Through the Decades: Winning Machines at Le Mans

Auto technology has changed an enormous amount through the years largely thanks to this 24hr endurance classic. Here's a look at some of the machines that made a mark at this challenging, 88-year-old circuit and subsequently, on the auto industry as a whole.

1923 Chenard et Walcker Sport

1928 Bentley 4½ Litre

1937 Bugatti Type 57G Tank

1949 Ferrari 166MM

  1957 Jaguar D-Type

1967 Ford GT40 Mk. IV

1971 Porsche 917K

1978 Renault Alpine A442B

1988 Jaguar XJR-9LM

1998 Porsche 911 GT1

2008 Audi R10

2011 Audi R18

I was excited to learn that Porsche, the manufacturer with the most wins at Le Mans and one of my favorite marques, announced yesterday a return to the mighty P1 Class in 2014.