Born with the goal of reimagining the legendary air-cooled Porsche 911, Singer first presented its Classic Study restoration services at Monterey Car Week in 2009. Founded by Rob Dickinson with the philosophy of “a relentless pursuit of excellence” as a driving force behind the brand, the goal was to expand the boundaries of air-cooled restorations. Every restoration proposal started with the same brief: to embark on a collaboration with the respective owner to pursue their vision for the ultimate air-cooled 911.
As demand for each of Singer’s restorations grew, the level of detail and craftsmanship was refined, allowing for items to be specified dependent on the client’s use case. Working hand-in-hand with the client on each request, each “what if” question was taken into consideration. By 2015, Singer was ready to approach a new question on behalf of clients: what might the most advanced, air-cooled Porsche 911 look like?
This question was answered through Singer’s Dynamics & Lightweight Study (DLS) services. These services explored ultra-high performance in relation to the Type 964 generation of 911, leading the California-based brand to the UK – specifically, to an engineering team associated with one of the most successful F1 teams in history: Williams. Working in partnership with Williams Grand Prix Engineering, new restoration services were born in which nothing short of the best was delivered, no matter the cost. Each key performance aspect was optimized; from the suspension, brakes, and wheels through to the aerodynamics of the classic 911. Central to the approach was the naturally aspirated engine – which was optimized to develop 500 hp. This was achieved through a highly optimized 4.0-liter engine, featuring four titanium valves per cylinder, upper and lower fuel injectors, and Banks Ram-Air intakes in the rear side windows.
Weight reduction was sought out at every point possible, including carbon fiber bodywork, magnesium wheels, and lightweight carbon fiber track seats. Other distinguishing features are found in its optimized roof channel, rear window spoiler, which optimizes airflow to its ducktail wing, and a rigid interior cross brace.
Each restoration enabled by the DLS services was undertaken at Singer’s UK facility using state-of-the-art restoration processes. As with all of Singer’s restoration services, the client’s original Type 964 was the starting point. Their car was fully disassembled, with the chassis prepped for the restoration using a highly advanced carbon fiber jig. Clients then had the opportunity to personalize their car in close collaboration with Singer’s specifications team. The extensive specification period allowed each owner to personalize their car’s restoration, down to the bright trim, leather stitchwork, and exposed carbon fiber finishes. Thanks to this extensive process, each completed commission was the reflection of both the client’s design preferences and how they planned to utilize their lightweight, high-performance 911.
This “Thing 1” commission, restored for its current owner, a prominent US-based Porsche collector, is a stellar example of the results of the DLS services. Completed in late 2022, the current owner undertook an intensive specification process in which he would decide on Parallax White for the exterior – a subtle pearlescent tone well suited for the car’s wide stance. The crisp, white paint is contrasted by extensive carbon fiber trim on the lower panels and deck lid, which also continues into the front trunk and engine bay.
Further personalization continues into the cabin, with a black aniline leather lining a majority of the interior. A bespoke leather weave – which mixes the primary leather with a suede – brings an added level of contrasting texture to the already distinct seat design. Similarly to the exterior, a healthy dose of carbon fiber accents the interior – from the upper dash to the lower panels and the cross brace. The showpiece, however, is undoubtedly the carbon shift knob with a unique shift pattern sequence – exclusive to the “Thing 1” commission.
Now showing just 195 miles since completion of the restoration, “Thing 1” shows as if it has just rolled out of Singer’s UK facility. Stored exclusively in a climate-controlled garage, and used only for short, spirited drives, it could not be more well suited for its next caretaker.
Just 75 DLS restorations were completed – with even fewer destined for the US market, making this example a truly special addition to any air-cooled collection.
*Please note that this vehicle will not be sold for use or resale in California or to a non-dealer California resident.
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