Wanderlust

Category: Remasters

  • Emory Motorsports Introduces the World’s First All-Wheel Drive Porsche 356 “C4S”

    Emory Motorsports Introduces the World’s First All-Wheel Drive Porsche 356 “C4S”

    Dubbed the ‘AllRad,’ the Newest Emory Outlaw Pairs a 356 Coupe Body with a 911 All-Wheel Drivetrain to Create Most Capable 356 Ever Made

    [source: Emory Motorsports]

    NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA — Recognized for building iconic 356 Outlaws® for the last three decades, the Emory family’s automotive legacy began in 1948 when Rod Emory’s grandfather, Neil Emory, founded Valley Custom Shop in Burbank, CA. Located just a few miles from where Emory Motorsports currently creates its stunning Porsche creations, Neil earned a reputation for sleek, stately, European-esque channeled and sectioned coachwork on the American cars of the day. It’s in that same refined spirit that Emory Motorsports presents the effortlessly cool 356 C4S, a stout AWD build with a novel mix of 356 and 911 technology. The result is a truly one-of-a-kind ride, pairing 911 performance with the quintessential 356 Emory Motorsports aesthetic.

    “Our build philosophy has always been to bring the best of certain eras together in our cars,” comments Emory Motorsports Co-Founder Rod Emory. “The Emory 356 C4S is really the first ‘RS’ that we’ve built, while being the world’s first AWD 356. Our goal was to create a special Porsche that never existed, but should have. The end result is that the 356 C4S really presents the highest performance level possible in a 356. The car’s owner was so pleased with the car he calls it his ‘AllRad 356.’”

    Commissioned by a discerning client who wanted to drive the Emory 356 C4S to East Coast ski areas in the winter, the decision was made to artfully combine a 1964 Porsche 356C body with an all-wheel-drive 1990 911 (964) C4 chassis. The meticulous four-year build began by laser-scanning the 1964 body and the 1990 chassis. Points of intersection were analyzed in the CAD environment with decisions about how to marry the two made in the virtual and real-world spaces. 

    Emory Motorsports’ goal was to retain all of the original suspension pick-up points from the 911, but two challenges existed: the differences in wheelbase and rear track from the two Porsche platforms separated by 26 years. The decision was made to retain the 356’s wheelbase, which required shortening the 911’s center tunnel. The 356’s steel body was then subtly widened to match the 911’s rear track. Adjustable KW coil-over shocks mate perfectly to the 911’s architecture and provide optimal ride quality and control.

    For the powertrain, Emory Motorsports retained the C4’s G64 5-speed AWD manual gear box. The driveline now incorporates a rally-style differential bias with independent front-to-rear and side-to-side manual torque control. The disc brakes are standard 964-issue with plenty of stopping power. The custom 16×7 black powder-coated wheels are pure Emory Motorsports ingenuity, inspired by wheel designs from different eras.205/60R16 Pirelli Ice Zeros give superior all-weather grip.

    The 356 C4S is powered by the proprietary Emory-Rothsport “Outlaw-4” engine. Rod Emory and renowned engine builder Jeff Gamroth of Rothsport Racing collaborated over the better part of a decade to create an original four-cylinder cast-aluminum block, based on a dry-sump engine design. The new engine incorporates the best features of three distinct iterations of the 911 powerplant. Custom billet cam housings, camshafts, and crankshafts are designed to work with OE Porsche engine components. 

    Dual Weber 48 IDA carburetors feed this twin-plug engine, rated at 200 horsepower. This 2.4-liter Outlaw-4 employs a crank-fire ignition, and full-flow lubrication with remote filter and cooler. Exhaust flows through custom headers and a stainless-steel muffler. 

    The carefully tailored bodywork includes a widened rear section, a flattened hood with its handle deleted, a louvered deck lid, and body-colored rally lights. A competition fuel filler leads to an 18-gallon GT FuelSafe fuel cell. Yellow headlight lenses and a Ray Dot mirror round out the distinctive exterior features of this build. Body color is Graphite Blue Metallic (graphitblaumetallic; metallic uni; M5G / A7; Porsche) an OE 2016 Porsche color.

    Careful observers will note the car’s titanium roof rack. Per the client’s request, the rack was conceived in CADto accommodate carrying bikes, skis, or other gear on road trips. The one-off drip-rail clamps were 3-D printed in chemically pure titanium, then welded to the custom-fabricated rack by the car’s owner. His fabrication skills extend from his titanium bicycle manufacturing (Independent Fabrication, https://ifbikes.com).

    On the inside, Emory Motorsports injected Porsche racing inspiration. The RS-style driver’s seat provides functional contrast to the Speedster-style passenger seat. The interior is elegantly rendered in green leather, and occupants are held fast by 4-point competition harnesses. A removable roll cage provides additional safety for spirited driving conditions.

    Other interior details include green square-weave carpet with rubber floor mats. Tactile interfaces include a MOMO Heritage steering wheel, a 911 shifter with Outlaw shift knob, and a Tilton pedal assembly. Total curb weight for this rally-inspired package is 2,150 pounds. For more information on custom Porsche 356 Emory Outlaws and Emory Specials, please visit EmoryMotorsports.com.

    About Emory Motorsports

    Founded in 1996 by Amy and Rod Emory, Emory Motorsports initially provided turnkey prep, repair and logistics for vintage Porsche racers. Simultaneously doing custom street-car builds, the company quicklybecame recognized as one of the world’s leading Porsche 356 customization and works car restoration resources.

    Rod Emory’s automotive roots date to 1948, when his grandfather Neil Emory founded Valley Custom Shop. An innovator in body sectioning and channeling, Neil Emory created the bodywork for the infamous land-speed record-holding SoCal Streamliner. Rod’s dad, Gary, created the first Baja Bug while working as parts manager at Chick Iverson Porsche in the 1960s. He later founded Parts Obsolete and became the go-to source for hard-to-find OEM Porsche parts.

    Rod acquired his grandfather’s sheet metal skills and echoed his dad’s enthusiasm for design, applying his unique skill set to the Porsche 356 and early 911 models. Purists initially labeled the Emorys as ‘outlaws’ when they attempted to enter shows in the 1990s with subtly customized cars that retained their Porsche DNA, but combined OE parts in unique ways. The Emorys happily championed the Porsche ‘outlaw’ movement, going so far as to create and protect the widely recognized “356 Outlaws®” brand. Since then, Emory Motorsports has created some of the most stunning Porsche 356s ever built. The company also meticulously restored what is now regarded as the most historically significant Porsche ever, the 356/2 SL “Gmund” that took a class victory at the 1951 24 Hours of Le Mans – Porsche’s first victory in international competition.

  • Emory Motorsports Creates Ultimate Outlaw Early Porsche, the 356 RSR

    Emory Motorsports Creates Ultimate Outlaw Early Porsche, the 356 RSR

    • At Nearly 400 Horsepower And Less Than 2,000 Pounds
    • This Is The Most Insanely Hot-Rodded 356 Ever Built

    [source: Emory Motorsports]

    NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA — When car enthusiasts hear Batmobile and German car in the same sentence, they normally think of the BMW 3.0 CSL. Emory Motorsports’ latest creation will update that association to Darth Vader and Porsche 356.

    Third-generation car customizer/renowned early Porsche expert Rod Emory pulled a lifetime of automotive expertise together to create an exotic 1960 Porsche 356 RSR. As a grandson of one of Los Angeles’s first hot-rod shop owners, the son of the Baja Bug creator, and a former Top Fuel mechanic and competitive off-road racer, Rod was able to leverage every ounce of his automotive DNA in this builder’s dream project.

    “It started back in 2012 when I had my friend Greg Macey sketch a concept I had had in mind for quite some time,” Rod Emory says. “The idea was to create an homage to the Porsche works 935 cars of the 1970s while retaining our Emory 356 Outlaw styling. Greg did phenomenal sketches, which we posted on Instagram. MOMO CEO Henrique Cisneros reached out and asked what it would take to turn the concept into reality. Once we zeroed in on the details, we had a second rendering done by Avedis Djinguelian to serve as a more representative style guide to the finished product. The actual build time was about four full years.”

    As with other Emory Outlaw and Emory Special builds, the project began with the perfect donor car: a 1960 356B T5 coupe whose roof was undamaged but the rest of the body panels were destined for scrap. 

    With fresh experience combining a 356 body and 911 chassis in the world’s first AWD 356 (the Emory/Independent Fabrication 356C4S project), Rod’s crew knew where to nip/tuck to combine the best of the two Porsche sportscar iterations, some 35 years apart in age. The result is a seamless super-performance concoction whose 356 silhouette is artfully preserved, thanks to its factory greenhouse and doors. This car is an example of Emory Motorsports’ highest-performance “RS” designated cars.

    All of the car’s now-removable nose and tail bodywork is hand-formed aluminum, as is the aluminum deck lid with custom stainless hinges and one-piece aluminum bonnet with oil-cooler air outlet. To relieve wheel-well air pressure, Emory Motorsports added louvers and front fender stand-offs. Other custom air-management modifications include stainless mesh grilles for the cooling ducts and intercooler air inlets in the steel section of the rear fenders. Final exterior touches are modified Porsche 911 rocker panels and Plexiglas side and quarter windows. The body color is a custom blend of PPG hues that Rod Emory calls Meteorite Matte Metallic.

    To merge the Porsche unibodies, the difference in wheelbase was essentially split (85 mm) with a clever redistribution of the length. However, all of the stock 964 suspension pick-up points were retained. Also, the engine frame section was tailored to a length appropriate for a 356-correct air-cooled four.

    Speaking of which, the exotic Emory-Rothsport twin-turbo Outlaw-4 engine produced a whopping 393 horsepower on Rothsport Racing’s engine dyno – incredible in a car that weighs only 1,950 pounds. This proprietary engine block, developed by and only available in Emory Motorsports builds, is a collaboration between Rod Emory and Jeff Gamroth of Rothsport Racing. The “Outlaw-4” engine’s architecture is based on the dry-sump Porsche 3.6L powerplant from the 1990s. To get the crazy power, Rothsport Racing created a purpose-built fuel-injection system with a one-off intake plenum and twin-plug distributor, managed by a Motec computer. The RSR race-inspired twin-turbo system uses two Garrett GT28R ball-bearing turbos with Turbosmart wastegates, backed by custom intercoolers. A dash-mounted 935-style boost control knob allows dialing up as much as 1.2 bar boost from the turbos. 

    Other Outlaw-4 details include a full-flow oil system with remote filter and cooler, plumbed with XRP lines and fittings. Also, Rothsport Racing fabricated a custom 3-2-1 stainless-steel exhaust system, which ends with a muffler-less straight pipe. The fuel system includes an 18-gallon Fuel Safe fuel cell, cradling a Radium FCST fuel delivery system.

    The 356 RSR’s suspension was designed around the extreme power-to-weight ratio. Ride is controlled by KW coilovers with 1.5 inches of on-demand lift to negotiate driveway aprons. Eisenlohr Racing Products front camber plates and mono-ball mounts make for additional adjustability. Flatter cornering is made possible by Tarett Engineering swaybars. Also, the 964 non-power rack-and-pinion steering and brakes were retained, albeit with custom Coleman Racing rotors and hats. 

    Competition components were one of the project’s springboards, but street-legality was the goal. Rod Emory has an affinity for the MOMO 5-spoke wheels with centerlock hubs from the Porsche works 935. Wheels like those were at the top of his must-have list. One bespoke set of MOMO Heritage center-lock wheels were created just for this car; fronts are 17×7 and the rears are 17×8, wrapped in Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires.

    The MOMO influence continues into the interior. Rod Emory is a huge fan of the 911 RSR MOMO Prototipo steering wheel, and MOMO recently unveiled a distressed version for a historic effect – complete with a quick-release hub. The adjustable Tilton pedals feature custom MOMO billet pads. The shifter knob is also a Porsche 917-inspired MOMO unit atop a Rothsport Racing shifter. Seats are custom and are modeled after the 911 RSR. They are covered in fire-retardant Spanish Red Veltex fabric with custom-embroidered MOMO logos. Occupants are kept in place by easy-adjust and quick-release 6-point MOMO competition harnesses. Safety is also improved by a custom Emory Motorsports removable rollcage.

    The 356 RSR has a few other cues that celebrate Porsche’s competition history. The amber fiberglass footboards and dash caps were inspired by the 917 and 935. The car’s marine-grade rubberized Hardura flooring is the same material used in Porsche GT cars. The floormat’s backing has sound-absorbing insulation.

    “People had strong reactions when we debuted the 356 RSR at Luftgekühlt this past May,” Rod Emory said. “It was too over-the-top even for some of the forgiving purists – something we’re used to after being branded Outlaws by the period-correct owners decades ago – but the car definitely attracted a lot of attention and now serves as a benchmark for what we can do with Porsche’s extremely flexible platforms.”

    For more information on Emory Motorsports, please call 971.241.7017 or visit EmoryMotorsports.com or @rodemory.

    MOMO 1960 PORSCHE 356 RSR SPECIFICATIONS

    Vehicle: 1960 Porsche 356B T5 coupe / 1990 Porsche 964 C2

    Engine: Emory/Rothsport Outlaw-4 2.4L boxer

    Power: 375-400 hp @ 1.2 bar

    Transaxle: G50/03 five-speed manual transmission

    Differential: Quaife limited-slip

    Suspension: KW adjustable coil-overs with hydraulic lift, Eisenlohr Racing Products upgrades, Tarett Engineering sway bars

    Chassis: 356 wheelbase lengthened 85 mm 

    Wheels: 17×7 MOMO Heritage front, 17×8 MOMO Heritage rear

    Tires: Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R

    Body: Extensively modified with removable aluminum nose and tail sections

    Paint: PPG Meteorite Matte Metallic

    Accessories: MOMO distressed Prototipo steering wheel, MOMO 5-point competition harnesses, MOMO shift knob, Tilton pedal with MOMO pads, custom seats, amber fiberglass interior panels and air-management ducting, removable rollcage, Fuel Safe fuel cell, Radium FCST surge tank, XRP plumbing

    About Emory Motorsports

    Founded in 1996 by Amy and Rod Emory, Emory Motorsports initially provided turnkey prep, repairs, and logistics for vintage racers. When Rod Emory began doing custom builds, the company eventually evolved into one of the world’s leading resources for Porsche 356 customization and restoration.

    Rod Emory’s automotive roots date to 1948, when his grandfather Neil Emory founded Valley Custom Shop. An innovator in body chopping and channeling, Neil Emory created the bodywork for the infamous land-speed record-holding SoCal Streamliner. Rod’s dad, Gary, created the first Baja Bug while working as parts manager at Chick Iverson Porsche in the 1960s. He later founded Porsche Parts Obsolete and became the go-to source for hard-to-find replacement parts.

    Rod applied his grandfather’s sheet-metal fabrication skills and dad’s Porsche obsession and design sensibility to the 356 models. Porsche purists labeled the Emorys as ‘Outlaws’ when they dared attempt to enter shows in the 1990s with subtly modified cars that combined OE parts from different models. The Emorys happily became champions of the Porsche Outlaw movement. Since then, Emory Motorsports has stunningly rejuvenated more than 180 Porsche 356s and a few early 911s. The company also meticulously restored what is now regarded as the most historically significant Porsche ever, a 356 SL Gmund that took a class victory at the 1951 24 Hours of Le Mans – Porsche’s first international race win.

    Emory Motorsports Partners

    Birdwell Beach Britches: https://www.birdwell.com

    Dannmar Equipment: https://dannmar.com

    Gaudin Porsche of Las Vegas: https://www.gaudinporschelv.com

    Gunnar Racing: http://www.gunnarracing.com

    Levrack: https://levrack.com

    Mechanix Wear: https://www.mechanix.com/us-en

    Miller Welders: https://www.millerwelds.com

    Milwaukee Tool: https://www.milwaukeetool.com

    MOMO: https://momo.com/en-us/heritage/

    Mothers: http://www.mothers.com

    Period Correct: https://periodcorrect.com

    Porsche Design: https://www.porsche-design.us

    Pirelli: https://www.pirelli.com/tires/en-us/car-light-truck/home

    Rothsport Racing: http://www.rothsport.com

    Rustoleum: https://www.rustoleum.com

    Vans: https://www.vans.com

    Vintage Electric Bikes: https://www.vintageelectricbikes.com

  • Mil-Spec Automotive Introduces New Special Edition $300,000 HUMMER H1

    Mil-Spec Automotive Introduces New Special Edition $300,000 HUMMER H1

    [Source: Mil-Spec]

    Auburn Hills, MI – Known for engineering high-grade H1 designs for drivers looking to conquer anything, Mil-Spec Automotive is proud to present their newest supertruck. As the summer road trip season heats up and adventurers look for safe, fun ways to experience the best of the open road and beyond, Mil-Spec Automotive’s $300,000 large format rig features all the high-performance and interior magic that the company has become synonymous for crafting.

    Designed to make an impression on and off-road, the newest Mil-Spec Automotive H1 is powered by a specially tuned 500-horsepower/1,000 lbs.-ft. LBZ 6.6L Duramax diesel engine mated to an Allison 6-speed automatic transmission. Mil-Spec Automotive also incorporated a special heavy-duty drivetrain configuration into the build, which includes redesigned front and rear drive shafts, carrier bearings, motor mounts, and transmission crossmember. For more stopping power, Mil-Spec Automotive integrated Wilwood’s 6-piston high performance brake package. 

    The bespoke H1 features several new first-time upgrades offered by Mil-Spec Automotive. To increase drive time, the truck incorporates a new 30-gallon extended range aluminum fuel cell that is included alongside a fully integrated steel skid plate to make this the ideal rig for longer off-road excursions. The truck features an exclusive four-door hardtop configuration in a blacked-out onyx paint scheme. The Deep Sky Black Kevlar-infused polyurethane exterior coating is perfectly offset with semi-gloss black powdercoated accents.

    All mechanicals were upgraded with elite Mil-Spec Automotive hardware. A ceramic underbody and engine bay coating were installed to provide insulation and thermal protection for the cabin. For further protection, heavy-duty rocker panel protection skid plates were added on to the truck’s T6 hardened aerospace-grade aluminum body. The new Mil-Spec Automotive H1 also includes the Bumper Tow Package with an integrated two-inch ball hitch, electrical plugs, and a reverse camera to assist with trailer alignment and hook-up for hauling. 

    Another impressive element featured is the exclusive Baja Suspension Package. This extraordinary system practically doubles wheel travel to an incredible 13 inches to increase high-speed dampening and off-road handling. Among the upgraded components in this package are longer coil springs and remote-reservoir shocks, stronger front and rear billet balljoints, and an upgraded sway bar designed for long travel. Mil-Spec Automotive’s newest H1 rides on 38×13.50R20 Toyo Open Country M/T tires to further improve overlanding capabilities.

    Partnering with Formawerx, Mil-Spec Automotive integrated stunning new super-premium components throughout the cabin interior with a brilliant custom-machined steering wheel that matches an all-new car key design. The cabin interior is further upgraded with the company’s exclusive Executive Interior Package, highlighted by onyx colored Nappa leather featuring distinctive quilted stitching, and custom lumbar supports. 

    Other fabulous interior touches abound, including a custom designed gauge layout featuring anodized black bezels and striking imperial measurements. The cabin doors include specially designed billet aluminum door lock pulls finished in black powder-coat. Mil-Spec Automotive’s newest H1 also features a premium JL Audio sound system. 

    This new Mil-Spec Automotive H1 was built for a client, and Mil-Spec is accepting new orders for production for any interested customers. For more information on the bespoke Hummer builds from Mil-Spec Automotive as well as their other vehicles, please contact the company at 248.430.5150 or www.milspecauto.com.

  • HIMALAYA Presents Special Edition 70th Anniversary Defender

    HIMALAYA Presents Special Edition 70th Anniversary Defender

    HOLLYWOOD, SC – Known for superbly reimagining vintage trucks with modernized performance and engineering, HIMALAYA is proud to present their newest Defender; a special-edition custom build inspired by the 70th anniversary of one of the world’s most celebrated 4×4 designs. With the legendary Land Rover Defender regarded as one of the most heralded trucks of the 20th century, HIMALAYA’s special custom edition 70th anniversary rig features all the iconic aesthetic elements collectors adore alongside vastly improved performance from the original vehicle.

    “Over its seven decades of existence, the Defender has unequivocally become one of the best trucks ever made with a design that collectors all over the world have appreciated driving on and off-road,” comments HIMALAYA President Greg Shondel. “As the Defender celebrates seventy years of existence, HIMALAYA wanted to craft a custom truck that pays homage to Land Rover’s 70th anniversary Defender design while also minimizing some of the compromises to performance and comfort when it comes to classic restorations.”

    Outfitted with a brawny new 525-horsepower V8 engine, the new HIMALAYA 70th anniversary custom Defender also includes a stout new powertrain for significantly improved handling. HIMALAYA went to great effort to elevate the driving experience on every level, imbuing the British rig with American power in the form of a General Motors LS3. The enhanced powerplant provides the vintage Defender with some American muscle, producing 425 lbs./ft. of torque at 4600 RPM for drivers looking to conquer anything while traveling off the beaten path. The truck also rides on a special lowered sport-tuned suspension to further enhance the off-road driving experience.

    For the special custom 70th anniversary truck, HIMALAYA complemented the powertrain with a modern new six-speed automatic transmission for further driving convenience. The custom Defender also features an improved handling package complete with a sturdy roll cage, Fox shocks, as well as front and rear skid plates. HIMALAYA’s special edition truck rides on 18-inch alloy wheels while wearing BF Goodrich A/T KO2 all-terrain tires.

    In addition to re-engineered performance and drivability, HIMALAYA made sure that other modern technological comforts are present throughout the vehicle’s stunning interior, including an interactive touch screen dashboard complete with Bluetooth, USB, and HDMI entertainment capabilities. High intensity LED markers, heated seats, and special heat-reducing window tints are among the many modern comforts for available for drivers to enjoy.

    With pricing available upon request, the 70th anniversary edition by HIMALAYA is the perfect opportunity for enthusiasts seeking a completely one of a kind Defender driving experience.

    For more information on the 70th anniversary Defender custom build and the company, please contact HIMALAYA at (800) 956-9481 or online at drivehimalaya.com.

  • Expedition Motor Company’s Latest G-Wagen Pays Homage to Air-Transported Military Reconnaissance 4X4s

    Expedition Motor Company’s Latest G-Wagen Pays Homage to Air-Transported Military Reconnaissance 4X4s

    A Reborn 1991 Geländewagen 250GD Ascends To Greater Heights After A 1,000+-Hour Revival

    [source: Expedition Motor Company]

    FRENCHTOWN, NJ – Specialists in Mercedes-Benz ex-military “Wolf” Geländewagens, Expedition Motor Company has unveiled its latest custom build. This 1991 250GD Wolf follows Expedition Motor Company’s emphasis on cabriolet models. It underwent more than 1,000 labor hours in the company’s shop, emerging in original Mercedes-Benz white paint with a black soft-top.

    “This latest Wolf demonstrates our highest level of refinement to date,” says Expedition Motor Company Founder Alex Levin. “Our frame-off restoration/improvement process returns the vehicles to like-new condition while adding modern creature comforts and conveniences. The new White Wolf includes side hooks that are not for aesthetic purposes. In military service, Wolfs were sometimes transported by helicopters, so we bolstered the hooks with interior steel reinforcements per the original configuration.” 

    Expedition Motor Company now revives and personalizes the classic Wolfs, particularly the 1990-1993 250GD models – characterized by 2-door bodies with fold-down windshields and convertible tops. For the new White Wolf, Expedition Motor Company began with their standard bumpers and black cabriolet top. Then a few exterior upgrades were added to augment standard equipment such as better-than-factory LED headlights. Aside from the air-lift hooks, the most noticeable exterior accessories are fender-mounted indicators protected by metal guards and the snorkel kit. The rear bumper features lower lamp guards. An optional jerry-can holder with black cannister is another upgrade. Also, the tires are premium BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/As.

    For the interior, Expedition Motor Company created a bespoke yet simple theme. Upholstery and front door panels are marine-grade brown vinyl, complemented by diamond-pattern floormats from Expedition Motor Company’s swatch book of fabrics. The rear cargo area features oak slats, which carry over to the rear side panels. Comfort was improved with a new Vintage Air HVAC system with retro-appearing dash controls for subtlety. Similarly, the VDO entertainment-system head unit looks period-appropriate but includes Bluetooth, USB, and device-input features. A hidden Retro Antenna system eliminates the traditional body-mounted antenna wand. These upgrades raise the White Wolf to a total cost of $92,150, a slight increase over Expedition Motor Company’s $90,000 base price.

    As with all Expedition Motor Company vehicles, the White Wolf underwent a meticulous build process. The base vehicle – imported from overseas military sources – was totally stripped down to the frame. The ensuing multi-month re-birth began with inspection of all disassembled components. Each is then rebuilt, refinished, or replaced as necessary.

    Specifics include media-blasting major components down to bare metal to remove any corrosion. Rust-inhibiting primer is then applied. Select parts such as the frame are finished in durable powdercoating for enduring corrosion-resistance. Other metal parts such as body panels and drivetrain-component housings are professionally finished by Expedition Motor Company with premium automotive-grade paint. Following accepted concours-restoration practices, all rubber and soft parts such as hoses, bushings, and body mounts are replaced with new components. Similarly, the suspension is revived with all-new Eibach springs and modern-tech Bilstein monotube shocks to optimize ride quality both on the highway and during any off-pavement excursions.

    For Wolf powertrains, Expedition Motor Company remains true to the Mercedes-Benz pedigree by retaining the original numbers-matching components. The Wolf’s factory Mercedes-Benz OM602 2.5L inline-five diesel enjoys a reputation as one of the most reliable engines of all time. As with all Expedition Motor Company builds, the White Wolf’s existing engine was disassembled, cleaned, refinished, and rebuilt with new gaskets, seals, belts, pumps, and whichever internal components need to be replaced. The engine is then tested in the shop and then on the road prior to customer delivery. Similarly, the factory 711.7 5-speed manual transmission was disassembled, cleaned, and inspected prior to being rebuilt. A new clutch, seals, and throw-out bearing are part of each job. The transfer case and locking differentials received the same meticulous attention.

    The White Wolf represents the current state of the art in bespoke 250GD restorations. Although Expedition Motor Company specializes in the 2-door/cabrio decommissioned Wolf models, the company can also source hard-top versions for customers as desired. For more information, please contact Expedition Motor Company, (267) 714-4112, or visit expeditionmotorcompany.com.

  • Emory Motorsports Reveals 1959½ Porsche 356 Speedster

    Emory Motorsports Reveals 1959½ Porsche 356 Speedster

    “Transitional” Speedster Brilliantly Illustrates The Why and The How of  Rod Emory’s Porsche 356 Philosophy

    [source: Emory Motorsports]

    NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA – Rod Emory has refined Emory Motorsports’ ‘Outlaw 356’ recipe by paying close attention to detail and by staying true to the principles of form and function. The secret ingredient (and their de facto mission statement) is the preservation of Porsche DNA, whatever the cost. All of the company’s four distinct “product lines” utilize this mandate, but differ according to the desired user experience. This unique 356 Speedster was built to experience the sun in the grandest Outlaw tradition.

    “Each 356 that we put back on the road is a piece of Porsche history, and we work very hard to preserve that creative spark,” comments Rod Emory of Emory Motorsports. “The best part of my work is bringing new life to cars that might otherwise be destined for the junkyard.” The donor car for this particular project is a case in point: a 356 coupe whose roof was seriously compromised in an accident. Because the roof was not repairable, It provided Emory Motorsports a superb canvas for developing a truly one-of-a-kind 356 Outlaw that echoes everything enthusiasts have come to adore about the classic Speedsters of the era.”

    While Emory Motorsports encourages the preservation of ‘survivor’ Porsches, ones that have been carefully looked after, Rod also enjoys bringing a variety of deserving 356 basketcases back to life in brilliant fashion. This 1959½ “Transitional” Speedster succinctly illustrates this concept. 

    Porsche enthusiasts know that the ‘Speedster’ model was made between the years of 1954-1958, being replaced by the Convertible D in 1959. When Rod Emory gained a client looking for an open car concept, he knew that making a Speedster-like car from a coupe was entirely feasible. The perfect donor car came along and Emory Motorsports’ skilled team of artisans and fabricators set about fusing the ‘Outlaw’ and ‘Special’ design categories that Emory has championed for its clients through the years.

    Because the 1956-61 A and B coupe sans roof lends itself nicely to a “Speedster treatment,” Emory Motorsports hand formed a racing-inspired aluminum tonneau cover and headrest fairing, perfectly mated to the integral headrest hoop and cage. Other exterior touches include body-hugging bumpers and an unusual reverse-louvered deck lid. Typical bonnet modifications include deleting the handle and adding fuel-filler access for the custom 18-gallon tank. The period-correct  Aquamarine Metallic paint (aquamarinmetallic; metallic UNI; 5607; Porsche)was applied by Little Shop of Kustoms in Desert Hot Springs, California. This Outlaw enjoys a race-bred finishing touch, the iconic hand-painted Mobil Pegasus on the front fenders. 

    The Emory 1959½ “Transitional” Speedster is also significantly more powerful than its original 1600cc forbears. The proprietary Emory-Rothsport Outlaw-4 engine, co-developed with former Porsche GT racing crew chief Jeff Gamroth of Rothsport Racing, is standard equipment. This 4-cylinder, 2.4-liter displacement engine, fed by Weber 48 IDA carbs, delivers 205 horsepower. Spark is issued via an MSD ignition box through a bespoke twin-plug distributor, while the dry-sump engine is cooled in part by 14 quarts of oil in a 911-style full-flow arrangement. An aluminum-case 901 4-speed transmission delivers exhilarating speed for this lightweight platform.

    The Outlaw Speedster’s chassis (and every Emory 356 Outlaw) was specially prepared to make maximum use of more than triple the standard power. Rear suspension was updated with modified 901-style IRS. Adjustable Koni dampers control the unsprung weight, and a pair of sway bars limit body roll during spirited cornering. The brakes were also upgraded to custom rotors and calipers that have 911-level stopping power. Power gets to the ground via 195/65R15 Dunlop SP 5000 tires on 15×5 Tecnomagnesio wheels, which are tastefully finished in satin-black powdercoat with brushed wheel hubs.

    The Speedster aesthetic calls for a pristinely spartan interior which is clean and functional. Charcoal square-weave carpet gives the Hydes red leather upholstery additional pop. Speedster-style seats and dashboard seamlessly combine the old with the new. A 904-style triple gauge with speedo and tach provide a few extra data points to keep the driver informed while on the road. The interior is rounded out with black knobs and escutcheons, a Derrington steering wheel, and padded headrest.

    Reflecting on the Transitional Speedster, Rod Emory continues, “Porsche enthusiasts will notice that this build does not wear a “Speedster” emblem. This is a nod to the car’s coupé beginnings and to the idea that we are celebrating the best of what this car still had when we found it. The “1959½” designation also signifies how this car straddles model years and body styles. This Outlaw 356 illustrates just some of what is possible with our talented crew here at Emory Motorsports and the result is bringing new life to a car that would have been lost to history.”

    For more information on Emory Motorsports, please call 971.241.7017 or visit EmoryMotorsports.com or @rodemory on Instagram.

    #rodemory #emorymotorsports #emoryoutlawspeedster 

    #356outlaw #porsche356 #speedster #outlaw4

    EMORY MOTORSPORTS 1959½ SPEEDSTER

    Engine: 2.4-liter Emory-Rothsport “Outlaw-4” engine, full-flow oil system with remote filter and cooler, MSD twin-plug ignition with custom distributor, custom sport muffler, custom headers.

    Power: 205 HP

    Transaxle: 901 aluminum-case 4-speed.

    Brakes: Proprietary 4-wheel discs with parking brake.

    Suspension: 901 independent rear suspension with custom-narrowed trailing arms, Koni adjustable shocks, front and rear swaybars.

    Tires: 195/65R15 Dunlop SP 5000

    Wheels: 15×5 Tecnomagnesio with powder-coated satin-black finish, brushed wheel hubs.

    Fuel: 18-gallon custom GT Fuel Safe cell.

    Body: Hand-formed aluminum tonneau cover and headrest fairing, welded-in rollcage with headrest hoop, hood-handle delete, body-hugging bumpers, reverse-louvered deck lid, through-hood fuel filler, headlight grilles.

    Paint: Aquamarine metallic, hand-painted Mobil Pegasus.

    Interior: Hydes red leather upholstery with carpeted seat backs, Speedster-style seats, padded headrest, 2-point competition harnesses, charcoal square-weave carpet with rubber floormats, black knobs and escutcheons, Derrington steering wheel, Speedster dashboard, 904 triple gauge.

    Weight: 1,850 pounds.

    About Emory Motorsports

    Founded in 1996 by Amy and Rod Emory, Emory Motorsports initially provided turnkey prep, repairs, and logistics for vintage racers. When Rod Emory began doing custom builds, the company eventually evolved into one of the world’s leading resources for Porsche 356 customization and restoration.

    Rod Emory’s automotive roots date to 1948, when his grandfather Neil Emory founded Valley Custom Shop. An innovator in body chopping and channeling, Neil Emory created the bodywork for the infamous land-speed record-holding SoCal Streamliner. Rod’s dad, Gary, created the first Baja Bug while working as parts manager at Chick Iverson Porsche in the 1960s. He later founded Porsche Parts Obsolete and became the go-to source for hard-to-find replacement parts.

    Rod applied his grandfather’s sheet-metal fabrication skills and dad’s Porsche obsession and design sensibility to the 356 models. Porsche purists labeled the Emorys as ‘Outlaws’ when they dared attempt to enter shows in the 1990s with subtly modified cars that combined OE parts from different models. The Emorys happily became champions of the Porsche Outlaw movement. Since then, Emory Motorsports has stunningly rejuvenated more than 180 Porsche 356s and a few early 911s. The company also meticulously restored what is now regarded as the most historically significant Porsche ever, a 356 SL Gmund that took a class victory at the 1951 24 Hours of Le Mans–Porsche’s first international race win.

  • HIMALAYA Introduces Spectre Defender as Tribute to World’s Most Famous Secret Agent

    HIMALAYA Introduces Spectre Defender as Tribute to World’s Most Famous Secret Agent

    [source: HIMALAYA]

    CHARLESTON, SC – Amazing movie vehicles capture the attention of viewers in a way that makes them stars in their own right, and the limited-edition Spectre Defender from Himalaya is no exception. The South Carolina bespoke Defender specialists decided to offer collectors a rare opportunity to own one of the most famous Defenders to ever appear in film with the new special-edition Spectre tribute truck. Based on the iconic 4×4 famously featured in the British secret agent’s latest adventures, the handmade Himalaya Spectre is priced at $250,000. (Himalaya’s custom builds start at $165,000 and range up to $250,000.)

    “The Spectre Defender uses a rare Crew Cab pickup configuration,” says Himalaya President Greg Shondel. “Himalaya is able to create that very same layout using all-new body panels and frames sourced in England. After that process is complete, our team customizes the powertrain and interiors to the customers’ preferences, as with all of our other builds.”

    Himalaya is somewhat unique in the custom-Defender world for combining British styling with American mechanicals. Each project begins with an all-new UK-sourced frame, which is reinforced and also galvanized to fend off corrosion. Himalaya replaces the stock 1961-designed Buick/Rover 182-horsepower 3.9L V-8 engine with modern power, a GM LS3 in this case. This gives the Spectre 525 horsepower for propelling the oversized 37-inch Toyo mud-terrain tires. The end result is a stylish truck that can step up to even the most daring of adventures on- or off-road. (Himalaya’s other engine options include the Cummins R2.8 turbodiesel and Whipple-supercharged LS3.)

    Himalaya then integrates a GM 6-speed automatic transmission between the engine and Rover all-wheel-drive transfer case, which is rebuilt with upgraded components prior to installation. Similarly, the axles are factory housings with strengthened internals (the Spectre model pictured has open differentials). Because the mud tires weigh significantly more than the factory-sized rubber, Himalaya upgrades the brakes with larger Wilwood discs and is currently co-engineering a premium braking system with Brembo. Steering is bolstered with dependable Jeep Wrangler components.

    Spectre suspension specifications are fortified as well. Himalaya engineers in four inches of ride-height lift to clear the 37-inch tires. Custom coil springs are inserted, and extended-length control arms are built in-house with articulating Johnny Joints from Currie Enterprises. Ride is controlled by Fox Racing remote-reservoir shocks (Himalaya plans to offer additional USA-sourced geartrain options in the near future).

    The bodywork is where the Himalaya Spectre really excels. Because the company starts with an all-new frame that is precision-manufactured to be perfectly square, body-panel tolerances can be made significantly more consistent than original factory. Himalaya goes the extra step of designing and manufacturing their own handles, latches, and catches to exude the highest quality. Liberal amounts of Dynamat sound-deadening insulation and improved door sealing were also used to further assist in providing a more comfortable cabin experience.

    The Spectre’s brawny tough exterior presents a slant-back effect, which was achieved with a Safety Devices exo-cage and Front Runner Vehicle Outfitters roof rack. Himalaya further accentuated the angle with a custom bed-mounted rack for the full-sized spare tire. Additional body protection is supplied by a front A-bar-style winch bumper over a Warn Zeon 10S winch, a radiator skidplate, Amp Research Power Step sideboards, and a rear bumper with receiver hitch that Himalaya customized starting with a Poison Spyder Jeep unit. High Beam Offroad exterior LED lighting was also added. 

    Inside, Himalaya used the factory Puma-level quilted-upholstery trim as an underlying influence. Ruskin leather is the predominate material, and Alcantara was used for the headliner. Other details include Recaro seats, Dakota Digital gauges, a Momo steering wheel, Exmoor interior LED lighting, and a Safety Devices rollcage. Himalaya also installed a premium entertainment system comprised of a Kenwood head unit and JL Audio speakers.

    The Himalaya Spectre Edition Defender is just one example of the company’s capabilities. In addition to customer-spec’d bespoke Defenders, Himalaya also performs classic Rover restorations as well as resto-mod builds that are mostly factory-based but with a few strategic upgrades. For more information, please contact Himalaya, (800) 956-9481, drivehimalaya.com.

    ###

    Himalaya Spectre Defender 110 Specifications

    Drivetrain

    Engine: GM LS3 6.3L V-8, tuned Holley EFI, Hooker headers, stainless exhaust, aluminum radiator, electric fans

    Power: 525 HP, 495 Lb-Ft

    Transmission: 6L80E 6-Speed Automatic

    Transfer case: Rover LT230 all-wheel-drive, upgraded internals

    Axles: Rover modified with upgraded hubs, bearings, chromoly axleshafts, trussed rear housing

    Chassis

    New Richards Chassis frame: fully welded, boxed, hot-dip galvanized

    4-inch lift: Custom coils, Fox Racing remote-reservoir shocks, custom long-travel control arms with Currie Enterprises Johnny Joint articulating ends

    Brakes: Wilwood discs, braided steel hoses

    Steering: Jeep Wrangler JK steering box, custom linkage

    Tires/Wheels

    Tires: 37×13.50R18 Toyo Open Country M/T

    Wheels: 18-inch Rover Black Sawtooth alloys, 1.5-inch spacers

    Body/Exterior

    New panels made from original Rover tooling

    Non-U.S. market Crew Cab configuration

    Custom billet door handles, latches, hinges

    Safety Devices exo-cage, Front Runner Outfitters roof rack

    Amp Research retracting Power Steps

    A-bar front bumper, Warn Zeon 10S winch, custom rear bumper based on Poison Spyder Jeep designs

    Custom rear spare carrier

    Full skidplates

    Bushwacker fender flares

    High Beam Offroad LED lighting

    Interior

    Upholstery: Ruskin leather, Alcantara headliner

    Seats: Heated Recaro, adjustable shoulder belts

    Momo Millennium steering wheel

    Dash: OE Puma style, Dakota Digital gauges

    Kenwood head unit with JL Audio speakers: Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, USB, HDMI, Android, subwoofer

    Extensive Dynamat insulation

    Safety Devices rollcage

    Back-Up camera

    Power front windows

    Exmoor lighting

    Miscellaneous

    MSRP: $250,000

  • Emory Motorsports Creates One-Off Porsche 911K Outlaw

    Emory Motorsports Creates One-Off Porsche 911K Outlaw

    NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA – The Porsche 911 is among the most iconic and collectible automobiles to ever grace the highway, and Emory Motorsports is excited to unveil its first-ever fully custom 911: the Emory Outlaw 911K. Third-generation car customizer and world-renowned Porsche 356 expert Rod Emory has compiled a lifetime of automotive experience to develop this stunning creation. 

    Every aspect of the car is built for agility and the essential design language of Porsche’s early works prototypes and 911s are retained as an echo of Porsche Motorsports’ competition vehicles from 1960s. This is a unique and purposeful combination of mechanical parts and a sleek bullet-shaped body which produce the perfect track and rally weapon. 

    “This slab-sided Emory Outlaw 911K is unique,” Rod Emory says. “We specialize in 356s, and we did this 1968 911 SWB as a one-time commission for a special client. The inspiration for this car comes from Porsche 908-010, a K-bodied sports prototype once piloted by Vic Elford. The design cues and livery from that car lend themselves beautifully to this build.”

    This 1968 908 was one of the first closed-cockpit works prototype cars. It is also believed to be one of only five that still exist, and was also one of the five that initially received the short-tail (“Kurzheck”) bodywork. Porsche collector Cameron Healey occasionally campaigned the car in vintage races from 2006-2016, entrusting its care to Emory Motorsports. When the opportunity came for Rod Emory to restyle another 911, he used it as inspiration for the “911K,” which has many understated and purpose-driven details for Porsche aficionados who think they’ve seen everything.

    The 911K acknowledges its motorsports brethren with distinct cues such as the amber fiberglass dashcap, Porsche Light Ivory (hellelfenbein; non-metallic; 6404 / 6604 / 6804 / 131 / 1111 / L80E; Porsche) paint with signal-yellow (signalgelb; non-metallic; R1007 / 6823 / 114 / 7272; Porsche) accent and hand-painted Mobil Pegasus for that authentic touch. 

    Air horns and auxiliary lights define the car’s rally stance from the front. Other body modifications include mesh intake guards, a twin-grille decklid, R-style deck lid hinges and R-style bumpers.

    The 911K’s interior includes 908-inspired front seats with fire-retardant Spanish Red Veltex covers and MOMO 5-point competition harnesses. The MOMO influence continues to the Prototipo steering wheel and shift knob for the 901 five-speed transmission. Other custom additions include the removable rollbar, lightweight door panels & pulls and leather window straps.

    Power for the 911K comes from a later 2.5-liter twin-plug 911 engine. The hot-rodded six-cylinder powerplant produces 190 horsepower with the help of an MSD brain, Weber 40 IDA 3C carburetors, and 908-style cookie-cutter megaphones. Other details include a 935 “flat” cooling fan and shroud, hand-laid amber fiberglass airboxes, and a full-flow oil system with remote filter and cooler. A Fuel Safe fuel cell with through-fender competition filler feeds the engine.

    To counter the impressive engine, Emory Motorsports upgraded the brakes with 911 S alloy calipers with custom rotors and hats. Grip is courtesy of the Pirelli CN36 tires on custom 15×7 908-inspired 5-spoke wheels by 1552 rotating on Porsche 935 Carrera centerlock hubs. The suspension was chosen with track days in mind: 3-way fully adjustable KW coil-over gas shocks that provide great drivability in a variety of conditions.

    In all, Rod Emory pulled inspiration and design influences from key Porsche models to create the 911K, but the overall effect is restrained and tasteful. Attention to detail and fabrication mastery define all Emory builds, whether they be 356 or 911. This Emory ‘Outlaw’ is exceptional on many levels and was named ‘Favorite 911’ of Luftgekühlt 6 by many attendees.

    For more information on Emory Motorsports, please call 971.241.7017 or visit EmoryMotorsports.com or @rodemory on Instagram.

    EMORY MOTORSPORTS EMORY OUTLAW 1968 PORSCHE 911K

    Vehicle: 1968 Porsche 911K SWB

    Engine: 2.5-liter twin-plug 911

    Power (est.): 190 HP

    Suspension: 3-way fully adjustable KW coil-over gas shocks all around

    Wheels: 15 x 7″ dished 5-spoke custom 908-inspired center-lock wheels by 1552

    Tires: Pirelli CN36

    Body: 1968 911 SWB

    Paint: Porsche Light Ivory with signal yellow nose accent

    Accessories: Momo Shift knob, Momo Prototipo steering wheel, Amber fiberglass dashcap, removable roll bar, R-style door panels with lightweight pulls, leather window pulls, 5-point competition harnesses

    #emoryoutlaw #porsche #911k #rodemory #emorymotorsports

    # # #

    About Emory Motorsports

    Founded in 1996 by Amy and Rod Emory, Emory Motorsports initially provided turnkey prep, repairs, and logistics for vintage racers. When Rod Emory began doing custom builds, the company eventually evolved into one of the world’s leading resources for Porsche 356 customization and restoration.

    Rod Emory’s automotive roots date to 1948, when his grandfather Neil Emory founded Valley Custom Shop. An innovator in body chopping and channeling, Neil Emory created the bodywork for the infamous land-speed record-holding SoCal Streamliner. Rod’s dad, Gary, created the first Baja Bug while working as parts manager at Chick Iverson Porsche in the 1960s. He later founded Porsche Parts Obsolete and became the go-to source for hard-to-find replacement parts.

    Rod applied his grandfather’s sheet-metal fabrication skills and dad’s Porsche obsession and design sensibility to the 356 models. Porsche purists labeled the Emorys as ‘Outlaws’ when they dared attempt to enter shows in the 1990s with subtly modified cars that combined OE parts from different models. The Emorys happily became champions of the Porsche Outlaw movement. Since then, Emory Motorsports has stunningly rejuvenated more than 180 Porsche 356s and a few early 911s. The company also meticulously restored what is now regarded as the most historically significant Porsche ever, a 356 SL Gmund that took a class victory at the 1951 24 Hours of Le Mans–Porsche’s first international race win.

  • Mil-Spec Automotive Previews Newest Tactical Inspired #006 HUMMER H1

    Mil-Spec Automotive Previews Newest Tactical Inspired #006 HUMMER H1

    DETROIT, MI — Known for incredibly detailed one-of-a-kind Hummer customizations, Mil-Spec Automotive is debuting their newest bespoke build, #006. The sixth new H1 from the Detroit-based company features a sleek slant-back and an overall design heavily inspired by its celebrated military platform. Aiming for the perfect blend of tactical-inspired power paired with modern engineering, #006 represents the finest H1 build yet from Mil-Spec Automotive.

    “Six really is the culmination of everything our company has learned over the past four years restoring both the military and civilian model Hummers down to the smallest detail,” comments Mil-Spec Automotive CEO Adam Mitchell. “These trucks offer so much potential and really are amazing platforms for a company like ours to come in and re-engineer as well as redesign them as bespoke builds for enthusiasts looking for something completely different.” 

    As a starting point, Mil-Spec Automotive used their second build (another slant-back) as inspiration. The commissioning client requested a higher-fidelity version of #002. Mil-Spec Automotive Lead Designer Ian Broekman created the overall theme, opting for a more utilitarian aesthetic that highlights the strong H1 stance with a clean design. Mil-Spec Automotive wanted to evolve every aspect of #006, and tighten up every aspect of the truck in terms of design, engineering, fit, and finish.

    A 1996 4-door slant-back H1 served as the donor vehicle. As with every Mil-Spec Automotive build, the vehicle is completely disassembled and rebuilt to mint condition. The job involves replacing the factory seam-sealed floorpan with a fully welded aluminum unit. The in-depth process also actually shaves some vehicle weight while significantly adding rigidity and dampening overall road noise. Mil-Spec Automotive also fabricates any necessary replacement body panels out of aerospace-grade aluminum. This includes door skins as needed. 

    The most unique aspect of #006 is its adjustable suspension system. The #002 Slant-Back also had the optional Mil-Spec Air-Ride suspension, but a more refined self-leveling execution was used for the new #006. This system adds about four inches of ride-height adjustment to increase off-road ground clearance when needed via RideTech airbags at each corner. Accuair pneumatics and switches control the airbags for in-cab height adjustability; the self-leveling feature compensates for the added weight of rear-seat passengers and/or cargo. Unsprung weight is controlled to taste via 8-way-adjustable shocks.

    Like its predecessor #002, the new slant-back’s exterior is finished in Deep Sky Black textured spray-on polyurethane material, which is infused with Kevlar to help fend off brush and shopping-cart scratches. Black semi-gloss trim accents give a murdered-out effect but with subtle contrast. Other exterior options include the functional Mil-Spec hood scoop that decreases underhood temperatures, heavy-duty bumpers with a front Warn 12,000-pound winch, an all-aluminum offset snorkel, and a windshield-mounted 60-inch Baja Designs OnX6 LED lightbar.

    The new Mil-Spec Automotive H1 #006 is part of the company’s inaugural Launch Edition line. Limited to 12 bespoke vehicles created between 2018-2020, all Launch Edition H1 feature significantly upgraded powertrains. Instead of using the original 6.2L GM diesel found in most H1, Mil-Spec Automotive uses the LBZ version of the 6.6L Duramax engine found in the final-production-year 2006 “Alpha” Hummers. Each engine is rebuilt and assembled in-house to produce 500 horsepower and 1,000 lb-ft of torque. This is a significant improvement over the original specs: 360 hp/650 lb-ft.

    Gear reduction comes from an Allison 6-speed automatic transmissions that is prepped by MSA to handle the extra Duramax power. To maximize reliability, Mil-Spec replaces the factory all-wheel drive system with a late-model GM HD truck system: the part-time New Venture Gear 242 2-speed transfer case so that the front axleshafts aren’t being driven when the vehicle has traction on pavement. To reduce noise/vibration/harshness (NVH), Mil-Spec engineered the motormounts and transmission crossmember to optimize drivetrain angles and add rigidity. Prior to assembly, Mil-Spec powdercoats the frame to combat corrosion. 

    For #006, Mil-Spec also upgraded the 29-spline axleshafts and 1.92:1 portal gear-reduction units to the military Humvee 12,000 GVWR versions. To maximize traction without adversely compromising steering, a selectable ARB Air Locker was added to the rear axle. Also, brakes are upgraded to Wilwood 12.25-inch slotted/drilled rotors downstream from a Hydratech  hydroboost unit that uses the power-steering pump to add pressure to the braking system. 

    Tires are 38×13.50R20 Nitto Ridge Grapplers on 20×9.5 Black Rhino Armory military-look beadlock wheels in Matte Gunblack for a mature and function-focused look. Some customers like the factory Hummer wheels with central tire-inflation system (CTIS), but Mil-Spec Automotive feels that this system is more leak-prone. Instead, most customers work with Mil-Spec to choose aftermarket wheels. For dependable inflation, Mil-Spec Automotive adds an on-board compressor to supply inflation and service air. A quick-disconnect air fitting is mounted on the rear bumper, and a tire-inflation hose is included inside the cab, stored in the rear console.

    Mil-Spec Automotive’s in-house designers also work with clients to completely personalize interiors. The overall scheme on #006 is a function-forward two-tone black leather with black Tough Duck marine-grade canvas accents to match the truck’s triple-black theme. Instead of carpeting, Mil-Spec chose an all-weather vinyl fabric for optimal durability. This covers the polyurethane-coated body tub. Sound-deadening material is also added generously to help overcome the H1’s rattly DNA. Acoustic control extends to the padded headliner, which runs the length of the vehicle, through the Slant-Back hardtop.

    The rest of the interior retains only the original front-seat brackets. The instrument panel and gauges were designed in-house by Mil-Spec. Features include an altitude reading, GPS speed, and performance-capturing for top speed, 0-60 mph, and quarter-mile times. A MOMO Prototipo steering wheel is covered in upholstery-complementary leather. 

    All controls and vents are positioned aircraft-style in the custom center console. Dual Vintage Air systems provide separate A/C for front and rear seats. Convenience items also housed in the console include numerous USB and 12v lighter-style power ports, four cupholders, storage trays, and a rear lockbox. Infotainment is marine-grade, 9-speaker JL Audio equipment pumping out 700 watts of power. Dual batteries with a marine-style shut-off and a 200-amp alternator supply sufficient juice for charging and accessories. A back-up camera is integrated into the rearview mirror. Paracord grab-handles extend the tactical overtones. Finally, the customer expressed interest in fitted luggage. Mil-Spec sourced a tactical-inspired solution that matches the truck’s aesthetic with Pelican Elite Travel System Luggage: Carry-On, Weekender, and Vacationer.

    MSRP on #006 is $295,039. For more information on its specs or on the remaining Launch Edition build slots, please contact Mil-Spec Automotive, 248-430-5150, www.milspecauto.com.

    #milspecautomotive #milspec #msa #hummer #h1 #launchedition

    # # #

  • Emory Motorsports Designs Custom 1960 356 Porsche for Music Icon John Oates

    Emory Motorsports Designs Custom 1960 356 Porsche for Music Icon John Oates

    Legendary Hall & Oates Guitarist Unveils His Car Alongside Celebrated Porsche Outlaw Builder Rod Emory During Porsche Cars’ 70th Anniversary Party

    [source: Emory Motorsports]

    NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA — Having sold some 40 million records worldwide, Hall & Oates are considered the world’s best-selling music duo in history. The record-breaking band was famously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, but what many fans don’t know is celebrated guitarist/vocalist/composer John Oates is also a long-time Porsche fan. 

    The consummate collaborator, Oates contacted Emory Motorsports Founder Rod Emory about creating a truly one-of-a-kind classic Porsche. As a longtime Porsche enthusiast and collector, Oates wanted the perfect Porsche 356. Working closely with Emory, Oates made it clear he wanted to preserve the elegant styling of the 356 but imbue the car with more-modern performance and other custom touches. Rod found the ideal donor car, a 1960 356B Cabriolet, and went to work alongside Oates on the build. 

    Long known by enthusiasts for creating the Porsche Outlaw movement with his custom 356s, Rod Emory also offers his clients more-subtle Emory Special builds. Growing up in a family of auto customizers and designers, Rod Emory created John Oates’ Emory Special using many of the same customizing techniques – and many of the same actual tools – that his grandfather Neil pioneered dating back to 1948 when he founded Valley Custom in Burbank, California. Known as one of the seminal minds in the golden age of hot-rodding, Neil built a reputation for stately, understated coachwork that Rod employs to this day at Emory Motorsports. 

    Oates’ 1960 356 Emory Special is no exception. The overall design further enhances the original 356 body with seamless, subtle alterations. Working together, Oates and Emory succeeded in restoring and designing one of the most beautiful 356 cars to ever grace the road. Bespoke cars like the Oates 1960 Emory Special are built to order by Emory Motorsports, beginning with damaged donor cars that Rod secures from all over the country. During the build, body modifications are done to change the 356’s profile while still retaining its iconic design language and proportions. 

    “When people hear custom, their minds tend to go to the outrageous, but our work is all about restraint,” explains Emory Motorsports Founder Rod Emory. “John’s 356 is perfect example. The body began life as a 1960 356B Cabriolet, which had a removable hard top. We replaced the car’s damaged nose with 356A-style bodywork, but leaned it back for a sleeker appearance. We also modified the windshield frame the same way. The removable hard top was tailored to create a more streamlined roof profile, and we integrated body-hugging 356A-style bumpers. Everything is presented in the same way a new 356 would be rolling off the line. The key difference is the subtle changes Emory Motorsports makes to the original design.”

    Emory Motorsports surrounds vintage sheetmetal with later Porsche-performance DNA for Emory Special and Emory Outlaw builds. John Oates’ 1960 356 is a prime example. Power is supplied by the new Emory-Rothsport “Outlaw-4” engine. Emory collaborated with Porsche GT racing team crew chief Jeff Gamroth of Rothsport Racing to create an all-new air-cooled four-cylinder engine block, based on the dry-sump Porsche 3.6L Type 964 engine – but also incorporating the best features of three generations of the 911 powerplant. Custom cam housings, camshafts, and crankshafts are designed to work with OE Porsche engine components. 

    The Outlaw-4 engine makes use of the 3.6L twin-plug and dry-sump design features for the sake of performance. However, the new engine takes advantage of MSD computer-controlled ignition, augmented by a custom distributor and full-flow oiling with remote filter and cooler. John Oates’ engine is the 2.4L Outlaw-4 configuration with custom headers leading to a 911 sport muffler. It is fed by a through-hood fuel filler atop a custom 18-gallon GT Fuel Safe cell. The Outlaw-4 engine is mated to an early Porsche 911 901l aluminum-case 5-speed transmission.

    Chassis modernizing was also part of the plan from the outset. Emory adapted early Porsche 911 independent rear suspension with custom-narrowed trailing arms. Adjustable Koni shocks control the ride, and Emory added front and rear swaybars to control body roll during aggressive cornering. Handling is also improved with a proprietary Emory four-wheel disc-brake system, which stops the 205/55ZR16 Pirelli P Zero Rosso tires on custom 15×6 billet alloy wheels. The wheels were powdercoated black and have mirror-polished hubs. 

    John Oates worked directly with Rod Emory to map out the interior cabin. Hydes cognac leather is showcased throughout. The Speedster-style seats received basketweave inserts and 2-point competition harnesses. German square-weave carpet in is augmented by traditional rubber floormats.

    Other interior features include the mid-1960s Porsche 904-style triple gauge, accented by a Derrington steering wheel, an Emory Outlaw shift knob, black control knobs and escutcheons, and the radio-delete option. A removable rollbar was added in case Oates decides to track his 356.

    Final exterior details really set this car apart. To complement the removable rollbar, Emory created interchangeable hard and soft tops. The re-profiled OE hardtop is pictured; the car also has a custom soft top for summer cruising. 

    Finished in Graphite Grey Metallic RM paint, Oates’ 1960 356 Emory Special has a few additional bespoke body modifications. These include a hood-handle delete, body-hugging bumpers, body-mounted driving lights, and a signature Emory reverse-louvered deck lid. The 200-horsepower car weighs 1,850 pounds.

    John Oates debuted his Emory Special 356 in late October at an intimate party and private concert at the Porsche Experience Center in Atlanta as part of the marque’s 70th Anniversary celebration. For more information on Emory Motorsports, please call 971.241.7017 or visit EmoryMotorsports.com.

    About Emory Motorsports

    Founded in 1996 by Amy and Rod Emory, Emory Motorsports initially provided turn-key prep, repairs, and logistics for vintage racers. When Rod Emory began doing custom street builds, the company evolved into one of the world’s leading resources for Porsche 356 customization and restoration.

    Rod Emory’s automotive roots date to 1948, when his grandfather Neil Emory founded Valley Custom Shop. An innovator in body chopping and channeling, Neil Emory created the bodywork for the infamous land-speed record-holding SoCal Streamliner. Rod’s dad, Gary, created the first Baja Bug while working as parts manager at Chick Iverson Porsche in the 1960s. He later founded (Porsche) Parts Obsolete and became the go-to source for hard-to-find replacement parts.

    Rod applied his grandfather’s sheetmetal skills and dad’s Porsche obsession and design sensibility to the 356 models. Porsche purists labeled the Emorys’ cars “outlaws” when they dared attempt to enter shows in the 1990s with subtly modified 356s that combined OE parts from different eras. The Emorys happily became champions of what is now known as the “Porsche Outlaw” customizing movement. 

    Emory Motorsports has created some of the most stunning early Porsches ever built. The company also did a meticulous Pebble Beach Concours-recognized restoration of the most historically significant werks Porsche ever, a 356 SL Gmund that took a class victory at the 1951 24 Hours of LeMans – Porsche’s first international race win.