For evidence that creativity is akin to a muscle, consider Porsche’s Sonderwunsch program which returned in 2021 to create unique factory vehicles for exceedingly wealthy individuals. It began modestly with a specially painted Porsche 911 GT3 for the 1985 24 Hours of Le Mans victor Paolo Barilla. It then escalated to more intricate undertakings like the 993 Speedster and the 997 Classic Club Coupe. Now, those enchanted artisans are unveiling their most daring creation yet: the Flachbau RS, a contemporary 911 slantnose based on the foundation of a 2018 911 GT2 RS.
Ordered by an anonymous client in Europe at the expense of several million dollars, the Flachbau RS transcends a mere restomod. It’s hard to pigeonhole it; it’s an eight-year-old vehicle meticulously dismantled, re-engineered, and rebuilt with modern aerodynamics, a minimalist caged interior, and that signature front end reminiscent of the original 911 Flachbau from the 1980s.
Over the past three years, a specialized team of designers, engineers, and other enthusiasts from Porsche, Manthey, and Weissach collaborated to bring the fortunate client’s vision of a street-legal tribute to the 935/78 race car known as Moby Dick to life, which inspired the original Flachbau produced in very limited quantities between 1982 and 1989.
The client insisted that the powertrain remain untouched—a wise choice considering it boasts a 3.8 liter twin-turbo flat-six generating 700 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque—but everything else was open for reinterpretation. Luckily for him, Porsche engaged longtime designer Grant Larson, who had also created the modern 935 concept displayed by the company at Rennsport Reunion in 2018, to finalize the design for the Flachbau RS right before his retirement last year.
Beginning at the front, the inclined, louvered fenders required a redesigned bumper and splitter, new ultra-slim headlights, and even an overhaul of the fuel filler mechanism for compatibility. Manthey also contributed to the front-end aerodynamics with added canards and underbody components.
Inside, the cabin retains some of the original red and black color scheme and carbon fiber accents from the donor car, yet much has been removed. This includes the complete infotainment and audio system—where previously a screen was positioned in the dashboard, a leather-lined storage compartment now exists. Beautiful. Sound insulation and dampening were discarded wherever feasible, showcasing shiny painted metal throughout. Even the wiring harness remains exposed. This reduced the overall weight of the car by 70 pounds compared to a standard GT2 RS, which was already a lightweight contender.
At the rear, the enormous wing with its S-shaped mounts provides three different configurations to increase downforce up to 1,221 pounds over the rear axle when the car reaches its peak speed of 211 mph. It’s patented too, so don’t think about copying it. Since the customer requested a street-legal vehicle and it’s technically a factory product, Porsche had to follow the standard validation and homologation processes as they would for any model, including constructing several test vehicles, virtual crash assessments, wind tunnel experiments, endurance trials, comprehensive vibration testing for the rear wing, and 50 laps on the Nurburgring—where a spy photographer captured one of the test vehicles last August.
And yes, that road-legal requirement is also why Porsche couldn’t fully embrace the 1980s style and include pop-up headlights. Regrettably.
While it’s a pity that those spy images or the earlier Flachbau trademark application filed by Porsche last year didn’t signal the comeback of a production 911 slantnose, it’s still thrilling to witness how the company is pushing the envelope in the Sonderwunsch division. I know they’ll be among my first calls if when I win the Powerball jackpot.
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**Porsche Unveils the Flachbau RS: The Revival of the Legendary 911 Slantnose**
Porsche has formally revealed the Flachbau RS, a contemporary tribute to the iconic 911 Slantnose, also referred to as the Flachbau. This new variant honors the distinctive aesthetics and performance traits that endeared the Slantnose to enthusiasts and collectors alike.
**Historical Background**
The first 911 Slantnose debuted in the 1980s, recognized for its distinctive front design featuring flat headlights and a streamlined silhouette. This aesthetic was not only eye-catching but aimed at improving performance. The Slantnose rapidly became a hallmark of exclusivity, frequently customized through Porsche’s special request program, and continues to be a cherished classic among car enthusiasts.
**Design Characteristics**
The Flachbau RS preserves the recognizable slanted headlights and bold front fascia that characterized its forerunner. The vehicle features a lightweight construction utilizing advanced materials, which enhances handling and performance. The aerodynamic updates include a sculpted front bumper and rear wing, which not only boost visual appeal but also maximize downforce at high velocities.
**Performance Metrics**
Beneath the hood, the Flachbau RS is equipped with a high-performance flat-six engine, delivering thrilling acceleration and an exhilarating driving experience. The engine is coupled with an advanced transmission system, providing smooth shifts and responsive handling. Cutting-edge suspension technology and brake systems further improve the car’s performance capabilities, making it a genuine driver’s vehicle.
**Interior and Technology**
The Flachbau RS’s interior merges luxury with practicality. Premium materials and expert craftsmanship establish an elegant environment, while cutting-edge technology guarantees connectivity and user-friendliness. The infotainment system includes the latest navigation and entertainment features, seamlessly aligning with the driver’s preferences.
**Limited Production and Rarity**
Porsche has disclosed that the Flachbau RS will be produced in limited quantities, enhancing its allure and exclusivity. Each vehicle will be customizable, allowing buyers to choose distinct finishes and features that reflect their individual tastes. This restricted production run is anticipated to attract collectors and enthusiasts keen on acquiring a piece of automotive legacy.
**Final Thoughts**
The launch of the Flachbau RS signifies a pivotal milestone in Porsche’s illustrious history, honoring the legendary Slantnose while incorporating modern engineering and design. With its combination of classic charm and state-of-the-art performance, the Flachbau RS is set to be a highly sought-after addition to the Porsche lineup, appealing to both long-time aficionados and newcomers alike.