Gunther Werks 400R: An Engineering Work of Art
Nicely updated Porsche 933 straddles the lines of engineering & art.
Anyone in the market for a customized Porsche 911 has a lot of choices right now. The Gunther Werks 400R is a fresh hat thrown into that ring, and it’s stunning. The California company is keeping a firm eye on respecting what many call the last real Porsche, while at the same time delivering something truly updated. With their application of modern automotive engineering, materials and components, Gunther have built something exceptional.
Our own Rennlist contributor Manuel Carrillo III was there for the car’s L.A. debut held at Pirelli P Zero World, and he returned with a gallery of one of the photogenic beauty.
“Gunther Werks calls their new 400R ‘an icon remastered,'” says Carrillo, ” and one look at this vehicle in person, and you’ll discover how remastery becomes mastery. This coach-built car evokes emotions I never knew could derive from staring at a 993, and I’m madly in love with the 993.”
Underneath the paint and the bespoke wing, Gunther Werks has pulled out all the stops. To bring the weight down dramatically, they’ve made the body panels from carbon fiber composite. The fenders are extended by 30mm to fit wide, sticky tires and modern suspension. That suspension includes coilovers fitted with a hydraulic lift system and new anti-roll bars.
‘One look at this vehicle and you’ll discover how remastery becomes mastery. This car evokes emotions I never knew could derive from staring at a 993, and I’m madly in love.’
For power, Gunther Werks has gone all out as well. A 400-hp Rothsport Racing 4.0-liter flat-6 sits in the back and will wail all the way up to 7,800 rpm.
In the cockpit, they balance the spartan interior you expect with a dab of luxury. You can also customize the interior with Alcantara, carbon fiber and billet aluminum accents. However, there is little compromise when it comes to shedding weight. The bucket seats and floor panels are all carbon fiber, and there are no rear seats.
Of course, you would have to be one of 25 people buying a 400R. To be one of those 25 people, you will have to part with at least $525,000 and a donor car.
While you wait for your commissioned car, Gunther Werks will look after you. You’ll be staying in private villas with “round-the-clock butler, concierge and housekeeping services.” Then they’ll present you with bespoke keys to the car in a custom box.
Or, for the married folks who have spouses that need persuading, its one hell of a holiday with an incredible air-cooled 911 thrown in at the end.
Photos for Rennlist: Manuel Carrillo III
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