10,000-RPM Porsche Restomod Costs 3 Times As Much As A GT3 RS

Porsche restomods are becoming increasingly common. Plenty of 911s are sitting around, ripe for picking, with specialist companies just waiting to add their special touch to these German classics. UK-based Thornley Kelham is the latest company to reveal its 911-based creation. It’s called the European RS, and it’s the second of four vehicles from the firm’s European series.

$750

Whereas most 911 restomods are based on the 964 generation, Thornley Kelham has opted for the 911 ‘classic’ which was produced up until 1989. The firm says it did this to keep weight as low as possible. It tips the scales at a featherweight 2,359 lbs (with a full tank of gas) in certain configurations, with a mixture of lightweight carbon fiber and alloy body panels.

Three Engines To Choose From, Including One That Sings Up To 10,000 RPM

Customers can select from three engine options. The standard option, an uprated and enlarged 993 motor, produces 385 horsepower and revs up to 8,000 rpm. If you want something more dramatic, there’s a slightly less powerful 3.8-liter (380 hp) that screams up to 10,000 rpm. Those seeking more muscle will have to opt for the 394-hp 4.0-liter engine with four valves per cylinder. It doesn’t rev quite as high as the other options, but with the optional titanium exhaust, we anticipate a glorious soundtrack. A six-speed manual transmission heightens driver engagement and sends power to the rear wheels, regardless of the engine choice.

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To make the European RS a pleasure in the bends, the suspension receives custom wishbones based on the system you’d find in a modern GT3. The standard setup receives Eibach coilovers and JRZ Motorsport coilovers. However, customers can specify adaptive dampers at extra cost. There are six- and four-piston brakes at the front and rear, but those seeking stronger stopping power can go for carbon ceramic brakes. Lastly, there’s a limited-slip diff from Wavetrac. Power steering can also be added if customers don’t feel like struggling to parallel park.

A Wheeled Work Of Art

In terms of design, the European RS looks magnificent, with a low-slung, menacing, and wide stance. The ducktail spoiler takes inspiration from the ’70s RSR models but, overall, the newcomer channels the iconic Carrera 2.7 RS design. And it’s not just the styling that has been influenced by the 2.7 RS. Company co-founder Simon Thornley describes the European RS as “a truly unique car imbued with the nuanced dynamics and feedback of the legendary 2.7 RS, the thrill of the 2.8RSR, and performance, precision, and progressive handling of the legendary 997 GT3 RS 4.0.”

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Step inside, and you’ll find a functional yet well-trimmed interior. Lightweight carbon fiber seats, trimmed in Alcantara and Connolly leather, dominate the cabin and look good alongside the classy CNC-machined controls, and Momo Prototipo steering wheel. If you’re interested in purchasing one, you’d best have deep pockets, as the European RS has a starting price of £580,000 ($747,000). Even if you have the wherewithal, you’ll need to act fast, as Thornley Kelham says just 25 units will be produced.