COTW this week goes to the 2010 Singer Design Porsche 911 for proving that a retro classic isn’t always bad news. The last few years have seen a wave of new Minis, Camaros, Challengers and Mustangs pumped out by manufacturers who seem to think that producing something that looks vaguely like the original is enough to recapture its spirit. Singer has really gone against that trend by creating a retro classic the way it should be done: an original body subtly packed with modern technology.

The Singer 911 is essentially a modern day improvement on the classic Porsche 911. They take a long wheelbase 911 (any model from 1969 up to 1989), strip it to a bare shell and start making everything better. First, the chassis is strengthened and all the steel panels (except for the doors) are replaced with carbon fibre items. Then comes the adjustable suspension system and Brembo brakes, neither of which would be out of place on a racing car. The engine is an interesting mix of old Porsche, new Porsche and custom made items, designed in the UK and built in the USA. The result is 3.8l of air/oil cooled flat six that can spin to 8000rpm, producing 316kW (425bhp) and 460Nm (340lb-ft) along the way. With a kerb weight of 1088kg (2400lb), 0 - 100km/h is dealt with in 3.9 seconds and top speed is just over 270km/h.

Singer retains the style of the original 911 interior but applies subtle enhancements. The original dash cluster is fitted with new gauges, the Momo steering wheel is a new reproduction of the classic Monza design and the Vintage Recaro leather seats have been retrofitted with a carbon fibre frame and full electric adjustment. Outside the car, modern xenon headlights and an engine cover that automatically pops up to become a rear spoiler at speed complete the blend of old technology with new.

Even though the first car wasn’t delivered until September 2010, a new improved model is already on its way for 2011.

Tags: 911 | Fuchs | Porsche | Retro | Singer 911 | Singer Design