This Stunning Porsche Restomod is a Fashion Icon, But You Can't Own It
When we think of iconic automotive brands, Porsche often comes to the forefront. The 993 generation Porsche 911 Turbo, often hailed as one of the most revered models in the history of the 911 lineup, perfectly exemplifies why. Introduced in the early '90s, the 993 Turbo combined thrilling performance with timeless design, making it a favored candidate for enthusiasts and collectors alike. However, Porsche has taken things up a notch by collaborating with the fashionable New York brand Aimé Leon Dore to create a stunning restomod that is making waves in both the automotive and fashion worlds—but unfortunately, you can't buy it.
This special iteration of the 993 Turbo serves as the fourth collaborative model between Teddy Santis, founder of Aimé Leon Dore, and Porsche. While the restomod scene has seen numerous iterations of classic cars, this particular model showcases an aesthetic that merges high fashion with high performance seamlessly. The design pays homage to the original styling cues of the 911 Turbo while integrating elements reminiscent of its Turbo S counterpart, making it a collector's dream, albeit a nearly unattainable one.
Engineering Elegance
While one might assume that the aesthetic modifications would take precedence, the Aimé Leon Dore 993 Turbo is far more than just a pretty face. Equipped with a Turbo S front splitter, rear wing, and a bespoke exhaust system, the car has been engineered for poise as well as aesthetics. Underneath its stunning exterior, you'll find the original 3.6-liter twin-turbo flat-six engine—which still delivers 408 horsepower. The car's performance retains that classic '90s feel, providing a nostalgic driving experience with an upgraded twist.
Its exterior features a show-stopping Mulberry Green paint scheme, a signature color associated with Aimé Leon Dore. The color radiates sophistication, and while metallic greens are often paired with bronze wheels, this restomod opts for black 18-inch Porsche Turbo Twist wheels embellished with gold accents. This attention to detail forges a connection between the exterior design and the luxurious interior, elevating the overall aesthetics of the vehicle.
A Luxurious Inside
One cannot overlook the interiors where the charm of the Aimé Leon Dore 993 Turbo truly shines. Upholstered in sumptuous brown leather, the interior includes a rather unconventional twist: fluffy lambswool accents. While this may strike some as odd for a sports car, it perfectly embodies the luxurious yet laid-back vibe that Aimé Leon Dore encapsulates. Moreover, the grand custom gold shift knob is a nod to New York's iconic World's Fair Unisphere, tying in the designer's local roots.
The interior contains additional extraordinary details, including inscribed door sills that read, "A team from outta Queens with the American dream." This homage places the design firmly within its New York cultural context, making it even more meaningful to fans and admirers alike. The integration of custom Porsche and Aimé Leon Dore logos on the steering wheel and headrests further emphasizes the collaborative essence of this unique vehicle.
The Reveal: A Fashion Statement and a Collector’s Dream
On November 22-23, the Aimé Leon Dore 993 Turbo will be on display at Aimé Leon Dore's London flagship store at 32 Broadwick Street in Manhattan. While details about a potential price are scarce, the unveiling will coincide with a new clothing collection themed around the 993, aptly named “993 Aimé.” This clever marketing strategy alludes to the inseparable connection between automotive elegance and fashion aesthetics—a match made perfectly in automotive heaven.
Previous collaborations between Teddy Santis and Porsche include breathtaking renditions of models like the 964-generation 911 Carrera 4 and a rugged 911 SC designed for safari adventures. Santis’ knack for integrating lifestyle and automobile design showcases his understanding of his audience—those who appreciate the finer things in life yet crave the thrill of driving something distinct and powerful.
Your Choice Among Icons
The Aimé Leon Dore 993 Turbo stands as a testament to the idea that cars can be more than just machines; they can express individuality and fashion, serving as canvases that reflect the culture in which they exist. For those fortunate enough to own any of the previous Santis projects or this latest iteration, they not only possess a piece of automotive art but also a slice of modern luxury living. It raises the question: which previous collaboration did you admire most? The car enthusiast's world is rich with choices, but rest assured, each option tells its own unique story in the automotive narrative.
Ultimately, the Aimé Leon Dore 993 Turbo showcases the enduring charm of classic Porsche vehicles while highlighting the designer's ability to breathe new life into an automotive icon. With its remarkable story, cultural ties, and avant-garde aesthetics, it becomes clear that while you may not be able to own one of these stunning restomods, it is impossible to overlook the automotive artistry that Porsche and Aimé Leon Dore have created together.