Customer GTP vs. Factory GTP — What's the Difference?

The #5 Porsche 963 run by JDC-Miller is a "customer" GTP car — purchased from Porsche and operated independently, without the full factory engineering, data, and personnel support that Porsche Penske receives. Customer GTP cars must compete on equal mechanical terms but typically have fewer resources. Still, the same car gives JDC-Miller a real chance at class podiums.

2026 Race Entries

One Porsche 963 GTP customer entry and one LMP2 prototype

#5
#79

About JDC-Miller MotorSports

JDC-Miller MotorSports has been a fixture in IMSA endurance racing for many years, evolving with the series as the categories changed from DP (Daytona Prototype) to DPi (Daytona Prototype international) and now GTP (Gran Turismo Prototype). The team's longevity reflects consistent professionalism and adaptability.

Running entries in two different classes at the same race event requires enormous logistical capability — two separate crews, two engineering teams, two sets of spare parts, and careful allocation of resources across both entries. JDC-Miller handles this multi-class operation every season.

Their #5 GTP entry uses the Porsche 963 as a customer program — meaning they bought the car from Porsche rather than receiving it as part of a factory program. This is a legitimate path to GTP competition that several teams use to run at the sport's highest level.

LMP2 — A Class for Development

The #79 ORECA LMP2 entry provides opportunities for drivers who want to develop their prototype racing credentials. The LMP2 class uses a spec chassis (ORECA 07-Gibson) with a standardized Gibson engine, keeping costs more controlled than GTP while still delivering a serious prototype racing experience.

Young drivers, up-and-coming professionals, and experienced gentleman drivers all find a home in LMP2. The class provides genuine competition for category wins and championship points in a highly competitive environment.

The ORECA 07

The ORECA 07-Gibson is the dominant LMP2 chassis. Built by French constructor ORECA, it uses a 4.2-liter Gibson V8 producing around 420 horsepower. The car is designed to be fast, reliable, and equal — providing a level playing field where team strategy and driver skill determine the outcome.

2
Cars Entered
963
GTP Customer Car
LMP2
Second Class
IMSA
Long-Time Competitor
Multi-Class Racing Explained

One of IMSA's unique features is that multiple classes (GTP, LMP2, GTD Pro, GTD) race simultaneously on the same track. Cars from different classes regularly pass each other, requiring precise judgment from drivers. Slower classes must be alert to faster prototypes, and GTP drivers must manage traffic through the GT cars. It creates a chess match within a race.

Porsche Customer Racing

Porsche has one of the most active customer racing programs in the world. Through Porsche Customer Racing, independent teams can purchase the 963 GTP car, receive technical support, and compete against the factory Porsche Penske entries. This expands the Porsche brand presence on track and gives independent teams access to world-class machinery.