Porsche Classic teases ‘restomod’
Rumours are rife that Porsche Classic is to move into the so-called 911 ‘restomod’ market with a new model known only as Project Gold.
Incorporating features from historic 930, 964 and 993 series 911s, the new car has been glimpsed in four short videos released online, with more expected to follow up to the car’s unveiling on Thursday 27 September.
As Porsche continues its 70th birthday celebrations (and prepares for the Goodwood Revival), the 911 Gold has been seen as a further expansion of its Classic operations. Earlier this year, it introduced 3D-printed parts to replenish stocks of hard-to-find spares.
Its Classic Partner Dealership Network is well-established in the UK, and has been running restoration competitions for franchisees since 2014.
With more and more manufacturers looking to bank on their historic models – witness the likes of Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar Land Rover and Fiat-Chrysler Automobiles, among others – the ‘restomod’ market, where classic vehicles are restored to an uprated performance specification, are the latest frontier for manufacturers.
Porsche Cars Great Britain would not confirm or deny the intended market for the 911 Gold – but club reaction so far has been favourable.
Sean Smallman of the Independent Porsche Enthusiasts’ Club (TIPEC) said:
‘It is becoming more of a trend to personalise cars; concours has died down over the last ten years or so. Detailing has become very important, however competition scoring of cleanliness and originality is not as popular.’