PORSCHE GB’S BOXSTER RESTORACE SERIES
986 celebration
Hard to believe it, but it’s 22 years since the 986 Boxster first appeared. To celebrate that fact and also tie in with Porsche’s wider 70-year anniversary this year, Porsche Centres across the UK network have been locating and restoring Type-986 Boxster S models. The cars will then compete in a mini race series around the UK.
“After three successful restoration competitions, we wanted to do something different in partnership with our Centre network to celebrate 20 years of the Porsche Boxster,” says James Toye, Business Development Manager, Porsche Cars GB. “The first generation, Type-986 Boxster is an important car in Porsche history and for many their first step in ownership. Our intention is to illustrate not only how good these cars still are, but also give the Centres a cool opportunity to demonstrate their skill, knowledge and passion for Porsche – and Porsche Classic in particular.”
With that in mind, the idea is to run the cars as close to road spec as possible. The only concessions involve motorsport safety and driver protection – plus the addition of a hard top. The chassis spec will be the M030 factory sport option and the engines in standard circa-250hp tune.
The Porsche Centres’ cars will be judged on various elements of their restoration including mechanical, body and paint preparation. However, the added challenge is not just to restore the car but to prepare a driver and take to the track in an iconic, Porsche-inspired classic livery. The driver line-up is varied, with Centre Principals taking the wheel of some entries alongside junior Technicians. Some will be seasoned competitors, others will be track day veterans, while liveries will include everything from the red and white ‘Salzburg’ livery of the 1970 Le Mans winning 917 to the light-hearted ‘Pink Pig’ identity of 1971.
The first instalment of the series at Brand Hatch has been and gone. But if you’re quick you can catch the action on 2nd June at Silverstone, followed by 2nd September at Brands Hatch. Both events are part of Porsche Club GB Championship weekends. Thus these 16 mechanically-identical Boxsters will be racing among faster categories of Porsche. Straight in at the deep end, then, and a proper challenge for both car and driver. The final event at Brand Hatch also ties in with the Festival of Porsche being held that weekend. One for the diary, for sure.