California’s Singer Vehicle Design, together with
Williams Advanced Engineering (part of the Williams Grand Prix Engineering
Group), have built what could be described as the most advanced air-cooled
Porsche 911 in the world. The Dynamics and Lightweight Study (DLSA) 911 was first unveiled at
last August at Pebble Beach, and will make its European debut at this year’s
Geneva Motor Show on March 5-17.
Visitors will find it at Michelin’s stand, as the
latest and greatest Singer-developed 911 is equipped with Pilot Sport Cup 2
Connect tires wrapped around 18-inch lightweight forged magnesium monoblock
wheels from BBS.
Williams Advanced Engineering developed the
4.0-liter normally aspirated, air-cooled flat-six, with technical advice and
consultancy from Porsche’s legendary engineer Hans Mezger. The engine features
titanium valves, dual overhead cams, a lightweight construction, F1-inspired
upper and lower injectors and a unique oiling system that improves lubrication
and cooling. It also has four valves per cylinder and four camshafts, and puts
out 500 HP at a stratospheric 9,000 rpm.
Williams also worked on aerodynamics, optimizing the
design of the ducktail spoiler at the rear, increasing downforce and improving
engine intake and cooling performance through the side window ram-air intakes
and rear decklid vents. The F1 outfit also handled torsional stiffness, mass
efficiency, the full carbon body and the suspension.
Meanwhile, Bosch provided the advanced control
systems (ABS, ESC, switchable driving modes), Hewland developed the custom
6-speed manual gearbox, Brembo added the carbon ceramic brakes, Recaro the
lightweight carbon fiber sports seats, and Momo the steering wheel, which also
has a carbon fiber construction.
Other interior features include a raised, manual
gear shifter with exposed titanium and magnesium linkage, shift lights in the
tachometer, drilled carbon and titanium pedals, lightweight air-conditioning
and heating system, and custom instrument gauges.
It’s worth visiting Michelin’s stand and viewing the
ultimate air-cooled 911 for yourselves. And if you happen to have a spare US$ 1.8
million or so, you can become the proud owner of the 75 examples that will be
manufactured, and of course tailor it to your own specs. Are there faster cars
out there costing a fraction of the Singer’s price? Sure. But this isn’t just
any 911; better consider it a personal statement of exquisite taste and
appreciation for one of the finest cars available at any price.
