Theon Design reveals restomod Porsche 911 Targa 964
The Porsche specialist has debuted its first 911 Targa, which combines a carbon-fibre chassis with a 403bhp 4.0-litre flat six.
The latest bespoke Porsche 911 from Theon Design has been revealed. Based on a 964 Carrera 2 and codenamed GBR003, it was built at the company’s Oxfordshire facility and features an all-carbon body, 4.0-litre naturally aspirated air-cooled engine, and a 993 RS-specification, six-speed manual gearbox. Theon starts by stripping back the donor Targa model to bare metal. While the doors remain steel for side-impact protection purposes, the body is all carbon for added strength and rigidity. The use of carbon extends to an underfloor strengthening system, and carbon bracing is said to transform structural rigidity without adding weight. Using CAD modelling for a perfect fit to the floor of the chassis, two ‘tubs’ are created using a laminate sandwich of toughened epoxy pre-preg carbon fibre and aerospace-grade Nomex honeycomb. As a result, GBR003 weighs just 1,228kg (with fluids).
At the heart of GBR003 comes the flat six engine. It boasts independent throttle bodies and produces 403bhp at 7,100rpm. Peak torque of 434Nm at 5,500rpm ensures effortless performance, while a lightweight, single-mass flywheel gives excellent throttle response. The chassis benefits from a switchable, fivestage TracTive Active Controlled Electronics (ACE) damping system. A full 993 RS brake setup nestles behind 18-inch Fuchs wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot 4S rubber.
GBR003 is finished in a one-off, Paint To Sample Pastel blue. The interior features even more carbon and sumptuous leather. Theon’s ‘touring’ seat option promotes comfort, while the liquorice-coloured, semi-aniline leather is offset by OEM Porsche Agate grey Pepita centres. Sculpted rear buckets draw inspiration from those fitted in the Porsche 928, and there’s also integrated audio for some modern creature comforts.
Finally, Theon has revised the Targa roof, which has been rebuilt to ensure a perfect fit with the strengthened 964 shell. Now finished in a modern mohair material, the Targa top folds and slots into a bespoke bag, which fits in the leather-lined frunk. Theon’s co-founder Adam Hawley said: “With our first Targa commission, the whole Theon team has been determined to set new standards for an aircooled, open-top, Porsche 911 driving experience.
We’ve been totally focused on honouring and distilling the air-cooled recipe, forensically honing every element to create a rewarding, analogue classic 911 that combines the sensory richness of Targa motoring with razor-sharp handling and visceral modern performance.”
Prices for Theon Design commissions start at £390,000 for Coupes and £415,000 for Targas (excluding the donor car). Each 911 is a unique collaboration with the customer, taking 18 months to build. Visit theondesign.com for more details.