Gunther Werks Reveals GWR: Modern Porsche Masterpiece

The 400R lived up to that vision, delivering an "immersive, sensation-rich experience that's utterly contemporary in its performance, but retrospective in its engagement," as praised by critics.

Fast forward to today, and Gunther Werks has honed its craft through ventures into turbocharged and Speedster variants, culminating in the introduction of the new GWR a car that takes the naturally aspirated 993 Coupe to unprecedented heights. Drawing on years of experience, the GWR promises to be even more extraordinary than its predecessors.

Unveiled last weekend, the GWR represents the pinnacle of Gunther Werks’ engineering and design prowess. If the original 400R was akin to a GT3, the GWR is the spiritual successor to Porsche's high-performance R or S/T models. The GWR is lighter, faster, and more advanced, featuring innovations that push the boundaries of what a reimagined classic Porsche can be.

At the heart of the GWR’s transformation is a significant weight reduction. The car is equipped with carbon-fiber doors a first for a Gunther Werks vehicle complementing an all-carbon body that has been meticulously redesigned for optimal aerodynamics. The new look includes a double-bubble roof, air curtains for the front wheels, and an aggressive rear diffuser. Despite these enhancements, the GWR maintains a svelte curb weight of just 2,400 pounds (1,088 kg), with torsional rigidity improved by 150% over the original 993, thanks to additional chassis bracing.

Powering the GWR is a refined 4.0-liter flat-six engine that now produces over 500 horsepower. This increase in power is achieved through modifications to the throttle body and intake manifold, alongside the use of titanium components, which reduce internal friction and improve responsiveness. The result is a naturally aspirated engine that delivers raw, exhilarating performance.

The GWR’s chassis has also seen significant upgrades. It now features double wishbone front suspension, reminiscent of the modern 992 GT3 and other high-performance cars. The wheelbase has been extended by 30mm, and the car rides on magnesium wheels that reduce unsprung weight. Drivers can switch between Comfort, Standard, and Track modes, tailoring the driving experience to their preferences, whether cruising or pushing the car to its limits on a track.

In keeping with its tradition of exclusivity, Gunther Werks plans to produce just 40 examples of the GWR. This limited run ensures that the GWR will be a rare and coveted piece of automotive art, even more so than the 75 units of the Project Tornado turbo cars previously announced. Each GWR will be highly customizable, with endless personalization options allowing owners to create a car that reflects their tastes.

Gunther Werks describes the GWR as "as communicative as it is beautiful, delivering all the passion of analog driving, with all the advantages of modern technology." This blend of old-school driving engagement and cutting-edge engineering creates a compelling package one that is sure to tempt those with a passion for Porsche and a budget of around a million pounds.

With the GWR, Gunther Werks has once again set the standard for reimagined classics, proving that there is still uncharted territory to explore in the world of air-cooled 911s. Would this be your ultimate Porsche? It just might be.