Gunther Werks GWX 'Bubblegum' (1995)

Gunther Werks takes a slightly different approach to reinterpreting the classic 911. With a single-minded focus on delivering the ultimate analogue driver experience based on the traditional air-cooled 911 configuration.

Each of the 25 Gunther Werks 400Rs are based on Porsche’s 993 platform; the final air-cooled iteration of the 911 and platform that brought with it the most advanced suspension set up of any 911 to date. The premise behind Gunther Werks efforts is the ‘GT3’ that was never built; if Porsche had continued the air-cooled lineage beyond the 993 and what the ultimate iteration would look like.

Much has been learned from a technical stand point since the end of 993 production in 1998. All of the panels bar the doors are now made from carbon fibre, a weight saving endeavour that continues through the cabin with the rear-seat delete, bespoke carbon fibre seats and aerospace-grade lightweight fabrics and results in a dry weight of just 1,200 kg.

The bespoke bodywork, evoking the spirit of Porsche’s period Le Mans efforts, offers a square track with sizeable 245 front tyres and 315 wide rears. Uprated brakes sit behind with a fully adjustable KW Clubsport coilover setup engineering around bespoke tie-rods and arms. A front-axle lift kit ensures the 400 R is practical when needed, and further upgrades have been carried out across the driveline ensuring the driver is very much the focus.

The 400R is powered by a modern take on the classic air-cooled recipe. Handbuilt by Rothsport Racing, the engine retains its original crankcase but nothing else. Custom forged Carillio conrods, bespoke Mahle pistons, a 4.0 GT3 crankshaft, oil pump, individual throttle bodies with high-flow injectors and twin-plug ignition. The result is a powerplant that offers 438hp at 7,800 rpm and 315lb ft at 6,500 rpm.