Sales debate - is demand for modified Porsche 911s high, or does originality rule?

There are seemingly endless models and factory options to choose from along the timeline of 911 production. Yet that variety only just begins on the dealer spec list. What of cars that have been altered over the years since they left the showroom? From rat rods to restomods, ‘Big Reds’ to RSR wings… you name it, someone will have done it over 50 years of fashions. Is there a market for a modified 911 today, or is originality best?

Paragon sales manager Jamie Tyler says yes and no.

“I personally think that originality is the way ahead,” he prefaces his answer, before going on to say that, “we don’t really get involved with modified cars. There obviously is a market for them and there’s a lot of people out there who modify cars.”

Garage Sportique’s Adam Dawson makes a good point following on from that. “The interchangeable nature of Porsche parts and the gradual evolution of the look gives opportunities to follow your own path,” he points out. “However, what you start with, the quality and cohesiveness of what you add has a strong impact on residual value.”

Modification perhaps needs defining. A J-pipe, a set of aftermarket coilovers, a wood dash, or a 996 to 997 body conversion (it has been done) are all modifications, but the question in a market debate is, would any hold appeal in the car sales marketplace?

Paragon’s Jamie suggests treading carefully. “It certainly narrows down the window of people who would buy a modified car,” he says. “It wouldn’t necessarily be something that would be liked by everyone.” For a car to command a strong price, desirability is always key.

Adam concurs. “Sympathetic aftermarket options such as heated seats, Bluetooth, or retro interiors to ’80s and ’70s G50 cars add value and useability,” he points out, but don’t go totally mad. Mods are best when staying true to the car underneath. “Choose wisely on a cohesive and balanced build, and enjoy what you’ve built,” Adam suggests, adding the crucial point to “ensure it works aesthetically and still drives like a 911 should. Then you can enjoy it and not worry too much about the market.” Beauty, to butcher the saying, is in the eye of the seller – not always the buyer. That said, which Total 911 reader wouldn’t like a reimagined car by Singer in their stable…