Find out the extensive lengths to which RSR Project goes in order to capture the essence of the iconic '70s 911 race car
As the name suggests, RSR Project is the culmination of a group of enthusiastic folks who are very fond of the 1973 Porsche 911 Rennsport Rennwagen (RSR) race car, a legend that defined Porsche’s motorsport prowess. Founded in 2017 by Richard Schickman based out of New York, the company’s mission is to work closely with their clients and transform air-cooled 911s into razor-sharp classic sports cars with a modern twist. Their latest creation, a 1986 example bathed in the iconic Gulf Oil livery, is a masterclass in restomod execution. The aesthetic isn’t just for show, it’s a reminder of Porsche’s motorsports dominance.
Significance Of The Porsche 911 RSR
The original Porsche 911 RSR was a dominant race car in the 1970s, known for its lightweight design and performance
First up, a quick history lesson. The 911 Carrera RSR dominated the field in the early 1970s, racking up seven German and three international championships. Victories at legendary circuits like the Nürburgring and Spa solidified its dominance, while a strong showing at Le Mans underlined its versatility. The RSR’s signature ducktail spoiler became a symbol of fear for competitors, as it consistently topped the GT class throughout 1973, including a dominant win at the Targa Florio. The RSR laid the foundation stone and inspired a long line of track-focused 911 RS models for decades to come.
Modern Muscle Meets Classic Soul In This Meticulous Transformation
As for the modern-day iteration, inspired by this legendary race car, each RSR Project carundergoes a total body, mechanical, and interior overhaul with obsessive attention to detail. Starting with a hand-selected rust-free donor car built between 1984 and 1989 (when Porsche’s featured galvanized bodies), RSR Project add steel flares, period-correct bumpers, hood, and deck lid.
The car is further adorned with even more period-correct details like rubber safety catches, Carrera stripes, and gorgeous Fuchs wheels wrapped in vintage-look Michelin 15 TB tires. The interior features exquisite vintage-style seats covered in premium leather and Scottish Tartan, that are complemented by a custom-stitched dashboard and correct-pattern carpet. RS-style door panels and a deep-dish 15-inch RSR steering wheel complete the authentic look.
RSR Project understands that true enthusiasts crave a pure, unfiltered connection to the road, just like the OG ‘70s racer. The 3.2-liter flat-six has been bored out to 3.4 liters, pumping out a healthy 235 horsepower. While that figure might sound modest compared to Porsche’s current naturally-aspirated flagships, remember, this is a car that prioritizes driver engagement over sheer power.
But in a chassis as nimble as this classic 911 at around 2,200 pounds, 235 horses should be adequate to induce grins. To give you some context, that is 1,000 pounds lighter than a standard G-Series 911. The owner of this particular RSR went a step further and left out the air-conditioning. A reprogrammed E.C.U. and aggressive camshafts enhance throttle response and overall engine performance. You can also opt for a 3.5-liter mill for even more punch.
RSR Project hasn’t neglected the chassis. Upgraded Bilstein shocks at all four corners, paired with those 15-inch wheels on grippy Michelin rubber should transform the handling. Four-piston calipers should ensure stopping power matches the newfound grip. It’s more than just a cosmetic makeover. These cars brilliantly capture the spirit of the original RSR.
A Different Kind of Restomod
Their latest creation is a 1986 Porsche 911 transformed into a Gulf Blue RSR replica
Unlike many restomod shops that pile on modern amenities, RSR Project takes a refreshingly driver-focused approach. It resonates with enthusiasts who crave a connection to Porsche’s rich racing heritage, all while enjoying the benefits of modern performance enhancements. Think of it as an old-school ultra-lightweight GT3 RS.
Starting at $375,000, it’s certainly not cheap. But for the Porsche aficionado who wants a truly unique and exhilarating driving experience, this RSR Project creation is a compelling alternative to the stratospheric prices of original RSR cars that fetch seven figures ($2.4-2.8 million) and most likely won’t be driven. RSR project cars meanwhile present an opportunity to relive a piece of Porsche history, reborn to be driven hard on modern roads. And let’s be honest, after a rip behind the wheel, that’s an experience you won’t forget anytime soon.