Petersfield-based engineering firm Lanzante has announced it will unveil an upgraded version of its Formula 1-engined Porsche 911, called the Tag Championship, at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
Based on the 930-generation 911 Turbo, it swaps the car’s original flat six for the Porsche-developed and Tag-branded powerplant that propelled McLaren’s F1 cars to three consecutive drivers' championship titles between 1984 and 1986.
The 1.5-litre twin-turbo V6 has been upgraded by Cosworth for use on the road, with changes such as revised internals – including new pistons, conrods and valves – improved cooling and lighter titanium turbochargers.
The tweaks mean the engine now puts out 625bhp, up from 503bhp previously, and is capable of revving to 10,250rpm.
It is linked to a reworked version of the six-speed gearbox from the later 993-gen 911, with a bespoke set of gear ratios that are claimed to allow for a top speed of 200mph.
As well as the exotic engine, the Tag Championship 911 receives a chassis overhaul and many of its body panels have been replaced with panels made from “Formula 1-grade” carbonfibre.
Its interior has been stripped of almost all its fripperies, including the electric operation of the mirrors and windows, and a rollcage has been fitted to boost rigidity and crash protection.
Recaro bucket seats replace the leather items originally fitted to the 911 and a Personal steering wheel – similar to that used in McLaren’s MP4/2 F1 car – completes the package.
The result of these changes is a weight saving of more than 400kg, with the Tag car tipping the scales at just 920kg (dry).
The car rides on a set of 18in Dymag alloy wheels, said to mirror the design of those fitted to the MP4/2. They are shod with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 rubber measuring 235mm wide up front and 275mm wide at the rear.
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If I remember correctly, the 1.5l turbo F1 engines, had a very narrow power band, right up at the top end and, all the potency of alcohol-free lager below that. Even if this engine is somewhat better, it could still be a pig on the road. On the other hand, how many of the three buyers will actually drive their car? Most likely all will go straight in to air-conditioned storage, with as little turning of the wheels as possible.
As so often these days, what a waste of all that engineering work...
World wou be a boring place if projects like this didn't exist, even if they do become Museum exhibits,they're, like BMW did back in the 80's I think, have cars that were works of Art.
What a waste.
I have a problem with so many "specials" that will never get used.
I actually skimmed through article knowing that it's another collection editorial. Bar humbug.
Don't care what it costs don't care what others think, if I had the wedge I'd buy one, painted just like this one, even if you didn't drive it it's gorgeous to look at.