Connoisseur Ep 116

Welcome Connoisseur.This year see the 75 anniversary of the Porsche marque and so as a big Porsche fan, I thought we would start with the world surrounding Porsche. Namely, the very passionate people who restore and modify everything Porsche has built from the 356 to the 911 and in between.

You can buy some of these amazing machines or just be content to marvel at the workmanship.

I write Connoisseur on a Sunday usually and post on Monday at 6 am GMT, but I wonder if that is the best reading day, so please drop me your thoughts. If enough people prefer a Sunday evening read I could push forward the publishing.

P.S. Please share this with others, I will make sure that they are entertained.

Ruf

The most famous grandaddy of the restomod scene has to be Ruf one of the unicorns of the Porsche world and one that most people will only ever drive on a playstation.

Founded in 1939 by Alois Ruf Sr., RUF Automobile began as a service garage before transitioning to automobile manufacturing. It rose to fame by modifying Porsche models and was later recognised as a manufacturer by the German government.

RUF's landmark model was the 1987 CTR "Yellowbird," a 911-based creation reaching 211 mph. It outperformed many supercars of the era, solidifying RUF's standing as a premium carmaker. Successive models, such as the CTR2 and CTR3, further demonstrated RUF's commitment to superior performance and craftsmanship.

RUF's latest model, the 2023 RUF SCR, blends classic and contemporary elements. Utilising a naturally aspirated flat-six engine in a carbon fibre monocoque chassis, it produces over 500 horsepower. The SCR is a modern rendition of the classic 911 silhouette, embodying RUF’s innovative spirit.

RUF remains a standout in the automotive industry due to its exceptional engineering, continuous innovation, and rich Porsche-oriented heritage dedication to delivering high-performance and quality vehicles.

The Rabbit Hole

Tedson

The 2023 Tedson Motors' Daydream is a groundbreaking restomod of the Porsche 911, transformed into a hybrid by Goran Turkic, who leverages his physics background and car enthusiasm. The Daydream is an innovation of the 964 model, maintaining respect for the original Porsche 911 philosophy while adding a personal touch.

Powered by a 4.0-litre, air-cooled engine with a hybrid electric flywheel, the Daydream produces 540bhp and 630Nm, essentially an air-cooled engine on steroids. Designed with wealthy, eco-conscious individuals in mind, it offers various engine sizes and customizations.

The Daydream represents a labor of love and passion for Turkic, who anticipates future projects to elevate other classic brands with his unique restomod approach.

The Rabbit Hole

Gunther Werks

Gunther Werks, based in California, USA, is a bespoke automobile manufacturer specialising in reimagining Porsche 993 models, the last air-cooled 911s. Founded by entrepreneur Peter Nam, the firm is committed to combining modern performance and luxury with classic aesthetics.

The 400R, the company's flagship model, has been widely praised for its transformative approach to the 993 platform. Featuring a 4.0L, naturally-aspirated flat-six engine producing over 400 horsepower, and a completely redesigned carbon fibre body that broadens the car's stance yet reduces weight, it offers an exceptional driving experience.

One of the striking aspects of Gunther Werks' approach is its meticulous attention to detail. Each 400R takes about 4,000 man-hours to complete, and the customisation options ensure that each car is a unique piece.

Building on the success of the 400R, Gunther Werks revealed the 993 Speedster Remastered in 2021, a roofless version of the 400R. This model features a raked windscreen and a humped rear deck cover, invoking the timeless style of classic Porsche speedsters.

Gunther Werks' latest creation, the 993 Sport Touring model, was announced in 2023. Retaining the enhanced performance features of the 400R, this model focuses on a more comfortable ride and luxurious interior while maintaining the company's signature design aesthetics.

Gunther Werks has built a name for itself by tastefully merging old-world charm with new-world performance and refinement. Each car is not just a restoration, but a masterful reinterpretation of a Porsche classic.

The Rabbit Hole

Singer

Founded in 2009 by ex-rock musician Rob Dickinson, California-based Singer Vehicle Design has carved a unique niche, specialising in reimagining Porsche's 911 964 model (1989-1994). Singer's work diverges from traditional restoration, instead modernising performance, safety, and aesthetics while preserving the car's original charm.

The company's approach includes extensive enhancements that surpass the original specifications. Key modifications involve widening bodies, carbon fibre panels, and an upgraded 4.0-litre flat-six engine with around 390-500 horsepower.

Lesser-known about Singer is its substantial collaborative network. The "Dynamics and Lightweighting Study" (DLS), a joint venture with Williams Advanced Engineering, pushed the boundaries of the classic Porsche 911 with a bespoke 500 horsepower engine and lightweight materials.

Singer's commitment to craftsmanship and personalised service, coupled with performance advancements, have earned it a distinguished reputation. Even with premium prices, Singer's reimagined 911s remain highly sought after, demonstrating the company's unique market value.

The company was named both in honour of renowned Porsche engineer, Norbert Singer, and Dickinson's other career as a vocalist!

The Rabbit Hole

Monaco

The allure of this opulent city-state nestled on the French Riviera, known for its azure waters and sun-drenched streets, there is something about Monaco that says luxury. From the adrenaline-fuelled Monaco Grand Prix to the glamour of its luxury-filled streets, it's where opulence meets thrill. Each year, world-class drivers race through the city in a prestigious Formula 1 spectacle, against a backdrop of dazzling yachts moored in Port Hercules.

Venturing down to the harbour reveals luxury superyachts and fast-boats. Monaco's allure is due to its tax-friendly policies, it's become a magnet for the world's wealthiest, seeking to protect their wealth while enjoying an unparalleled lifestyle. Monaco truly embodies the intersection of high life and high speed.

The Rabbit Hole

Formula One

Imola Cancelled.

The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, originally scheduled at Imola this weekend, was cancelled by F1 governing body FIA.

Record-breaking rainfall in the recent week resulted in severe flooding in the surrounding area, making the track largely unreachable in the lead up to the race. Even sections of the paddock were submerged underwater.

On Wednesday, 16th May, the decision was finalised to call off the race, enabling local officials to focus entirely on disaster relief efforts. Tragically, the flooding has already resulted in 14 fatalities.

Monaco in-coming

The Monaco Grand Prix, known in French as the Grand Prix de Monaco, is a celebrated event in the Formula One racing calendar. Taking place yearly on the Circuit de Monaco, it has been a major highlight of the motorsport calendar since 1929. This esteemed race is globally recognised as one of the most significant and prestigious in the world.

That is, if all the teams can make it there after the flooding at Imola. Mercedes had hoped that Imola would be the first outing for their new upgrade package, but with it being Monaco, it may well be a tricky, low-downforce track for the team to see any real improvements.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc is on home soil, and this may prove to be an exciting opportunity for him. The Red Bull of Verstappen will not have quite the same pace advantage due to their super slick aero package, which means Ferrari, if it can hold it together, might have its best chance of the year of standing on the top step.

The tight corners and rapid changes in elevation characteristic of this circuit, along with sparse overtaking opportunities, make Monaco one of the most technically demanding tracks in Formula One. The nature of this circuit also makes it a low-downforce track.

If there is one race to see for the F1 spectacle, it's the Monaco Grand Prix.

Next Race - Monaco - 26th May - 28th May

26th May - Practice 1 - 12:30 BST

26th May - Practice 2 - 16:00 BST

27th May - Practice 3 - 11:30 BST

27th May - Qualifying - 15:00 BST

28th May - Grand Prix - 14:00 BST

Other News, Links and Stuff

Whats-The-Fuss

Other dates for your diary:

Gumball3000 - 10 – 17 June

Atlantic Road Trip - 30 June– 09 July

Silverstone Grand Prix - 7– 9 July 

Goodwood Festival of Speed - 13 – 16 July

Goodwood Revival - 8 –10 Sept

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