Wanderlust

Tag: 911

  • The First Gemballa Marsiens Have Landed

    The First Gemballa Marsiens Have Landed

    • Series production of the MARSIEN, limited to just 40 pieces, is running at full speed
    • All MARSIEN sold out at launch and will be delivered to their owners in more than 16 countries around the globe
    • Countless test drives on the Nordschleife, in the Arabian desert, as well as on the glaciers of Sölden and Scandinavia have been carried out
    • More than 422 new individual components have been developed in thousands of engineering hours with industry leading partners
    • Inspired by the legendary Paris Dakar rally era and launched in 2021, MARSIEN created a completely new segment of all terrain capable super cars, enabling the ultimate driving experience for both on- and off-road use
    • Find all images and details at www.marsien.com/seriesproduction

    [source: Gemballa]

    The series production of the limited-edition MARSIEN by Marc Philipp Gemballa GmbH (not associated in any form with Gemballa GmbH) is running at full speed. The super car, limited to just 40 units, is being delivered to clients in more than sixteen countries around the globe. The MARSIEN is all terrain capable, suitable for everyday use, technology focused and futuristic in appearance designed by French Porsche aficionado Alan Derosier. It embodies the entrepreneur’s vision of creating holistic and timeless masterpieces that tell a story and go far beyond the scope of the traditional tuning business.

    MADE FOR THE EXTREMES: THE MARSIEN WAS TESTED UNDER EXTREME CONDITIONS – 
    FROM THE ARABIAN DESERT, NÜRBURGRING NORDSCHLEIFE ALL THE WAY TO THE GLACIERS OF AUSTRIA
    Legendary engineers who have made vehicles competition-ready for the 24 Hours of Le Mans and other races were involved in the development of the MARSIEN and the 422 specially developed components from bespoke double wishbone suspension, titanium exhaust system, along with own taillights, wiring loom, which took several thousand hours of engineering and design. The MARSIEN’s full carbon fiber body consisting of more than 80 single carbon fiber components that mastered bullet tests, the homologation of the taillights and the vehicle as a whole, to only name a few major tests passed in the process of gaining road approval.

    In order to put MARSIEN through its paces, Marc Philipp Gemballa and his team travelled to Scandinavia, where it was -20 degrees Celsius, drove up the glacier in Sölden, Austria and covered 3,000 km on the Nordschleife as part of the industry pool drives for homologation. The sizzling desert in the United Arab Emirates with temperatures in excess of 50 degrees Celsius was also part of the rigorous testing. It was there, in the Al-Faya desert in the Emirate of Sharjah, that the name MARSIEN was born. The red desert sand combined with the unparalleled mountain landscape took the test team’s breath away. “We felt like we were on Mars,” Marc Philipp Gemballa recalls. The surroundings were reminiscent of the red planet, and the conditions on site made the super car feel right at home – after all, it was made precisely for such extreme conditions. Hence the name MARSIEN, derived from the French word “Martian” or “from Mars”.

    CUTTING EDGE SUSPENSION TECHNOLOGY
    As one of the key technological highlights, MARSIEN features a completely bespoke double wishbone suspension setup developed by the engineers responsible for countless rally, GT and special series’ suspensions. The suspension system consisting of more than 30 individual components milled from solid aluminum, implements extensive changes to the chassis of the base vehicle and is equipped with KW Automotive solid piston damper technology featuring an intelligent active damper control as well as an adjustable ride height system for on and off-road use. As part of the special options program, the suspension components can be anodized in gold according to the client’s wishes.

    The adjustable ride height system of the MARSIEN enables an electronically controlled hydraulic lift system to increase the ground clearance to an unprecedented ride height of 250 mm. This enables the MARSIEN to deliver the ultimate on- and off-road driving experience, performing in terrain that no other super car can dream of.

    An automatic tire pressure system has been integrated into the frunk of the MARSIEN, allowing the driver to adjust the tire pressure to the requirements of any given terrain on the go by inflating or deflating the tire and enhancing the off-road performance.

    SPECIALLY DESIGNED FORGED ALUMINUM WHEEL SETS FOR ON- AND OFF-ROAD USE
    For perfect driving conditions both on- and off-road, the MARSIEN comes with two specially designed forged aluminum wheel sets with center locking system, running on Michelin Ultra High Performance (UHP) tires for on-road and Grabber AT 3 All Terrain tires for off-road use. Optionally clients can specify their MARSIEN with an even more road-focused Lightweight GT wheel set, further enhancing on-road performance. The Lightweight GT wheel set of the launch vehicle has been painted in a triple layer pearlescent white reminiscent of the exterior launch color of the MARSIEN prototype specification, while the off-road wheel set has been painted in a deep navy-blue matte finish. Both wheel sets are equipped with wheel caps in 24-carat gold featuring the G crest.

    FULL CARBON FIBER EXTERIOR
    The MARSIEN features a full carbon fiber exterior consisting of more than 85 individual carbon fiber components including air channels, wing mirrors, wheel arch liners and a rear panel that reaches all the way from the A-pillar to the rear wing. The MARSIEN exterior has been exclusively designed for performance, light weight and cooling and achieves a total weight reduction of 50 kilograms compared to the standard Porsche 992 Turbo S base vehicle. Each body panel is manufactured by leading German carbon fiber specialists who also supply leading OEMs, sportscar manufacturers and several Formula One teams.

    MARSIEN owners can specify the contrast elements of the exterior such as the lower front splitter, side skirts, wing mirrors, air channels, as well as the exhaust frame and rear diffuser in exposed carbon fiber as part of the special options program. For those that like to go beyond, there is also the option to have a fully exposed carbon fiber exterior. All exposed carbon fiber components can be specified in gloss or matte and optionally in tinted carbon finish.

    EXTRAORDINARY EXTERIOR PAINTWORK
    The exterior paintwork is applied by a state-of-the-art and certified paint studio that is able to fulfil the most daring customer color requests. For the specification of the series launch vehicle, an elaborate one-off four- layer blue pearlescent exterior color with special metallic flakes has been created, which changes the color of the vehicle according to the direction of the light and angle of view. The color requires extensive preparation of the bodywork and was inspired by the polar caps on Mars and has therefore been named MARSIEN Glacier Blue.

    BESPOKE REAR LIGHT TECHNOLOGY
    The MARSIEN rear design features a completely bespoke rear light that has been developed in collaboration with light specialist GERG Lighthouse. The manufacturing technology for the MARSIEN’s rear light has also been utilized for the European missile defense system Meteor and represents an integral part of the iconic design of the MARSIEN.

    MAKING INTERIOR DREAMS COME TRUE
    The interior of the MARSIEN also features several specifically designed elements. The center console has been lifted and equipped with an aluminum gear stick inspired by the legendary CGT, allowing for a sportier, more analog driving experience. It can be optionally fitted with a gear knob in carbon or mahogany instead of leather or Alcantara. As part of the special options program, clients can specify the carbon fiber interior package, adding further exposed carbon fiber elements to the driver’s cabin. Furthermore, clients have the option to add a club sport roll bar behind the seats of their MARSIEN that can be painted in color of choice, or finished in leather, Alcantara, or exposed carbon fiber. Finally, the metal badge displaying the individual production number of the limited series of just 40 pieces is embedded in the center console – lending a special touch to the cabin.

    The interior specification of the launch vehicle has been finished in a navy blue Alcantara combined with interior accent elements in ice blue for the stitching, seat belts, door lashes, and instrument dials matching the MARSIEN Glacier Blue exterior paint. Matching the navy blue Alcantara, the interior is equipped with carbon fiber accents as well as an exposed carbon fiber roll bar finished in tinted blue. All badges and model designations have been finished in 24-carat gold on the launch vehicle specification.

    POWERED BY INDUSTRY LEADING PARTNERS
    Besides the technological partnership with suspension specialist KW Automotive for the damper system, Marc Philipp Gemballa teamed up with other renown industry leading partners.

    The engine upgrade powered by RUF enables the six-cylinder boxer engine to deliver over 750 horsepower and 930 Newton meters of torque. For clients that are looking for even more power, there is a second stage power upgrade that takes the horsepower up to 830 with enhanced VTG turbo chargers and a revised ECU mapping and transmission setting.

    BMC, the air filter specialist based in Italy, has developed special engine air filters that are specifically for dusty desert conditions. While protecting the engine from dust and foreign particles, it maintains a sufficient flow of fresh air to allow the engine to work optimally.

    For the MARSIEN sound, Marc Philipp Gemballa partnered with the leading performance exhaust manufacturer Akrapovič to exclusively develop an entirely new titanium exhaust system for the MARSIEN, focusing on a bespoke sound experience, light weight and further increasing the power output of the upgraded RUF boxer engine.

    EVERY MARSIEN IS ONE-OF-ONE
    Every MARSIEN is a unique piece, a true one-of-one, designed and built to each client’s dream specification. MARSIEN is meticulously crafted down to the last detail, even the most daring client wishes can be realized, from creating an one-off exterior color that could be matched to their partners favorite handbag, badges and model designation finished in 24k gold, bespoke interiors with the finest selection of materials to a fully exposed carbon fiber exterior that could even be specified in a tinted carbon finish. Each MARSIEN owner has made extensive use of the special options program ensuring to create their very own one-of-one MARSIEN.

    MARSIEN ON DISPLAY – FROM LAKE COMO TO THE FRENCH RIVIERA
    The MARSIEN series production vehicle was first presented as part of the up and coming Fuori Concorso event at Lake Como from 24-26 May for its European debut.

    The French Riviera around Cap Ferrat and Monaco served as the location for the photoshoot of the MARSIEN series production vehicle captured by Oskar Bakke. “This place is special to me since I spent a lot of time here during my childhood and used to visit Monaco every year with my father for the Grand Prix and several automobile shows presenting his newest creations,” Marc Philipp Gemballa remembers.

    DELIMITATION
    This press release is published by MARC PHILIPP GEMBALLA GmbH. MARC PHILIPP GEMBALLA GmbH is not associated in any form with Gemballa GmbH, and/or any of its subsidiaries, and/or its trademarks.



  • Porsche Ushers In Return of Slate Grey with Slate Grey Neo

    Porsche Ushers In Return of Slate Grey with Slate Grey Neo

    Porsche chose the introduction of the Macan 4S, a middleweight take on the new electric Macan, to confirm its reintroduction of an iconic grey color made famous by Steve McQueen. Slate Grey Neo will now be made available for the Macan E. Interestingly, it also appears to be a standard color on the new 992.2 Porsche 911 GTS hybrid.

    If you’ve ever watched the iconic Steve McQueen movie Le Mans, you probably remember the opening of the movie where McQueen’s character rolls through the city of Le Mans’ old historic center and pausing to stop in front of the Roman-era cathedral. In that scene, he’s driving a Slate Grey 911S. Over the years, the movie and that car have all enjoyed icon status. In fact, it left such an impression on McQueen that he ended up owning an identically specced car back at home in Los Angeles.

    As Porsche has reformulated some of its classic colors for modern cars and painting with a series of “Neo”-named hues, that it would revisit Slate Grey was probably always to be expected. The overall results are certainly very attractive.

    Interestingly, though Porsche confirmed Slate Grey Neo for the electric Macan 4S, it didn’t reveal any photos of that car in that particular color just yet. When we searched the brand’s photo stock inventory though, we did find shots of the new 992.2 GTS hybrid in the same color and have formatted them here for this story.

  • Porsche Ibérica Celebrates Anniversary with Cuarenta Edition

    Porsche Ibérica Celebrates Anniversary with Cuarenta Edition

    To mark its 40th anniversary, the subsidiary Porsche Ibérica has unveiled the Cuarenta Edition. It features a unique combination of exterior and interior colours and finishes, as well as exclusive logos inspired by Iberian history and culture. The creation of this 911 edition brought together experts from the market Porsche Ibérica, Style Porsche and the Sonderwunsch Team in Zuffenhausen.

    [source: Porsche]

    In 1984, Porsche transitioned from being represented in Spain by an importer to being a subsidiary, initially called Porsche España, S.A. This milestone not only reflects the brand’s strong bond with its Iberian enthusiasts but also marks the beginning of a new chapter in the company’s history. To commemorate these four decades and to honour the customers who have made them possible, Porsche is presenting an exclusive and highly individualised edition of the iconic 911. The limited market edition is distinguished by its meticulously crafted design and the exclusivity that defines contemporary Porsche luxury. With carefully selected colours, materials, and finishes, each car in this collection is a work of art in motion, compiled by Porsche Ibérica to fulfil the dreams of a small group of future owners.

    “The arrival of Porsche as a subsidiary in Spain and Portugal, taking over from the importer at the time, was a turning point for the brand,” says Tomás Villén, Managing Director of Porsche Ibérica. “We are very proud of the work we have done in these forty years, and what better way to celebrate than with an exclusive model of the company’s icon, the 911, for our market. At Porsche Ibérica, we will keep one unit, which we will use and preserve as a jewel to showcase our heritage.”

    Inspired by the Iberian culture and tradition

    The idea behind the Cuarenta Edition was to create a 911 that would have been ordered by a Spanish or Portuguese customer 40 years ago and that is still fashionable and desirable today,” says Alexander Fabig, Vice President Individualisation & Classic at Porsche. “In this Sonderwunsch project, the collaboration with our Spanish and Portuguese colleagues was very creative. We learnt a lot about Iberian culture and tradition as well as anecdotes from the founding period of Porsche Ibérica in the 1980s.”

    In addition to the various anniversary activities planned throughout the year, Porsche Ibérica wanted to create a special version based on the iconic 911 that would be reminiscent of the founding phase in the 1980s. Porsche Ibérica turned to the Sonderwunsch programme to begin the creation process, together with the specialists of this department. The Sonderwunsch programme takes individualisation, attention to detail and skilled craftmanship to the next level. The result is the integration of Individual design elements that go far beyond the existing catalogue for the 911.

    A team travelled to Porsche’s headquarter in Zuffenhausen to create together the details for this market edition. The entire process was undertaken ahead of the launch of the new evolution of the 911. The base version chosen was the new Carrera GTS Coupé, the first new model to be marketed by the Spanish subsidiary 40 years ago. The timeless sporty style and technical sophistication of the 911 GTS were refined with selected Sonderwunsch touches to create a tailor-made concept for the Spanish and Portuguese customers.

    In this second phase of the 911 series, the Carrera GTS version is equipped with the new T-Hybrid drive system. It combines an electric motor integrated into the turbocharger, a lightweight high-voltage battery, and an electric motor coupled to the eight-speed PDK gearbox. The six-cylinder boxer now has a displacement of 3.6 litres. With a system output of 398 kW (541 PS, 911 Carrera GTS: Fuel consumption* combined (WLTP) 11.0 – 10.5 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions* combined (WLTP) 251 – 239 g/km, CO2 class G ), it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.0 seconds and reach a top speed of 312 km/h (194 mph). Standard equipment includes rear-wheel steering, and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with 10 millimetres lower ground clearance.

    The Porsche Driver Experience control concept focuses on the driver’s axis for intuitive and faster operation. Key controls have been positioned directly on or around the steering wheel. For the first time in a 911, there is a start button, naturally to the left of the steering wheel, and the instrument panel is fully digital.

    Exterior Design

    For the Cuarenta Edition, a bespoke exterior colour has been created: Quercusverde reminds of the very particular shade that holm oak leaves have. This green colour is characteristic of the typical landscape of Spain and Portugal, with its fields of holm oaks, oak trees, and cork oaks. Quercusverde was developed via the Paint to Sample Plus offer. Offered through Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, the Paint to Sample Plus programme makes it possible to create individual colours based on customer specifications.

    The Quercus tree is also used in the anniversary logo. It is hand-painted and placed on the rear lid grille of the car. Additionally, fidentifying elements include the nueveonce/Cuarenta (“911 40”) logo on the B-pillar in Cremewhite, the Porsche and 911 logo at the rear in Silver, the side window trims in Aluminium, the fender flares in stone guard film in Black Satin and the rear lights and strip in Red.

    The stone guard film is a functional and stylistic nod to the popular option of 911s in the 80ies. The modern 911 Carrera GTS Cuarenta Edition brings this element back. A stone guard film was specially designed in the shape of the protective film used on a 911 back in the days as well. In Black Satin, it is placed on each Cuarenta Edition.

    The wheels are RS Spyder Design in Black Satin with a rim painted in Brilliant Silver and wheel centre caps in Black Satin with Porsche crest monochrome. This is an homage to the colour combination to be found on the 911 wheels in the 1980’s.

    Interior concept

    The interior is designed in a two-tone Truffle Brown and Cohiba Brown leather combination. The darker brown shade is applied on the instrument panel and lower surfaces. The lighter is applied on the trim surfaces. The brown tones refer to the artisanal work of the guarnicioneros (the craftsmen who work in saddlery, which is considered nearly an art in the Iberian Peninsula).

    Remarkable eye catcher and bespoke to this car is the Tartan textile on the seat centre inlays in a specially developed colour scheme: Truffle Brown, Cohiba Brown, Crayon and a nuance of Quercusverde appear in a checkered pattern.

    For the Cuarenta Edition, an elegant cross-stitching is applied in Crayon and Truffle Brown along the dashboard trim and upper door panel. Cross-stitching is a highly manual process. Experts in the saddlery sew every stitch carefully by hand. The detail underlines the luxurious interior concept of the car. Adaptive Sports seats Plus (18-way) and rear seats are upholstered in Cohiba Brown leather with seat centres in the new Tartan textile. Elegant piping in Crayon is manufactured on front and rear, emphasizing the luxurious interior concept of this market edition. Front seats are additionally finished with Cuarenta embossing on the headrests.

    In a subtle way, the passenger trim in leather Truffle Brown shows the high-quality embossing Cuarenta emphasizing the individualised interior. Further individualised is the storage lid on the centre console with “Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur” lettering embossed.

    When entering the vehicle, customers will see the door sill guards in Aluminium Darksilver with customized Cuarenta lettering illuminated in Cremewhite. In addition, the individualised LED door courtesy lights display the special “Quercus tree logo” on the ground. Attention to detail can also be found on the driver’s key, which is painted in Quercusverde and features a Cuarenta lettering in Silver. It is handed over to the customer in a special two-tone Truffle Brown and Cohiba Brown leather key pouch – matching the interior. The key pouch also shows an embossing of the Quercus tree logo.

    Customers will also receive an indoor car cover custom-made for the Cuarenta Edition. Executed in Quercusverde, it features a Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur logo on front, Cuarenta Edition lettering on sides in Cremewhite and badge on the rear.

  • Market Find: Porsche Paint to Sample Arena Red 997.2 Turbo S

    Market Find: Porsche Paint to Sample Arena Red 997.2 Turbo S

    Made famous in the Kills Bugs Fast adverts of the mid 90s, images of Arena Red 993 generation 911s were on the walls of many admirers around the world. With this Turbo S having covered a scant 7,400 miles since new, we’d assume more than a few of the aforementioned images have higher miles as well.

    Does the color stand the test of time? Yeah, we’d say so. Being sold by a private individual in Michigan who’s managed just 3,000 (nearly half!) of those miles over the past eight years of ownership, this top-tier Tailored Driver can be found on AutoTrader for $144,000.

  • Monterey Auction Preview: RM with Former White Collection 2023 911 Sport Classic

    Monterey Auction Preview: RM with Former White Collection 2023 911 Sport Classic

    One tailored build headed for auction during Monterey Car Week 2024 is this very unique 2023 Porsche 911 Sport Classic (VIN: WP0AG2A90PS252368) being sold without reserve by RM Sotheby’s. Sold via Porsche North Houston, you may not be all that surprised looking at the spec that this 992 was built for the White Collection.

    We’ve been unable to confirm the specific white, but the associated documents provided by RM do confirm the white that covers it is a Paint to Sample shade. It’s also worth noting that this car had plenty of Sonderwunsch factory commissioned modifications. These include many components color-matched white, and a striking red interior.

    Below the gallery is a the full description provided by RM Sotheby’s. Find more photos and information on the car HERE.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: We were unable to confirm this paint color during the writing of this story. If you know the color, please confirm it below in the comments or by direct messaging the author.

    • The most powerful Porsche Type 992 911 with a manual transmission
    • One of 1,250 examples produced
    • Delivered new to the White Collection 
    • Extensively personalized with over $150,000 of Sonderwunsch Factory Commissioning, for a total new price of $448,535
    • Presented in virtually as-new condition with fewer than 77 miles on the odometer at the time of cataloguing 

    With so many iconic cars and significant achievements throughout the past 75 years, Porsche rightfully celebrates the company’s heritage by offering its most dedicated followers limited-production models inspired by their most beloved and sought-after historical creations. Cars like the 911 R, the several generations of Speedsters, and the original Type 997 Sport Classic have all offered modern performance with a dash of vintage panache.

    The latest iteration of the Sport Classic, now based on the Type 992 platform, presents a “greatest hits” collection of the most established Porsche design features wrapped around one of the most potent and engaging drivetrains ever fitted to a 911. This limited-edition model is easily identified by the 2.7 RS-inspired duck tail spoiler and Fuchs-style wheels on all four corners. Keener observers will note the double-bubble carbon fiber roof, gold-color badging, and a Porsche shield featuring the early-style bright red element of the Württemberg crest. Twin stripes streak across the hood, roof, and tail, further alluding to the firm’s immense racing history. The interior is covered with plenty of leather, distinctive houndstooth cloth on the doors and seat inserts, and green-accented instrumentation for a 1960s atmosphere. Lastly, a badge on the dashboard notes the serial number of each Sport Classic.

    Utilizing the Turbo widebody and engine platform, the Sport Classic is the most powerful rear-wheel drive 911 of this generation so far. The twin-turbocharged 3.7-liter flat-six engine produces a whopping 542 horsepower, and while mildly detuned from its four-wheel drive brethren, this reduction has allowed for the option of a manual transmission (much to the delight of enthusiasts). The chassis is additionally fitted with carbon ceramic brakes, Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control, rear steering, Porsche Active Suspension Management, and a specially tuned exhaust as standard.

    On offer is serial number 0923 of the 1,250 Sport Classics offered worldwide. An immensely special machine already, this example stands above its siblings courtesy of over $150,000 worth of Sonderwunsch Factory Commissioning. As shown on the CXX option sheet on file, the exterior is finished almost entirely in White, from the front-end air intakes to the wheels and around to the lower rear valance. Only matte white stripes and black wheel center locks provide contrast to this snowy exterior treatment. Alternatively, the sanguine interior features leather across most visible surfaces in a display of supreme luxury and customization. The air vents, center tunnel, knee pads, front trunk, rear side panels, lower dashboard, inner door sill guards, and even the owner’s manual wallet are all finished in Can Can Red hides. Houndstooth joins the mix on the door cards, seat inserts, and trunk pouch. The summation of this custom tailoring has resulted in a truly exquisite example of such a special Porsche.

    Delivered new to the legendary White Collection, the 911 subsequently traded hands and today presents with fewer than 77 miles on the odometer at the time of cataloging. Thanks to this limited use, the car presents in virtually as-new condition and will undoubtedly be a highlight of any serious collection for decades to come.

  • Singer Shares Oak Green 911 Turbo Commission

    Singer Shares Oak Green 911 Turbo Commission

    With preeminent Porsche reimagineer Singer now firmly into their “Turbo” era, we’ve been loving the fresh G-body Turbo-inspired take on the classic Porsche 911 totally rebuilt and reimagined by the California firm with an impeccable attention to detail. This time around, Singer confirms some of the spec on their social channels including “Oak Green” that appears to be consistent with the longtime dark metallic green made popular by Porsche.

    Inside, the tailored spec continues to impress with primary trim in Bone, accented with Olive Green leather and velour over power seats.

    Photos are credited to @drewphillipsphoto

    Find Singer’s own Instagram posts HERE, HERE and HERE.

  • Unique Sonderwunsch Model with Extraordinary Paintwork

    Unique Sonderwunsch Model with Extraordinary Paintwork

    To provide customers with support in developing their ideas for their own personal dream car, Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur has configured a 911 Turbo S as an example of Sonderwunsch Factory Commissioning. The vehicle made its most recent appearance at the Fuori Concorso. In keeping with this year’s motto “British racing green”, the customised vehicle shone in the Urban Bamboo effect paint finish.

    [source: Porsche]

    With many special features such as the extraordinary “Chromaflair”-effect paint in Urban Bamboo, painted design strips on the body, and the leather trim offset with different colours and copious cross-stitching, this model exemplifies everything that is possible with the help of the Sonderwunsch programme.

    The appetiser was such as success that it sealed its own fate: the Sonderwunsch model has since been sold to an enthusiast. Guglielmo Miani, head of the Milan-based luxury brand Larusmiani, fell in love with the unique vehicle during a consultation in Zuffenhausen. The sports car could then be seen at the “Fuori Concorso 2022” at Lake Como. Established by Guglielmo Miani, this event series celebrates the most attractive aspects of automotive culture. 

    The inspiration for the extensively configured, Sonderwunsch model was one of the four Porsche 959s that the department that was the predecessor to the Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur had built for a customer in the late 1980s. With its decades of experience, the sports car manufacturer has been one of the pioneers of factory customisation. With more than 1,000 additional options across all model lines, Porsche has more than doubled its customisation options since 2012.

    Handcrafted: elaborate “Chromaflair” process

    Among other features, the Sonderwunsch 911 Turbo S Coupé shares its striking paintwork with the Porsche 959. Today’s interpretation eschews polarising Dark Gold, however, in favour of a painstakingly hand-painted Urban Bamboo using the “Chromaflair” process. With this technology, a total of five coats of paint are applied. The special feature is the wafer-thin pigments in the top coat, which result in the beholder seeing different shades of colour depending on the viewing angle and light. In addition to Urban Bamboo, Porsche also offers the “Chromaflair”-effect paint in Python Green, Magic Magenta, Shifting Carbon and Explosive Gold.

    As with the historic 959, a tri-colour design stripe extends from the front wings and across the doors and shoulders all the way to the rear. The line followed by the stripe was first adapted and optimised for the shape of the 911 by designer Grant Larson of Style Porsche using tape in the design phase. The painted-on stripe is applied by hand in the colours Rock Green Metallic (699), Jet Green Metallic (Z6H) and Anthracite Brown Metallic (M8S).

    This theme continues in the interior: three stripes of colour also adorn the centre of the door panels. The centre panels of the front seats also form a contrast to the black leather upholstery, and are colour-blocked in Slate Grey, Agave Green and Island Green. The cross-stitching in Island Green is another eye-catcher in the interior. These elaborately hand-stitched seams can be found at the top of the dashboard, in the door panels, and in the side panels in the rear. The all-leather luggage compartment underlines the elegant character of this 911 Turbo S.

    The equipment list for this Sonderwunsch model includes almost 50 items. A very special detail, however, is available free of charge for each unique item: the Sonderwunsch mark. This also indicates the year in which the respective project was completed. Inspired by the historic Manufacturer’s World Champion decals of the 1970s, the round marking is positioned in the rear side window on the driver’s side. In the 911 Turbo S showcased here, the marking is also embossed into the lid of the storage compartment on the centre console.

    About Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur

    Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur and Porsche Classic enhance and restore unique sports cars with a combination of skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail. As part of its strategy, the sports car manufacturer is reinterpreting its legendary Sonderwunsch programme from the late 1970s, which will enable it to design individualised, one-off cars – co-created by the customer and professionally produced by Porsche.

    This range of services encompasses the areas of Factory Commissioning for individual customer colour and material requests directly in production, as well as subsequent Factory Re-Commissioning, and Factory One-Off after vehicle delivery to the customer. Whereas Factory Re-Commissioning is all about individual colours and materials, the Factory One-Off service is a systematic new technical development. Depending on the vehicle’s age, the technical experts at Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur or Porsche Classic take care of implementation.

  • Championship-Winning Pedigree Comes to Road with Latest TAG Model by Lanzante

    Championship-Winning Pedigree Comes to Road with Latest TAG Model by Lanzante

    [source: Lanzante]

    In less than six weeks, British automotive engineering specialists Lanzante will pull the covers off the ultimate celebration of Formula 1 performance for the road. The TAG Championship by Lanzante. The lightweight model marries the iconic Porsche 930 Turbo body shape with the ultimate motorsport powerplant, in a specially designed and engineered collection of just three cars. The first of these will debut at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

    Stripped back to the bare essentials, the TAG Championship models are built to celebrate the three back-to-back titles achieved by McLaren during the dominant 1980s era, powered by Porsche-built, period TAG power units with genuine race heritage. Each of the three cars will be named by driver and year.

    The Championship model is a further enhancement over the TAG Turbo by Lanzante, previously displayed at Goodwood Festival of Speed. This was a modern reimagining of the one-off car, originally built by McLaren, which coupled the 1980s Porsche 911 with a TAG-branded, Porsche-built, V6 twin turbo Formula 1 engine.

    The TAG Championship by Lanzante honours the outrageous power and performance of the golden era of Formula 1, while utilising state-of-the-art motorsport technology and extensive use of carbon fibre helping to minimise weight. This crash diet sees the TAG Championship tip the scales at just 920kg – an impressive saving of more than 430kg over the original 930 Turbo donor car.

    At its heart, each of the specially developed road legal models are fitted with a genuine Formula 1 engine. And not just any engine. The three cars are built with genuine race-used examples of the TAG TTE P01 1.5-litre V6 twin turbo, which claimed three consecutive world titles for McLaren with Niki Lauda and Alain Prost. The car being displayed – Championship ’85 – houses an engine raced across the 1984, ’85 and ’86 seasons, claiming two podiums for Alain Prost during 1985, when he took the first of his four world championship titles.

    The 1980s period units have been reengineered and built by engine experts Cosworth, with all works certified by McLaren. Upgrades and enhancements include new pistons, conrods, valves and valve springs, revised cams, a new airbox, new cooling, a new exhaust system, and newly developed lightweight titanium turbos. These new turbo housings alone contribute 8kgs in weight saving.

    The engineering changes have delivered a power unit that revs to 10,250rpm, increased power to 625hp, and a top speed of 200mph. Power is transferred to the road via a custom Porsche 993 six-speed gearbox with bespoke ratios.  Despite the upgrades, however, the TAG Championship has retained all of its driveability, running on regular fuel, and remains fully road legal.

    The overall package of the Championship model is more focused towards the Formula 1 cars which they pay homage to, with subtle details across the interior and exterior. This is in contrast to the TAG Turbo by Lanzante model, which was closely matched to the original car built by McLaren.

    With a stiffened Porsche 930 Turbo chassis at its core, the TAG Championship models feature extensive use of motorsport-borne technology. Body panels including the bonnet, doors, front wings, front splitter, roof, bumpers and rear wing are all formed from lightweight Formula 1-grade carbon fibre, the brakes have been upgraded to a bespoke, full carbon ceramic system, and an all-new Formula 1 wiring loom is now fitted, along with a new ECU from Cosworth.

    Careful attention has also been paid to the finish of the bodywork. The paintwork has been carefully matched to the design of Prost’s 1985 helmet design, shown alongside the bare carbon finish, mirroring the style of the original MP4/2B racecar. Exposed carbon is now used for the large 1980’s-style bumpers, in place of the traditional rubber finish. Mirroring the original race car, the finished car sits on larger versions of the original racecar’s black wheels. Built by the Dymag, the same as the original versions, the 18-inch magnesium and carbon rims are now shod with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres.

    Complete with rollcage, the stripped-out interior has removed several comfort features in the name of weight saving, including the electric mirrors and electric windows, while a lightweight climate control system has been installed. A pair of carbon-backed lightweight Recaro seats are complemented by BOSS-branded, black and white six-point harnesses. A Personal-branded, suede steering wheel, with white stitching, adds the finishing touch, echoing the title-winning MP4/2 racecars.

    TAG Championship by Lanzante specification

    EngineTAG TTE P01 1.5-litre V6 twin turbo
    TransmissionPorsche 993 six-speed gearbox with bespoke ratios
    ElectronicsCosworth ECU, Raychem Formula 1 wiring loom
    ChassisPorsche 930 Turbo with bespoke rollcage
    Braking systemPorsche 930 Turbo braking system including four-pot calipers front and rear with carbon ceramic discs (322 x 31 front / 322 x 27 rear); bespoke pedal box
    Wheels and tyres18-inch Dymag magnesium and carbon rim, Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres (235/40R18 front, 275/35R18 rear)
    Fuel tankMotorsport bag tank, 80 litres
    LightingNew lighting throughout, including LED headlamps with integrated indicators
    Weight920kg, not including fuel and driver


    The TAG Championship by Lanzante will make its public debut at the opening day of the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, Thursday 11 July.

  • Jörg Bergmeister Pays Homage to Racing History with Sonderwunsch Porsche 911 GT3 RS

    Jörg Bergmeister Pays Homage to Racing History with Sonderwunsch Porsche 911 GT3 RS

    Porsche Brand Ambassador Jörg Bergmeister turns to Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur and the Sonderwunsch team to create a 911 GT3 RS worthy of a 24-hour winner.

    [source: Porsche AG]

    The afternoon of 2 February, 2003, was a historic day for Porsche. When a privately entered 911 GT3 RS crossed the line at the Daytona International Speedway, it had not only won its class at one of the toughest and most prestigious endurance events on the international sports car calendar, but in so doing had beaten all-comers to take an unprecedented overall victory.

    One of the drivers that day was Jörg Bergmeister, a graduate of Carrera Cup competing in only his second 24-hour race at Daytona. Alongside him were Michael Schrom, Timo Bernhard and team owner Kevin Buckler, whose 996-generation customer racer was entered by TRG or ‘The Racer Group’ and finished in the team’s now familiar blue and yellow livery.

    Fast forward two decades and the teammates are now old friends in regular contact. And when the new 911 GT3 RS was announced in August 2022, a seed was sown by Schrom that would lead Bergmeister on an 18-month journey to a unique and a deeply personal car of his own design.

    “The idea came from Michael Schrom”

    “The idea actually came from Michael in the summer of 2022,” Bergmeister says. “When he heard about the new GT3 RS he pointed out that the following year was the 20th anniversary of our win at Daytona in a GT3 RS. It was perfect timing.”

    Bergmeister was able to secure an allocation for a GT3 RS with the provision for all-important Paint to Sample. His Daytona winner was painted in Rivierablue, a colour that had been with the driver since his earliest days racing Formula cars in his native Germany. Working closely with Porsche’s Sonderwunsch team, a design was gradually created that would closely replicate the original livery while introducing a number of unique elements to commemorate the anniversary of that special win.

    Panels in Rivierablue

    Bergmeister specified a car without the bare carbon Weissach Package in order to paint all the panels in the correct Rivierablue. Exterior elements in contrasting Racing Yellow were applied to match those on the TRG race winner and the rear wing was painted in white with side plates in Racing Yellow. On the underside of the rear wing, a Porsche crest was also applied, while further exterior touches included the model name on the rear deck and foil decals on the car’s flanks in matching Racing Yellow.

    Inside, Bergmeister specified extended black leather with stitching in contrasting GT Silver and additional Race-Tex covering the dash. The car was also ordered with the Club Sports package that includes a one-kilogram road-legal fire extinguisher, another nod to its thoroughbred predecessor. But the most striking feature of the interior would be the unique carbon fibre door sill panel, the lettering on which emulates the engraving on the Rolex watches awarded to winners of the 24 Hours of Daytona.

    After a year-long wait, Bergmeister was finally presented with his bespoke GT3 RS in Zuffenhausen in mid-February, by happy coincidence on his 48th birthday. He credits Sandy-Marc Bauer from International VIP & Special Sales and Boris Apenbrink, Director Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur Vehicles and Options, and his dedicated team with the successful realisation of his dream.

    “A lot of people were involved with this project,” Bergmeister says, “helping to get all the little details on there. And everyone who has seen the car since and knows the story behind it really likes it.”

    The car is now receiving full paint protection before its maiden outing, with Bergmeister eager for the drier conditions of spring to arrive. “I can’t wait to drive it but first the weather needs to get better. I’m definitely not going to take it out on salty winter roads. It’s a little too precious to me to be a daily driver!”

    When the right day arrives, it is certain to be a poignant moment for everyone involved. “I’m still proud of what we achieved back then at Daytona, and this car has brought back those memories already. I’m not usually that emotional, but when I first saw it I got goose bumps. I feel so fortunate that it’s finally done and I’m super-stoked with how it’s turned out.”

  • Singer Celebrates 300th Restoration in California

    Singer Celebrates 300th Restoration in California

    Los Angeles, CA – The 300th Porsche 911 reimagined by Singer – Classic Study has been completed in California.

    The 1990 Porsche 911 was restored in collaboration with its owner who has named their car the ‘Sotto’ commission. This car is an example of Singer’s personalization services and love affair with the 911. Its specification represents requests made by its owner. 

    1990 Porsche 911 Targa (Type 964)

    • Presented with carbon fiber bodywork in Resistance Blue with ghosted side stripes
    • Bespoke interior trimmed in Orange leather with black stitching
    • Lightweight carbon fiber track seats with woven leather centers and nickel grommets
    • 4.0L, naturally aspirated, air-cooled flat six, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission sending power to the rear wheels
    • Carbon ceramic brakes
    • Titanium sports exhaust 

    The milestone represents Singer’s careful but steady growth since its founding in 2009. Singer now employs over 600 people across world-class teams in California and the UK. On behalf of its global clientele, Singer brings together beauty, craftsmanship and innovation.

    Overview
    Founded in California in 2009, Singer has become famous for its celebration of the Porsche 911. The company undertakes bespoke restorations for owners of the air-cooled cars.

    Singer is guided by a philosophy that encompasses:

    • A passionate focus on iconic design and a homage to the world’s most iconic sportscars.
    • Highly personalized restorations with superlative attention to detail, guided by the mantra Everything is Important.
    • Modern engineering and material science combined with beautifully executed interiors and jewel-like details.
    • A deep connection with California and its automotive zeitgeist.

    Singer is now synonymous with the concept of Reimagining – bringing together heritage with twenty-first century engineering and material science.

    About Singer Group, Inc.
    Singer Group, Inc. (Singer) restores and reimagines 1989 to 1994 Porsche 911s, based on the 964 chassis at the direction of its clients.  Singer does not manufacture or sell automobiles. 

    Singer is not sponsored, associated, approved, endorsed nor, in any way, affiliated with Porsche Cars North America, Inc., or Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche, AG. The Porsche® name and crest, 911® and TARGA® are trademarks of Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AG, and any other products mentioned are the trademarks of their respective holders. Any mention of trademarked names or other marks is for purpose of reference only. 

    The product of Singer’s painstaking effort is a Porsche 911 restored and reimagined by Singer.  Out of respect for Porsche, and to respect Porsche’s trademark rights, this incredible machine should never under any circumstances be referred to or described as a “Singer,” “Singer 911,” “Singer Porsche 911” or a “Porsche Singer 911,” or in any other manner that suggests that it is anything but a Porsche 911 that has been restored and reimagined by Singer.