Winners of the 2023 Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge
Expanding Categories
During Rennsport Reunion 7 at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, the third annual 2023 Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge revealed its winners. In response to the growing enthusiasm for the event, organizers decided to broaden the competition into three distinct categories: Preservation, Restoration, and Individualization.
Individualization Excellence
In the Individualization category, Beverly Hills Porsche claimed victory with their meticulously customized 1991 911 Carrera 4 Coupe (964). Inspired by the Porsche Sonderwunsch program, the vehicle underwent a comprehensive transformation. Starting with the engine, it was disassembled and refurbished to pristine condition. The 3.6-liter engine was enlarged to 3.8 liters, featuring new pistons and cylinder barrels. Racing springs with upgraded valves were integrated, alongside a single mass flywheel and a modified crankcase to accommodate a GT3 high-performance oil pump. To enhance rust protection, the entire vehicle was coated in cadmium, while the fan was painted Speed Yellow to match the interior and yellow calipers. The interior received a lavish upgrade, featuring a new leather interior with Speed Yellow French stitching, an Alcantara headliner, and a Speed Yellow Tachometer adorned with the Porsche 75th logo.
Restoring the Classic
In the Restoration category, Napleton Westmont Porsche triumphed with their painstakingly restored 1994 911 Turbo 3.6 (964). While the donor vehicle initially appeared solid, a closer examination revealed imperfections beneath the surface. The car was stripped down to bare metal and dry ice blasted to rectify these issues. Following meticulous bodywork, it received three coats of Porsche black paint and three clear coats, resulting in a dazzling finish. All lights, markers, bumpers, and components were reinstalled to perfection. The interior underwent a complete reupholstering and refinishing, ensuring it surpassed its original factory condition.
Preservation and People’s Choice
Gaudin Porsche of Las Vegas achieved a remarkable double victory in both the Preservation and People’s Choice categories with their 1996 911 Turbo (993). Despite sitting idle for eight years, the vehicle was meticulously revived. The engine underwent comprehensive restoration, including resealing the top end, replacing piston rings, and rebuilding cylinder heads with new valves and guides. The focus was on preserving the vehicle’s originality, leading to the removal of previous owner’s modifications such as brake calipers and intercooler. Calipers were rebuilt and refinished in Brembo red, while the intercooler received a satin black finish with correct decals. The shocks were upgraded to a Bilstein M030 setup. The interior was restored to its factory glory, including the reinstatement of the original stereo and the refurbishment of various components. Extensive wet sanding and polishing rejuvenated the Speed Yellow paint, leaving it looking as good as new.
These three remarkable vehicles, celebrated at the event, now hold the coveted titles and bragging rights for a full year. The event not only showcases the immense passion for Porsche in North America but also serves to promote interest in Porsche’s offerings and raise awareness about the Porsche Classic Restoration program and its extensive catalog of classic parts.
