This is like asking which of your children is better. They both have their good qualities! In theory, sequential will build boost in a more linear fashion, and that’s why Porsche went with this method for the 959. Back in the ‘80s, sequential turbocharging was the height of turbocharging technology. The F40 was an example of comparatively “old school” turbocharging. Today, we have variable vane turbos, wider use of twin-scroll turbos, etc. so you don’t see the sequential method used very often anymore.
Didn’t see part two of the question... Again, it depends on what you’re looking for. A small turbo, or more cylinders feeding one turbo, will provide low-end torque but “run out of steam” in the higher RPMs, resulting in a disappointing power drop-off. A big turbo, or fewer cylinders feeding one turbo, will provide high-end power but have considerable turbo lag. A sequential system provides both a “small” and a “big” turbo to solve this very problem.
As a package, the 959 was more complete !! More usable, better built quality, more space (even rear seat) , all terrain and weather 4WD, luxurious interior with leather and more innovative !! But, despite all its flaws, the F40 was built for pure driving thrills, thus it remains today more desirable !!
Some throwback photos from the First Drive article on the 959 that originally appeared in the July 1986 issue of Road & Track. Includes some very interesting information and impressions: https://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/first-drives/a26605/drive-flashback-1986-porsche-959/ Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login
1986 Chicago Auto Show debut of the 959 prototype cutaway car. It's interesting that the narrator notes: "Porsche will have a U.S. version ready for enthusiasts in about 18 months." We are still waiting...
And the third 959 entered as a service vehicle finished sixth overall. If not for Roland Kussmaul sacrificing his entry (and his health) at a muddy river crossing for the benefit of his teammates, he could have won it overall rather than finish sixth. Metge is one of the unheralded giants of Porsche rally racing.
Some 959 content from this weekend's Rennsport Reunion VI. Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login
I have no proof, and can't find any other documentation, but I know for a fact that Porsche showed an even earlier "prototype" at the Chicago Auto Show, at least a year or two before 1986. Was NOT on/in Porsche's official area (was just kinda stuck off in a corner) and the only description on the car was "Gruppe B." Know that, because I SAW it as a kid.
Negative. That car was a DNF in the 1985 Paris Dakar for Jacky Ickx. The nose crash damage from hitting a rock was repaired in 2014/2015. It is definitely battle scarred though
Yes, there is someone with an extensive list of the 959 owners, VIN's, much more info. Not public though.
Early 959 styling development starting with a standard 911 body-shell Image Unavailable, Please Login
Early styling concept. The men in dark red overalls don't look particularly impressed yet Image Unavailable, Please Login
Pre-production prototype testing with massive on-board telemetry equipment. Don't touch any of my knobs! Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login