Experience the Thrill of Driving a 1980s F1-Engine-Powered Porsche 911

Limited-run Lanzante car melds 930 style with authentic McLaren F1 engines.

In the automotive realm, there is a common saying that describes extremely intense track-oriented vehicles as “race cars for the road.” While this statement is often used, it is not always accurate. However, the vintage Porsche 911s produced by British company Lanzante come closer to fitting this description than most, thanks to their use of McLaren TAG turbo V6 engines that were previously utilized in Formula One racing.

For several years, Lanzante has been gradually creating these 911s with F1 engines. However, the specific one featured in this video stands out as exceptionally impressive. O’Gara Coach, located in Beverly Hills, California, was behind its creation, with the assistance of former F1 driver Stefan Johansson, who gave the car a personalized paint design. The engine used in the car is from Johansson’s McLaren during the 1987 Austrian Grand Prix, where he finished in seventh place. This partnership is fitting, as Johansson has transformed into an artist with a studio in Santa Monica after his retirement from racing.

According to reports, Lanzante demands a hefty sum of $1.45 million for each of these custom builds. The engines used are directly procured from McLaren and feature the branding of Techniques d’Avant Garde (TAG), renowned for their TAG-Heuer watch brand. However, it is important to note that it was Porsche who originally developed the powerplants.

Aided by Cosworth, the Formula 1 engine was reworked for use in a production car. Modifications were implemented, such as reduced turbo size, lower boost levels, and an altered fuel-to-air ratio. The outcome was an engine with an estimated output of 503 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. In race configuration, this powerhouse would have performed at a staggering 900 hp and approximately 1,200 hp during qualifying rounds.

Johansson zoomed across the track donning a helmet adorned with three emerald leaves in varying tones. He incorporated these shades onto his art car, alongside splashes of blue, yellow, and red. Beyond its visually appealing design, driving Lanzante’s 911 is an exhilarating experience. The modified engine can reach an impressive 9,000 rotations per minute and produces a remarkable sound. Furthermore, flames burst out from the exhaust, adding to the adrenaline rush. While revamped Porsches are not uncommon, this one stands out for its usage of a F1 racing engine. It truly is a unique and exceptional vehicle.

MCLAREN F1 TURBO ENGINE IN A PORSCHE 930 ART CAR

Source: Magnus Walker via YouTube