The Porsche Carrera Gt, a supercar celebrated for its Formula 1-derived V10 engine producing 612 horsepower, its iconic design, and its unparalleled driving dynamics, remains a significant milestone in automotive history. For one discerning collector in the United States, the desire to rejuvenate their prized Carrera GT led them to commission Porsche Classic for a comprehensive and bespoke restoration.
This project was far from ordinary. The owner envisioned a complete, custom reconstruction, executed to the exacting standards synonymous with Porsche manufacturing. To achieve this level of meticulousness, the Carrera GT was entirely disassembled, component by component. Each part underwent rigorous inspection, with refurbishment or replacement undertaken as needed to meet factory-fresh specifications.
Striking Oak Green Metallic Paintwork
Complementing the meticulously rebuilt engine, transmission, and chassis, the Carrera GT received a full repaint in a distinctive Oak Green Metallic. This classic Porsche hue, originally introduced in the 1970s, had never before been offered on the Carrera GT, making this restoration truly unique.
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The car’s five-spoke magnesium wheels were custom-designed, drawing inspiration from legendary BBS motorsport wheels. The initial concept featured a gold-painted star spoke and a polished rim ring. However, Porsche’s material experts at the Weissach R&D center cautioned against polishing the rim ring, as it could compromise the material’s structural integrity. This necessitated an innovative engineering solution to achieve the desired high-gloss metallic rim effect without compromising safety.
Innovative Silver-Coated Wheel Rims
The solution lay in the application of silver, a precious metal, through a groundbreaking process never before utilized in series vehicle production. A silver layer was applied to the wheel rims to create a visually striking, chrome-like finish.
However, silver’s susceptibility to oxidation, second only to iron, required a protective clear coat. Without protection, silver would tarnish, losing its luster. Therefore, the silver-coated rim ring received a final layer of clear lacquer. The star spoke was then painted gold, creating a rich contrast. Adding a technical touch, the central wheel lock features a blue and silver finish, proudly displaying the Porsche emblem in full color.
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The gold accent color extends beyond the wheels, subtly enhancing other areas of the car. The Porsche lettering on the brake calipers, elements within the engine compartment, the intake housings, and even interior details like a gold stripe on the steering wheel’s center marking, flanked by Oak Green stripes, all incorporate this elegant touch.
Meticulous Carbon Fiber Restoration
The restoration process extended to every detail, including the carbon fiber components. Uwe Makrutzki, Manager of Porsche Classic Factory Restorations in Stuttgart, explained, “Because the coating on older carbon fiber parts tends to yellow and fade, we dedicated 350 hours to meticulously sanding and recoating all carbon fiber components, including the monocoque.” This painstaking work ensured the carbon fiber elements regained their original deep, rich appearance.
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The fully restored Porsche Carrera GT was unveiled at the Porsche Experience Center in Atlanta at the invitation of Porsche Cars North America. A select group of 100 guests, including the owner, witnessed the reveal.
To further elaborate on the project, Porsche Classic hosted a symposium moderated by motor journalist Pete Stout. The panel featured Alexander Fabig, Head of Customer Center, Uwe Makrutzki, Manager of Porsche Classic Workshop Restoration, renowned race driver David Donohue, and Porsche Designer Tony Hatter. These experts offered insights into the restoration and answered audience questions.
About Porsche Classic
Porsche Classic is dedicated to the care of Porsche vehicles whose production ended more than a decade ago. This includes iconic models from the 356 to the 996 generation 911, as well as various four and eight-cylinder models like the 924, 928, 944, 968, and the first-generation Boxster (986). Since 2016, Porsche Classic has also managed the genuine parts supply for the Carrera GT, ensuring owners can maintain these exceptional supercars for generations to come. Further details can be found at www.porsche.de/classic.
