The brand new technology of 911 got here onto the market in 1989, concurrently the G-series was being phased out. Whereas it largely retained the form of its predecessor, the 964 contained 85 % new elements and had a lot better aerodynamics. It was the primary 911 to characteristic all-wheel drive (Carrera 4 kind), too. A a lot lighter rear-wheel-drive Carrera 2 arrived in 1990 and shortly grew to become the largest vendor. Its 3.6-litre usually aspirated flat-six produced 250bhp.

Regardless of these iconic sports activities automobiles changing into extremely wanted in their very own proper, it’s not unusual for firms to make ‘restomods’ out of them. These machines provide the most effective of each worlds by combining classie styling with fashionable consolation, efficiency, and reliability.

One of the crucial revered specialists is Los Angeles-based Singer Automobile Design, based by Rob Dickinson – an ex-car designer and singer-songwriter (former member of British rock band Catherine Wheel) – in 2009. The corporate’s motto is “every little thing is vital”, a reference to its design philosophy during which no side of the automobile is neglected.

All Singers are based mostly on 964-series automobiles. Many of the bodywork is changed with carbonfibre physique panels fabricated to motor sport-grade specs, whereas the cabin is totally retrimmed. The chassis is stripped naked and seam-welded, bespoke suspension is fitted and the engine is reworked by engine producers comparable to Cosworth, Ed Pink Racing Engines, and Williams, to be able to produce considerably extra energy.

Every automobile takes round 4000 hours to finish, going nicely past the element and stage of end of a typical high-end ground-up restoration. Regardless of averaging $650,000 (not together with the donor automobile), demand for Singer’s distinctive 911 interpretations far outstrips provide. Even when you have been to place your cash down now, you would possibly get one in two years’ time.

This specific instance that I photoed on the Concours of Magnificence 2020, registered 23 SL, relies on a 1991 964, and was ‘reimagined’ by Singer in 2016. It’s a homage to the enduring 917 race automobile, which introduced Porsche its first win on the Le Mans 24 Hours in 1970 with Hans Herrmann and Richard Attwood on the wheel. Completed in Bahia Purple, that is the 57th Porsche customized constructed by Singer, and places out an unbelievable 350bhp-plus.

ENGINE

3.8-litre, flat-six, double overhead camshaft, 350bhp-plus, gasoline injection

CONFIGURATION

Rear engine, five-speed guide gearbox, rear-wheel drive, 964 chassis and carbonfibre panels, customized suspension, disc brakes