where people and cars meet
UPPER HEYFORD, UK (August 8, 2023) – Everrati Automotive Limited (Everrati™), the leading technology company specialising in redefining and futureproofing of automotive icons through the integration of cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) powertrains, is proud to be taking part in the prestigious Monterey Car Week, with an impressive Porsche showcase in the Concours Village, at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Continue reading
Silverstone, 20 July 2015 – When you’re buying your dream classic car, it’s crucial to arm yourself with expert knowledge – which is why Silverstone Auctions has put together a new buyers’ guide ahead of its sale at the Silverstone Classic this weekend.
Presented by classic car collector, Harry Metcalfe, and filmed at Porsche specialists Autofarm, the video puts a pair of incredible 911s, a 1972 2.4 S and 1991 964 RS, under intense scrutiny before they go under the hammer at the Silverstone Classic sale on 24-26 July*.
Metcalfe, one of the founders of performance car magazine, evo, and most recently best known for YouTube channel Harry’s Garage, shares his years’ of experience in buying and selling classic cars. He shows viewers what to look for when buying a Porsche 911, a model that has seen unprecedented growth in the classic car market in recent years.
Focussing first on the 1972 Porsche 911 2.4 S, Metcalfe walks viewers around the car, looking at tell-tell signs of originality and even how to age the car by its oil filler cover. As probably the best example of its type on the market right now, Metcalfe doesn’t uncover any issues – but points out the importance of original paint and where to spot ‘hidden’ repairs.
With an estimated auction price of £130,000 – £150,000, Metcalfe explains why this original and unmolested example, complete with extensive history and provenance, is a perfect collector’s piece for any enthusiast. The car will go under the hammer on Saturday 25 July.
At the other end of the spectrum, he turns his focus to a 1991 Porsche 964 RS N/GT. This 1991 example, also in the Saturday 25 July sale, was one of the first cars off the production line as the first-ever N/GT (Clubsport) car made. Due to its exclusivity, this 964 RS is a collector’s dream.
Marked out by its roll cage, racing bucket seats and omitted ‘creature comforts’ such as air-conditioning and carpets the car has had a very interesting history, being gifted to Porsche-only endurance racing driver Ulrich Richter. Metcalfe tells the story of this very special car while also looking at ways to check its originality.
Having recently been treated to an engine overhaul as well as a glass-out respray in factory Maritime Blue paint, Metcalfe shows how to look for accident damage including panel gaps and removal of vital stickers marking its authenticity. With an estimate of £230,000 – £260,000, this driver-focussed 964 RS is regarded as one of the most exciting examples offered on the open market.
Nick Whale, managing director of Silverstone Auctions, says: “It is a delight to be able to present these two iconic air-cooled 911s for sale, alongside many other important Porsches in the Silverstone Classic Sale this week. Condition, history and provenance are some of the most important factors to consider when buying a classic car – and indeed when selling one, too. These examples are testament to why I have enjoyed buying and selling the Porsche marque for many years.
“Harry has worked with us at Silverstone Auctions, since buying his Ferrari Testarossa at last years Silverstone Classic sale. He is a well-respected member of the classic car community and I am humbled that he could take the time to share a fraction of his knowledge in this video. I’m sure you’ll see a lot more from him, as well as a few more high-quality cars for sale in the future.”
For the full list of lots available in The Silverstone Classic Sale, please visit:
www.silverstoneauctions.com/the-silverstone-classic-sale-2015/view_lots
It was ‘California dreaming’ for Peter and Zoe Lovett when they crossed the San Francisco finish line as overall winners of the Endurance Rally Association’s Trans-America Challenge, as it’s their second long distance rally win this year.
Competing in their 1973 Porsche 911T for the 22-day rally across Canada and America, the Lovett’s also won the inaugural Road to Mandalay Rally back in February behind the wheel of another Porsche.
The pair had been hot on the wheels of the longtime leaders Phil Garratt and Kieron Brown in the 1977 Triumph Stag, constantly in the top three since the off. When the Stag had mechanical problems on day 17, the Lovett’s took the top spot and finished with an overall total of 0:09:07.
In second place was Paul and Sandra Merryweather in the 1974 Mercedes 450 SL on 0:10:05, with Philip and Yvonne Haslam in the 1954 Jaguar XK120 DHC right behind them in third place with 0:10:11.
The 1927 Bentley 4½ Le Mans of Martin and Olivia Hunt won the Vintageant Class, while there were also class wins for Marco Halter and Claudia Engelhardt in the 1963 Ford Falcon Coupe, and David and Jo Roberts in the 1968 Triumph TR250.
Two special ‘Spirit of the Rally’ awards were presented during the prizegiving at the iconic Fairmont Hotel. The first went to Malaysia’s Hok Kiang Sia and Eric Kuan Rong Sia who had battled through the rally in their 1934 Rolls Royce Phantom II, the biggest car on the event.
The second went to Richard Martin and Travis Cole who started the rally in a 1936 Alvis Speed 25 but ended up on a recovery truck on the first day. After a few days in a rental car, the crew purchased an unprepared Datsun 240z in Duluth and then set about having parts and spares delivered to each hotel they stayed at to create a rally car by the end of the event. Now a fully prepared rally car, the Datsun will be the car of choice on next year’s Rally of the Incas.
ERA Rally Director Fred Gallagher said: “This has been another superb event with a fantastic mix of cars, crews and driving skills. Our Clerk of the Course Kim Bannister planned a brilliant route which offered iconic scenery, competitive tests and challenging terrain – everything you could hope for in an event such as this.”
Around 40 vintage and classic cars arrived at the San Francisco finish line of the Endurance Rally Association’s second Trans-America Challenge, having crossed 15 states and travelled 9,500 kilometres by its end.
The route has used testing roads and enjoyed spectacular views as it has used America’s roads less travelled, while still finding time to visit iconic locations such as the Battle of Little Bighorn site and Mount Rushmore.
The cars involved range from a 1927 Bentley 4½-litre to a 1977 Triumph Stag, and the crews include the world’s oldest rally navigator – 97-year-old Dorothy Caldwell.
The Trans-America Challenge is the Endurance Rally Association’s third rally of 2015, with two more to follow. The Alpine Trial for pre-war cars takes place early September, while the Sahara Challenge is revived for October as a shakedown for next year’s Peking to Paris. The next Trans-America Challenge will take place in 2018 with an exciting new route.
To find out more about the ERA’s events, visit www.endurorally.com.
LOS ANGELES – April 29, 2015 – While showcasing the rarest of collectible vehicles is always a first priority at any major Concours event, this year’s Pinehurst Concours d’Elegance will be the first official Concours in the nation to display something equally as rare – a 1990, 911 Carrera 2 (model 964), that has been fully optimized by Singer Vehicle Design (SVD), demonstrating the creative possibilities within the vibrant world of the classic automobile and noting the first SVD ‘customer’ vehicle to be displayed at a Concours event.
Singer’s philosophy — blending tradition with modernity to re-create bespoke, one-of-a-kind masterpieces to each customer’s desires within perfectly optimized air-cooled Porsche 911s – will be underscored in the highly modified “Virginia” car, to be shown at the third annual Pinehurst Concours d’Elegance, on Saturday, May 2nd at the Pinehurst Golf Resort in North Carolina (www.pinehurstconcours.com). “Virginia” will be displayed within a grouping of notable and historic Porsches preserved by the discerning Durham-based Ingram Collection. A more intimate viewing of “Virginia” will occur at various exclusive evening functions including the ‘Chairman’s Dinner’ during the Concours weekend.
With only a handful of vehicles restored by Singer Vehicle Design residing in the United States, the “Virginia” car, named for its intended geographic home, is a wonderful blend of elegance and luxury sport that creates an entirely new canvas for the brand. According to Rob Dickinson, creative director and founder of Singer Vehicle Design, while each vehicle begins with a classic 964 chassis, it’s the customization aspect that each owner fully engages in that makes each car truly unique.
“Each machine we work with has its own special touches,” said Dickinson. “As an example, ‘Virginia’ is the first of the cars we’ve restored that wears the full ‘Touring’ trim on the bumpers and rockers and is the only vehicle to date where a customer has chosen to align an exterior of metallic Fish Silver paint with Sand-Beige interior leather weave – but the true magic really comes alive visually in the ‘checkerboard’-esque look of the interior – we’ve used a slightly lighter suede to create a truly graphic effect. For us, it’s those nuances, personified by our attention to detail that matter most – because our mantra remains that everything is important.”
Details for the ‘Virginia’ car include a 3.8, 350hp, Cosworth-developed engine, KW suspension, big brakes, roll-hoop, harness-bar, clip-on rear backrests, raised gold rear PORSCHE letters, as well as the ‘Sport’-looking External Oil and Center-fill Fuel caps. Dickinson notes that while these sporty details may be an unusual combination amidst the Touring trim and metallic paint, they blend elegantly with the plush leather-trimmed interior panels. For images, please view: http://singervehicledesign.com/gallery/the-machines/virginia/
While the Singer brand has become synonymous with truly bespoke customization services for automotive enthusiasts, which as Dickinson contends, borders on obsession – it is indeed the uniqueness of each handcrafted vehicle that currently make fans worldwide covet a viewing, while longing for a drive. With limited availability and an 8-10 month restoration cycle, vehicles have more recently been commissioned by Porsche owners in Hong Kong, Moscow, Canada, England, Germany, New Zealand, Norway and the UK.
“We are streamlining our services to reflect the increased demand for our work,” said Dickinson. But even with recent updates to the Singer facility, Dickinson contends that the unique level of personalization and customization remains. New capabilities enabled to capture additional customer choices include an upgraded 4.0-liter engine developed by Ed Pink Engineering and the forthcoming restoration of a 964 Targa model, to be shown later this year.
Singer Background:
SVD, through its own hand-crafted artistry, restores cars for a global audience and is prepared to remain on the cutting edge for restorative work. Dickinson’s company redefines the magic of air-cooled technology by restoring a vintage icon into a coveted piece of automotive exclusivity.
Working with key Southern California-based partners – such as internationally-renowned motorsport engineers, Ed Pink Racing Engines and Mirage International, together with globally-recognized composite experts, Aria Group – Singer has gained invaluable experience that guarantees world-class standards. Ed Pink, Mirage and Aria share in Singer’s passion for restoring the iconic air-cooled Porsche 911®for its customers.
SVD’s vision involves taking a customer’s existing 964 model Porsche 911 (from 1990-1994) vehicle and performing both restorative work and cutting–edge modifications to update the cars’ performance, aesthetics and modern day use-ability in an attempt to optimize its strengths, while preserving the essence and magic of the original.
“This is a celebration of Porsche’s genius,” said Dickinson. SVD begins with a customer’s car and repatriates the 911 chassis of the early ‘90’s with the most beautiful Ferdinand ‘Butzi’ Porsche coachwork from 1964. The goal is to preserve a moment in time for the owner and capture a snapshot of the air-cooled period of the Porsche 911. Dickinson concludes, “The essence of the Porsche 911 is vivid and unique –we’re simply trying to bottle and preserve it for our customer to savor.’’
Pricing and How to Acquire Singer’s Services:
Singer works collaboratively with each owner to restore, optimize and personalize their machine to their specific tastes. A typical restoration takes approximately 10 months to complete.
SVD prices reflect a no-expense-spared content, performance and design philosophy and meticulous standards, with prices starting at $395,000 to acquire Singer’s serves to comprehensively restore and optimize the owner’s Porsche 911®, and typical pricing surpassing the $450K mark.
After a successful haul in our $2,000,000 Amelia Island Challenge, we’re heading south to the Auctions America sale in Fort Lauderdale. Our Petrolhead Godmother continues with her generosity; this time with $1,000,000 to play with this weekend. Using Auction America’s HIGH estimate, choose one or choose several cars (no motorbikes or automobilia) that you would like to bring home. We’ll get started:
Lot 108 — 1973 Peugeot 504 Cabriolet
Estimate $30,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $13,500 including premium
Featured in a Pick Of The Day last year, this is an presentable example of a car rarely seen on these shores. While it shows signs of wear and previous body repairs, this Peugeot 504 has had recent paint and is a complete example of a classic Pininfarina styling.
Lot 177 — 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante
Estimate $150,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $151,250 including premium 
Not much information is in the catalog beyond the history of the V8 as a model, but this looks to be a rather tidy example, complete with books and tools. Although it is an automatic, it would still make for some very pleasant open touring.
Lot 226 — 1989 Porsche 911 Turbo (930)
Estimate $85,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $82,250 including premium
Although we aren’t given an odometer reading other than its condition belies the miles, this looks to be an excellent original example of a one-year-only 5-speed 930. Its high estimate would appear to be a bargain relative to other 1989s in like condition (not to mention the 1976 model that runs earlier in the day, estimated at $200,000).
Lot 317 — 1935 Ford Model A “Ratrod’ Pickup
Estimate $40,000
UPDATE: STILL FOR SALE high bid $26,000
This is another one of those lots that we’d chase only when Petrolhead Godmother is footing the bill, but that said, it is dandy. Powered by a 350 V8, its steel body has been chopped, stanced, channeled and dropped. Period wheels and tires cover front disc brakes. A very nicely built blend of bootleg-era looks and contemporary performance.
Lot 356 — 1949 Cadillac Series 61 Club Coupe Sedanette
Estimate $65,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $55,000 including premium 
The C-Body Cadillacs of 1948 and 1949 brought together big advances in engineering with the overhead-valve V8 and alluring looks. Here we see the first nubs of Harley Earl’s tailfins punctuating a sleek and graceful body, particularly in the fastback “Sedanette” form. This one form 1949 was a former barn find restored to its current condition with a rebuilt original drivetrain. It’s a positively gorgeous American cruiser that is said to drive quite well.
Lot 472 — 1981 Renault R5 Turbo
Estimate $75,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $49,500 including premium 
The Renault R5 Turbo is in many ways an answer to a question no-one was asking. It’s a completely insane answer, yet it makes perfect sense at the same time. Take a pedestrian Renault R5 (what we might remember as Le Car) and transform it into a mid-engined beast that eats supercars for breakfast. This example looks to have been restored at some point to what appears to be a high degree, yet appears to have been used as intended which is to drive the merde out of it. What’s not to love?
Lot 486 — 1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary
Estimate $425,000
UPDATE: STILL FOR SALE high bid of $320,000
Petrolhead Godmother always says, “if you get thrown from a bull, get right back on.” We missed out on the Lamborghini Countach 5000S Quattrovalvole at Gooding and Company’s Amelia Island sale earlier this month, thus we’re somewhat compelled to try again. This time it’s the ultimate expression of the Countach, the coveted 25th Anniversary model. This one shows beautifully in its classic Italian combination of red on tan. With a recent service and less than 21,000 km, it promises to be appropriately raging.
Lot 622 — 1948 MG TC
Estimate $52,000
UPDATE: STILL FOR SALE high bid $37,500 
Few capture the charm of early British motoring the way an MG TC does. Future TDs and TFs were already becoming too modern. This one from 1948 has been used sparingly since undergoing an older high quality restoration. It condition remains show worthy, but this little thing begs to be thrown on the open road, only stopping for a picnic. The Clipper Blue finish is a nice departure as well.
We came to a total of $922,000. Buyer’s premiums will put us slightly over the million dollar mark, but once again we’ll err on the side of excess when spending the Petrolhead Godmother’s money. Let us know what your picks are in comments.
For the complete Auctions America Fort Lauderdale 2015 results click here.
Atlanta. The new Porsche 911 GT3 RS breaks down the barrier between road-going sports cars and race cars. It is equipped with the maximum amount of motorsport technology that is currently possible in a street-legal 911 suitable for everyday driving. Extensive modifications to its drivetrain, aerodynamics, and lightweight design take performance to an even higher level than the 911 GT3. With a Nuerburgring Nordschleife lap time of seven minutes and 20 seconds, the new 911 GT3 RS surpasses the 911 GT3 by five seconds, making it the fastest current generation 911 on the famous German racetrack. The 911 GT3 RS is celebrating its world premiere at the 2015 Geneva International Motor Show.
Motorsport expertise is the driving force behind this superior performance. The 911 GT3 RS is powered by a four-liter six-cylinder engine developing 500 hp and 338 lb.-ft. of torque, combined with a specially developed PDK transmission. The engine has the largest displacement and most power of any naturally aspirated engine with direct fuel injection in the 911 family, accelerating the high-performance sports car from zero to 60 miles per hour in 3.1 seconds and propelling it through the quarter mile on the track in 11.2 seconds. Functions such as declutching by “paddle neutral” – which is comparable to pressing the clutch with a conventional manual gearbox – and speed limiting via the Pit Speed button have been adapted from motorsport use. They give drivers more freedom in terms of driving dynamics, while providing them with a maximum level of control and engagement.
The 911 GT3 RS is a masterpiece of intelligent lightweight design. For the first time, the roof is made of magnesium; carbon fiber is used for the engine and luggage compartment lids, and other components are made of weight saving materials. This makes the RS model around 22 pounds (10 kilograms) lighter than the 911 GT3. Furthermore, the lightweight roof lowers the sports car’s center of gravity which improves its already excellent lateral dynamics. The body comes from the 911 Turbo, and it signifies its status as a race-inspired driving machine with its RS-specific aerodynamic enhancements. The front spoiler lip, which sits close to the ground, and the large rear wing reinforce its dominant look.
A 30 centimeter wide recess extends centrally over the CFRP hood and the magnesium roof. This feature is a stylistic reference to the recess on the luggage compartment lid of the classic 911 models with air-cooled engines, while highlighting the two largest lightweight components of the new 911 GT3 RS. Another characteristic is the unique front wheel arch air vents that extend into the upper section of the fenders – just like on purebred race cars. They increase downforce at the front axle.
The chassis of the 911 GT3 RS has been tuned for maximum driving dynamics and precision. Rear-axle steering and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus with fully variable rear axle differential lock increases agility and dynamics, and the wider track in front and at the rear reduces body roll even further than in the 911 GT3. In addition, the 911 GT3 RS comes with the widest tires of any 911 model. The results: even more agile turn-in characteristics, even sharper steering response, and even greater cornering speeds.
The interior design of the 911 GT3 RS with Alcantara® elements is based on the current 911 GT3. One key new feature is the full bucket seats, which are based on the carbon bucket seats from the 918 Spyder. The optional Sport Chrono Package features – in addition to its integrated timers – the Porsche Track Precision app for smartphone use. The Track Precision app can be used to have times automatically measured via GPS, and to log data on a smartphone for many driving parameters such as vehicle speed, lateral acceleration as well as deceleration and acceleration in the driving direction. It manages this data and lets the driver share and compare it with results from other drivers.
The 911 GT3 RS can be ordered now, and it will launch in the U.S. in early July of 2015. In the United States, the MSRP is $175,900, not including a $995 destination charge.
To mark the 50th anniversary of the 911 Targa, Porsche is offering this very popular model in the more powerful and dynamic GTS version for the first time. The concept of the 911 Targa 4 GTS delivers confident driving enjoyment with all-wheel drive and a Targa bar; it also delivers open-air fun with a fully automatic Targa top. Contributing to a boost in dynamic performance are the 430 hp GTS engine together with the standard Sport Chrono package, PASM chassis, 20-inch center lock wheels, and sport exhaust system.
Despite its significantly extended features, the power to weight ratio with the 430-hp engine was improved compared to the S model to less than 8 pounds per horsepower. This lets the Targa 4 GTS reach a top track speed of over 186 mph, and the stopwatch records 4.1 seconds for the sprint from zero to 60 mph when equipped with the PDK transmission.
Using the wider Carrera 4 body as all Targas do is the perfect starting point for the design of the new 911 Targa 4 GTS. The front is defined by the sport design front fascia with an opening for the auxiliary middle radiator and the tinted Bi-Xenon™ headlights that feature the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS). When viewed from the side, characteristic GTS attributes are the matte black 20-inch center lock 911 Turbo S wheels, the sport design side mirrors, and “GTS” signatures on the doors. The “targa” logo on the silver Targa bar is also finished in black. At the rear, black accents are finished with a glossy trim on the air inlet cover and chrome exhaust pipes, accompanied by the matte black model logo
GTS DNA also defines the interior of the 911 Targa 4 GTS. The stopwatch of the standard Sport Chrono package sits atop the dashboard. In the front, the four-way adjustable Sport seats Plus – with their black GTS logo on the head restraints – provide additional lateral support and long-distance cruising comfort for both driver and passenger. The dominant interior material is black Alcantara®, which is half the weight of leather.
The Targa has been an established member of the 911 lineup since it made its debut back in 1965. Around one out of eight 911 cars ever sold was a Targa. The market share of the latest generation of this exquisitely styled 911 with its characteristic Targa bar is 13 percent – and it is growing. With the 911 Targa 4 GTS, Porsche is extending its lineup of the modern classic by adding a top model whose extensive package of standard features and price are appealing.
The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS will be launched in the United States in late-April 2015. The MSRP for the 911 Targa 4 GTS is $132,800. MSRP does not include a destination charge of $995.
LOS ANGELES –November 13, 2014 – With the finest in technology and creativity at its core, Sun Valley, Calif.-based Singer Vehicle Design (SVD) demonstrates the evolution of the company’s restoration services. Singer’s philosophy — blending tradition with modernity to re-create bespoke, one-of-a-kind masterpieces to each customer’s desires within perfectly optimized air-cooled Porsche 911s. Two examples will be shown at the 2014 Connected Car Expo and MPG Motoring Invitational, November 18th and 19th, at the Los Angeles Convention Center, during the media kick-off to the annual Los Angeles Auto Show.
SVD, the dedicated restoration company that modifies existing vintage Porsche automobiles for discerning customers, has set the stage to make a very bold statement – with the combined display of the company founder’s very first restoration, a 1969 Porsche 911E affectionately known as “the Brown Bomber” and one of SVD’s recent re-imagined 911 machines, sometimes referred to as “Connecticut” for its destination. Invoking elements of both past heritage and future development, both vehicles clearly showcase the simple, yet extravagant, perfection that Porsche enthusiasts have come to appreciate in the vehicles that have been restored by SVD.
According to Rob Dickinson, creator and founder of SVD, while each 911 his company has modified seems to appeal to Porsche aficionados on a myriad of levels, the original “Brown Bomber” is the one that personifies the most emotion for himself. “As an Englishman coming to the U.S., I had little knowledge or experience in what would set the trends in LA” said Dickinson. “But I optimized the car of my dreams to the specifications that caught my own attention, and soon found that my own personal statement was appreciated by ‘Porsche-philes’ and car fanatics on a global level.”
In fact, Dickinson noted that the Brown Bomber could actually be described as the genesis for what eventually became known as Singer Vehicle Design. “This was a car that foreshadowed Singer but proved my ideas had a broad appeal,” said Dickinson. “And as a result, inspired us to form the company and take our unique services to the next level.”
And while the Singer brand has become synonymous with truly bespoke customization services for automotive enthusiasts, which as Dickinson contends, borders on obsession – it is indeed the uniqueness of each handcrafted vehicle that currently make fans worldwide covet a viewing, while longing for a drive. With limited availability and a 8-10 month restoration cycle, vehicles have more recently been commissioned by Porsche owners in Hong Kong, Moscow, Canada, England, Germany, New Zealand and Norway.
“We are streamlining our services to reflect the increased demand for our work,” said Dickinson. The unique level of personalization and customization remains, even with recent updates to the Singer facility.
1991 Porsche 911
The recently enhanced 1991 Porsche 911 that will make its home in Connecticut is a very highly specialized machine that includes a Cosworth developed 3.8L air-cooled flat-six engine producing 360 HP, coupled with a 6 speed gearbox and LSD. The car boasts suspension by Ohlins and upgraded braking by Brembo and of course signature carbon fiber bodywork, exquisite attention to detail and final execution described by many as ‘a work of art’. Each vehicle is restored by hand as a uniquely personalized and exquisite reflection of its owner’s dreams and desires. This particular owner selected a Downton Blue Exterior and Tobacco Brown Leatherweave interior.
1969 Porsche 911E
“The Brown Bomber,” built as a personal project for mixed road and track use from a 1969 Porsche 911E, was restored by Rob Dickinson and TRE Motorsports in Los Angeles. Drawing inspiration from the British “café racer” motorcycle scene, California hot-rod culture and the great Porsche road/race cars like the 911R, 911ST, Carrera RS and RSR, this machine marks the genesis of Dickinson’s belief – epitomizing the vision of a real gentleman’s racer for the road. With a Bahama Yellow exterior and Black Embossed vinyl interior, the ‘Brown Bomber’ sports a 1978 3.0L 911SC engine; 5-speed transmission; Bilstein suspension; Centre Race fuel filler; and Fuchs Wheels finished by Harvey Weidman.
Singer Background:
SVD, through its own hand-crafted artistry, restores cars for a global audience and is prepared to remain on the cutting edge for restorative work. Dickinson’s company redefines the magic of air-cooled technology by restoring a vintage icon into a coveted piece of automotive exclusivity.
Working with key Southern California-based partners – such as internationally-renowned motorsport engineers, Ed Pink Racing Engines and Mirage International, together with globally-recognized composite experts, Aria Group – Singer has gained invaluable experience that guarantees world-class standards. Ed Pink, Mirage and Aria share in Singer’s passion for restoring the iconic air-cooled Porsche 911®for its customers.
SVD’s vision involves taking a customer’s existing 964 model Porsche 911 (from 1990-1994) vehicle and performing both restorative work and cutting–edge modifications to update the cars’ performance, aesthetics and modern day use-ability in an attempt to optimize its strengths, while preserving the essence and magic of the original.
“This is a celebration of Porsche’s genius,” said Dickinson. SVD begins with a customer’s car and repatriates the 911 chassis of the early ‘90’s with the most beautiful Ferdinand ‘Butzi’ Porsche coachwork from 1964. The goal is to preserve a moment in time for the owner and capture a snapshot of the air-cooled period of the Porsche 911. Dickinson concludes, “The essence of the Porsche 911 is vivid and unique –we’re simply trying to bottle and preserve it for our customer to savor.’’
Pricing and How to Acquire Singer’s Services:
Singer works collaboratively with each owner to restore, optimize and personalize their machine to their specific tastes. A typical restoration takes approximately 10 months to complete.
SVD prices reflect a no-expense-spared content, performance and design philosophy and meticulous standards, with prices starting at $395,000 to acquire Singer’s services to comprehensively restore and optimize the owner’s Porsche 911®, and typical pricing surpassing the $450K mark.
About Singer Vehicle Design
Singer Vehicle Design (SVD) restores and modifies existing Porsche® automobiles for its customers. Singer does not manufacture or sell automobiles.
SVD 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 (www.porsche.com). The Porsche® name and crest 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®.
| VIN | WP0AD29917S783821 |
| Exterior | [L041] Black |
| Interior | [LE] Stone Grey Full Leather |
| Motor | 3.6 L Turbocharged H4 rated at 480 bhp |
| Gearbox | [G975] 6-Speed Manual |
| Exterior Condition | Excellent (2+) |
| Interior Condition | Outstanding (1) |
| Drivetrain | Excellent (2+ ) |
| Braking | Excellent (2) |
| Suspension/Ride | Excellent (2) |
| Tires/wheels | Very Good (3+) |
THE EVERYDAY SUPERCAR. Porsche Turbo. For four decades, those two words have evoked breathtaking performance, meticulous engineering and an assertive, sometimes audacious sense of style that has never been equaled. While each generation of the 911 Turbo aimed to one-up the previous one, perhaps the greatest leap came with the 997 model Turbo in 2007. It not only sported impressive numbers like 480 hp and 505 lb-ft of torque (with the Sports Chrono package), but it was the way in which that performance was applied. Porsche’s new Variable Turbine Geometry all but eliminated turbo lag and back pressure, thus the powerband of the twin-turbo 3.6-litre motor was unlike anything before in a turbocharged performance car (peak torque 1,950-5,000 RPM), virtually equal to one that is normally aspirated. Mated to a pinpoint 6-speed gearbox—the last generation to feature a manual—and the 997 Turbo Coupe delivers an exhilarating, driver-oriented experience. The 911 Turbo presented here is well optioned to further enhance that, including:
Massive Bridgestone Potenzas with very good tread (~75% remaining) surround the stock 19″ Turbo alloy wheels OR Gloss Black 19″ Tech Art Alloys. Combined with the Turbo Coupe’s standard adaptive AWD, 350mm inner-vented disc brakes with multi-piston monobloc calipers, and an alphabet soup’s worth of electronic driving aids, it makes for a incredibly civilized canyon carver or track-day darling.
OVERALL CONDITION
The first thing we notice about this 2007 Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe is the deep, brilliant shine of its all-original Black paint. It is near flawless and the pampering given by its two owners is evident in every detail. Likewise, the interior is showroom fresh. The full leather upholstery shows virtually no wear and is more indicative of a car with test-drive miles than one that’s been enjoyed for more than 60K. Again it’s a testament to the care it’s been given its entire life. Mechanically, it benefits from a fresh major service and is entirely free of leaks, smoke and unusual noises. Clutch and gearbox are taut with no signs of wear. The 997 Turbo’s electronic, variable-assisted steering is precise with no slop, while the stock suspension provides superb feedback, perfectly balancing the car’s blistering performance. The optional Tech Art wheels are flawless while the stock Turbo alloys show only one minor rash on one wheel. Both sets are shod with Bridgestone Potenzas, with very good tread on both (Turbo alloys ~75%; Tech Arts ~%70). This 911 Turbo Coupe truly is the best of both worlds. It presents like a garage queen, but fully recognizes—at its soul—that it is a Porsche and isn’t the least bit shy about being driven.
DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
In many ways, the Porsche 997 Turbo Coupe is the materialization of all things Porsche. It unmistakably carries the legacy of Ferdinand “Butzi” Porsche’s ideal of the “formally harmonious product” he envisioned when designing the 911, yet it is an awe-inspiring marvel of technology at the same time. The combination of its revolutionary Variable Turbine Geometry combined with a host of electronic driver aids like adaptive all-wheel-drive, Porsche Traction Management (PTM), Enhanced Porsche Stability Management (PSM), and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), to name a few, made this the most drivable turbocharged performance car ever. It is brute power delivered through an unprecedented range. It invites the driver to explore its limits but can also keep itself perfectly in check, should the driver choose not to challenge their abilities. Porsche 911 Twin Turbo Coupe No. 3821 takes that even further with the added torques from its Sports Chrono Plus package, as well other driver-oriented options like Adaptive Sports Seats and a thicker, multi-function three-spoke steering wheel. Despite the technological brilliance of the PDK gearbox found in the 997.2 and 991, there is and never will be a substitute for the supple yet crisp shifts of its optional short shifter working through manual gears. It is neck-snappingly quick—3.7 seconds to 60 MPH and a top speed of 193 MPH—putting it within a car’s length of exotics like the Ferrari Enzo, Lamborghini Murcielago and McLaren MP4-12C. Yet it’s a car that is equally at home hauling bags of mulch with pygmy relatives in the back seats. Creature comforts like cold air conditioning, power windows and sunroof, and a full leather interior make for a pleasant cockpit. Ride is firm but not punishing, steering easy at lower speeds without losing road feel, and fuel economy is decent to boot. Maintenance costs are more akin to its Audi and Volkswagen cousins than the supercars it is compared to on spec sheets. It is a car that provides staggering performance in a real-world package. Formally harmonious, you might say.
| VIN | WP0CB2968LS470358 |
| Exterior | [L700] Black |
| Interior | [LC] Beige Partial Leather |
| Motor | 3.6 L H6 rated at 247+ bhp |
| Gearbox | 5-Speed Manual |
| Odometer | 71,815 mi. |
THE PROOF IS IN THE PAMPERING. Bridging the gap between the classic “impact bumper” 911s like the SC and Carrera 3.2 and the more modern 993, the 964 is considered by many to be the best of both worlds. It closely resembles the iconic shape that dates back to the 911’s debut in 1964 while incorporating the sleek styling of the modern Porsches. It looks like a more aerodynamic Carrera 3.2 but according to Porsche, the 964 is over 90% new components; therefore it represents a milestone in the 911s history. Yet it naturally maintains the air-cooled motor (now enlarged to 3.6 liters and developing 247 bhp in stock form) with further air cooling provided by the convertible top. With meticulous records including original window sticker, this is an impeccably maintained, original, low-mileage car that exemplifies the 964 as every bit 911, but decidedly unique in character from those that came before or since.
OVERALL CONDITION
The first thing we notice about the car is its paint. It maintains an outstanding gloss and depth and has never seen any accident damage. It is perfectly straight with no dings, scratches or signs of rust whatsoever. A tremendous amount of care has been given throughout its ownership to preserve its integrity. The top is all original with clear rear window and canvas in near new condition, with only one small (1/2″) snag. Rubber is like new all around and was clearly kept out of heat and dryness. Inside, we find a partial leather interior that shows very little wear. There is just the right amount of patina, but no bolster wear and no cracks or tears. Controls and instruments all work properly including cold AC. Carpets are deep and thick. The motor, like any 3.6, is a beautiful piece of machinery, but one with under 72,000 original miles and fresh service is exceptionally beautiful. There are no valve guide issues or unusual pings, tings or other noises. With a Porsche-engineered intentional omission of head gaskets, early 964s were notorious leakers. As part of full disclosure, this one is no exception. However it is minimal, with only about a spoonful after sitting a few days. There is no smoke on startup and fires immediately, even after periods of dormancy. The transmission has also been serviced on schedule and is very solid with smooth, crisp linkages up and down through all gears. The factory D90 wheels are perhaps some of the nicest to feature on any 911 and these are in near flawless condition with no curb rash and excellent finish. They are shod with Bridgestone Potenzas that show very good life (80+% tread). This is an exceptionally nice and properly kept example of a 964.
Options
| 070 | Tonneau cover – Cabriolet |
| 220 | Locking differential |
| 286 | High intensity windscreen washer |
| 288 | Headlight washer |
| 437 | Comfort seat left |
| 438 | Comfort seat right |
| 454 | Automatic speed control |
| 494 | 2 speakers on back shelf |
| 513 | Lumbar support – right seat |
| 586 | Lumbar support – left seat |
| 691 | CD-Player “CD-1” with Radio (since replaced) |
| C02 | Equipped with catalytic converter |
DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
I’ve said it before. 911s are made to be driven. Like any 911, this one is loads of fun to drive. Put your foot in it and its seats will hug you. Show it a twisty road and it will dance with you. If you’re feeling a little racy, that’s fine too. Everything on it it silky and tight. The 3.6 liter motor fires up and pulls strong while the 5-speed transmission is crisp and sure with so play and no sync issues. Steering is very responsive and the road feel is excellent through a tight suspension and excellent Bridgestone tires. Braking is firm and solid. This is a car that feels classic but completely fresh and relevant. In other words, it’s a true 911.
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