While this may look like a classic Porsche 356 Speedster at first glance, closer inspection reveals this creation out of the US hides a modern secret underneath.
Created by boutique automotive coachbuilder Stärke Motor Company, the Stärke Gen 2 Speedster may heavily draw upon the styling of one of Porsche’s most definitive cars, the modern underpinnings of the current 718, first introduced in 2017.
Created as part of what Stärke describes as the “classic car reimagined” movement, 3D scanning and Computer-Aided Design has been employed create a custom body that fits precisely over the top of that modern chassis.
The aim is to offer enthusiasts the soul of a classic 1950s icon but with the comfort, reliability, performance, and safety of modern 21st century engineering.
Given the 718 underpinnings, with virtually the entire drivetrain, suspension and crash structure carried over directly, all of the donor car’s potential engine options are available.
That includes 2.0-litre (300hp) and 2.5-litre (350hp) turbocharged flat-fours, along with a 4.0-litre naturally aspirated flat-six (394hp). The same six-speed manual or seven-speed PDK gearbox options also carry over.
Each Stärke Gen 2 Speedster is built to order by hand with an extensive array of individual options. During the design process, buyers can choose virtually any exterior paint scheme, a variety of interior colours and materials, wheel designs, powertrains and individual details to ensure their car is truly unique to them.
“The Gen 2 Speedster represents the pinnacle of our design philosophy, delivering a fun classic Speedster experience without any of the classic car downsides,” said Seth Gortenburg, CEO of Stärke Motor Company.
“I always admired the design of classics from the ’50s and ’60s and wanted to create a way to enjoy it with the everyday usability and drivability of a modern car.
“Our Speedster is for the enthusiast who wants something a little bit different from a typical resto-mod.”
Pricing starts at US$135,000 (A$191,080) if a donor car is provided by the customer, while a “hands-free” option where the company sources the car for you starts at US$189,000 (A$267,510). The company quotes a turnaround time of around six months.
