When it comes to merging vintage charisma and high-octane performance, Lanzante's latest creation is a symphony of engineering prowess and nostalgia. Set to take center stage at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Lanzante's remastered Porsche 911 TAG Championship is a tribute to the glory days of Formula 1, where every rev and roar defines the spirit of racing excellence. This masterpiece isn't just a showpiece; it's a performance titan dressed in the legendary cloak of racing history.
The Masterpiece Unveiled
Lanzante has taken the already stellar TAG Turbo and elevated it into a stratosphere of its own. The revamped version cranks out a jaw-dropping 617 horsepower, a significant leap from its initial 503 hp. Even more impressive, the engine's rev limit has been elevated to an ear-splitting 10,250 rpm, ensuring that driving this beast won't just be fast—it'll be an auditory sensation. This mechanical marvel is one of three exclusive models set to be unveiled, each commemorating McLaren’s triumphant F1 Championship wins in the 1980s.
Evolution of Power and Glory
Under the rear axle of each of these rare machines lies a Porsche-developed V6 engine, a relic from the golden era of Formula 1. The '85 Championship model, a standout with its painted tribute to Alain Prost's 1985 helmet, contains an engine that conquered tracks in the ‘84, ‘85, and ‘86 seasons, claiming podium finishes and etching its name into racing lore. Cosworth has masterfully infused some F1 magic back into these engines, boosting their output and rev capabilities far beyond what most modern sports cars can dream of.
Raw Performance
The heart of this creation isn’t just in its engine. Each model channels power to the rear wheels through a finely-tuned six-speed manual transmission, originally plucked from the 993-generation 911. Adjusted gear ratios ensure that this beast can roar up to a genuine 200 mph (322 km/h), making it a potent blend of vintage engineering and cutting-edge performance. This isn't just a car; it's a time machine that respects its roots while embracing the future of speed.
A Featherweight With Muscle
Lanzante hasn’t stopped at performance alone; weight reduction has played a crucial role in the transformation. The stock components have been swapped out for F1-grade carbon fiber alternatives, bringing the overall weight to an unbelievable 2,030 lbs (920 kg)—lighter than a Mazda MX-5 and almost half the weight of a modern Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet. A roll cage, carbon braking system, and lightweight air conditioning ensure that no compromise has been made on safety or comfort. The result is a car that feels as agile as it is powerful, an automotive athlete honed to perfection.
The Price of Excellence
Exclusivity doesn’t come cheap. Although Lanzante hasn’t disclosed the official price tag, considering that the initial run of TAG Turbos cost a staggering $1.5 million, the TAG Championship will likely command a premium that will make a modern Turbo S seem like a bargain. For those who can afford it, ownership isn't merely about having a car; it's about possessing a fragment of racing history, a conversation piece that speaks volumes about engineering excellence and automotive artistry.
A Racing Legend Reborn
As the Goodwood Festival of Speed draws closer, anticipation surges among car enthusiasts and collectors alike. Lanzante's reimagined Porsche 911 TAG Championship is more than just a car; it's a tribute, a performer, and a relic all wrapped in carbon fiber and racing pedigree. For the few fortunate enough to own one, it promises to be an exhilarating blend of power, prestige, and pure automotive magic.