Discover the Hidden Features of the 550-HP Porsche 911 That Every Car Enthusiast Should Know
As automotive enthusiasts gather for the annual Monterey Car Week, all eyes are poised on the exhilarating announcements and reveals from various prestigious manufacturers. One standout revelation comes from the renowned Galpin Motors, which is resurrecting the iconic Porsche bb-Auto 'Rainbow' Turbo Targa with a modern twist. Beyond its nostalgic charm and vibrant paint job lies a high-performance hybrid powertrain, boasting an astonishing 550 horsepower that elevates this classic car to extraordinary new heights.
Return of a Legend
The 1986 Porsche bb-Auto Targa Hybrid is a delightful ode to the original Rainbow Turbo Targa that first appeared at the 1976 Photokina photography show in collaboration with Polaroid. Just as the original became a cultural symbol of creativity and innovation, this modern iteration invites enthusiasts to see it not just as a restomod, but as a bridge between past and future.
The Targa has been meticulously brought back to life by the talented teams at Porsche Santa Clarita and Galpin Auto Sports, showcasing both a commitment to preserving automotive history and a passion for performance. As it enters the competition for the Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge at the Werks Reunion Monterey, its refreshed aesthetic and unprecedented performance metrics demand attention.
The Power Within
While the exterior remains true to the classic G-body styling that Porsche fans adore, the engineering beneath the surface is a marvel of modern technology. The traditional 3.2-liter flat-six engine has been swapped for a robust 4.0-liter flat-six, skillfully designed by the experts at Ed Pink Racing. This powerhouse not only generates 550 horsepower but is also complemented by an innovative hybrid system provided by Vonnen.
Unlike conventional hybrid setups, Vonnen's system integrates seamlessly between the engine and transmission, using a lightweight motor generator capable of delivering a remarkable 150 horsepower. This elegance in engineering not only preserves the driving experience but enhances it, promoting an exhilarating and balanced drive that truly reflects Porsche’s performance ethos.
Modern Performance Meets Classic Aesthetics
But the Targa’s upgrades don’t stop with the engine. To handle the monumental increase in power, it features serious chassis enhancements. Behind the custom 18-inch wheels fitted with high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires rests a set of six-piston Brembo brakes, ensuring this classic beauty can come to a halt as powerfully as it accelerates.
In tandem with the upgraded brakes, a custom 993-style suspension system with active management provides enhanced handling that meets the demands of spirited driving. The car’s exterior has been lovingly adorned in a sleek black finish, which brilliantly accentuates the vibrant rainbow motif, ensuring it remains a head-turner wherever it roams.
A Feast for the Senses Inside
Open the door, and you are greeted by an interior that enhances the driving experience through modern comfort and style. The standout feature here involves bespoke Recaro LX seats, intricately upholstered in a striking blue velour that resonates with the car’s exterior design. The interior maintains a race essence while incorporating a more contemporary feel with the inclusion of a Porsche Communication Management System that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Every detail, from the wooden gear knob to the luxurious 900-watt Focal sound system, has been carefully curated to offer not just a ride, but an adventure teeming with excitement. This careful balance of classic aesthetics and modern luxury enhances the car's charm and makes it a fitting tribute to the storied legacy of Porsche.
A Star Among Classics at Monterey
As the bb-Auto Porsche prepares to grace the stage at the Werks Reunion, it won't be alone in celebrating automotive art. It is set to shine alongside other extraordinary Porsches, including a 1984 bb-Auto 911 Slantnose and a 1981 bb-Auto 928 Targa. As the anticipation builds toward the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, enthusiasts are excited to see how the blend of historical reverence and modern performance continues to unfold.
In captivatingly capturing the spirit of classic Porsche, this modern-day rendition of the Targa doesn't just keep the name alive; it revives the legend in a thrilling new era of hybrid performance. The 1986 Porsche bb-Auto Targa Hybrid is more than just a car—it's a testament to what happens when tradition meets innovation.