At the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Singer Vehicle Design proudly unveiled its latest masterful reinvention of the Porsche 911, an event coinciding with a decade of their participation at this prestigious automotive celebration. The company also marked a significant milestone, having completed and delivered 500 bespoke vehicles since its inception. This new iteration of the 911 Carrera Coupe, with only 100 units slated for production, exemplifies Singer's dedication to blending iconic design with cutting-edge performance and unparalleled artistry, offering enthusiasts a glimpse into the future of automotive restoration.
Singer's journey began in 2009, and their remarkable trajectory has seen them consistently push the boundaries of what's possible in automotive reimagination. This year's Goodwood showcase featured two of these meticulously crafted 911 Carrera Coupes. One of these exquisite machines was slated to conquer the renowned Goodwood Hillclimb, allowing spectators to witness its dynamic capabilities firsthand. The other was placed on static display within the Stable Yard, providing an intimate opportunity for attendees to admire the intricate details and experience the captivating auditory signature of the vehicle, a testament to Singer's unwavering commitment to perfection.
The foundation of this latest Singer masterpiece is the venerable 964-generation Porsche 911. Each donor vehicle undergoes a rigorous and comprehensive process: a complete disassembly down to the bare steel chassis. This bare chassis then receives a meticulous inspection, thorough cleaning, and specialized preparation, followed by a strengthening procedure developed in collaboration with Red Bull Advanced Technologies. This reinforcement significantly enhances the chassis's rigidity, enabling it to fully exploit the capabilities of its newly installed, advanced engine. The bodywork is then artfully widened, echoing the powerful and distinctive silhouette of the original 930 Porsche 911 Turbo, seamlessly blending heritage aesthetics with contemporary execution.
A major highlight of this reimagined 911 lies beneath its stunning exterior, specifically in its powertrain. In an exciting collaboration with Cosworth, the flat-six engine has undergone substantial upgrades, setting a new benchmark even for Singer's already impressive creations. For the first time in a Singer vehicle, this engine incorporates variable valve timing and features water-cooled cylinder heads alongside air-cooled cylinders. An electric fan, partially inspired by the DLS Turbo Study, is integrated to manage the thermal demands of the potent 4.0-liter engine, which generates a formidable 420 horsepower and can rev beyond 8,000 rpm. The exhilarating engine note is channeled through a new titanium exhaust system, promising an auditory experience as captivating as the visual one. Power is delivered through a precise six-speed manual gearbox, and for those who appreciate the mechanical artistry, Singer offers an exposed shift mechanism, transforming a functional component into a visual centerpiece of the vehicle's interior.
Beyond the mechanical brilliance, Singer has also elevated the interior craftsmanship to unprecedented levels. The showcased vehicles featured extraordinary leatherwork, distinguished by intricately stitched and burnished seams. This painstaking process involves hand-painting after edge sanding, requiring an astounding 400 hours of dedicated labor per vehicle. One of the featured cars, presented in a striking Celeste Passalacqua finish, incorporated vibrant Mars Pink velvet corduroy accents, adding a playful yet luxurious touch. The other example, in Giallo Segnale, was adorned with a unique Interferenza cloth in black, showcasing the depth of customization available. Further enhancing the blend of performance and luxury, these new Singer builds boast 18-inch centerlock wheels, air conditioning for comfort, carbon-ceramic brakes for superior stopping power, and a choice between sports or lightweight track seats. These thoughtful details underscore the duality of the new Singer models, designed to deliver exhilarating performance on the track while exuding an air of exquisite craftsmanship and luxury when at a standstill.
Singer Vehicle Design continues to set the benchmark in the realm of automotive restoration and modification. Their latest Porsche 911 reimagination, showcased at Goodwood, perfectly encapsulates their philosophy of combining classic aesthetics with modern performance and unparalleled artisanal detail. This achievement, particularly for a company founded relatively recently, demonstrates a remarkable ability to maintain balance and precision in their highly specialized craft. The anticipation for what Singer will unveil in the coming years at Goodwood and beyond remains incredibly high.