. He died at the age of 57. Ironically, cycling was a key part of Wollek’s fitness regimen; he would even occasionally travel to his big race at Le Mans by bicycle.

Porsche 956 KH #8, 2nd place 1000km Silverstone 1983 (Wollek, Johansson), 1:18 WERK83, RRP €79.95, item-no.: W18036003

Porsche 956K #1, Winner Norisring / DRM Champion 1983 (Bob Wollek), 1:18 WERK83, RRP €79.95, item-no.: W18036005

Products

	Porsche 956 KH #8 2nd 1000km Silverstone 1983 Wollek, Johansson 1:18 WERK83	71,96 €
	Porsche 956K #1 Winner Norisring DRM Champion 1983 Bob Wollek 1:18 WERK83	71,96 €