Williams-Optimized Singer Set to Debut at Geneva

One of the most legendary names in Formula 1, Williams, partnered with Singer to build what may be their most impressive creation yet.

Singer Vehicle Design has influenced an entire generation of air-cooled Porsche enthusiasts with their 911R-inspired re-imagining of the excellent 964 chassis. Each car they build is a unique work of art, personalized for their well-heeled, discerning owners, but enjoyed by all.

Their newest creation may be their most radical yet. Debuting at the Geneva Motor Show, March 7 to 17. This newest car, built for Porsche enthusiast Scott Blattner, is a partnership between Singer, Michelin, and Williams – yes, that Williams.

The car was built with the intent of optimizing both the 964 chassis and the legendary Hans Mezger-designed air-cooled flat six engine. With help from Mezger himself, Williams re-engineered the engine, increasing displacement to 4.0 liters with dual overhead camshafts while making extensive use of lightweight materials and construction techniques.  Williams also designed Formula 1-inspired injectors and a unique oiling system. The result is an incredible 500 horsepower at 9,000 RPM.

Of course, Williams was turned loose on the body as well to show off their Formula 1 know-how. Through the process of computational fluid dynamics (CFD), ever surface of the classic 911 shape was carefully assessed and optimized. Thanks to a redesigned front spoiler and a careful re-routing of the oil cooler intake and vent, the 911’s notorious front axle lift was eliminated. Out back, the iconic ducktail spoiler, first seen on the Carrera RS, was subtly modified, bringing its shape and functionality into the 21st century.

Williams also worked to both increase the body’s rigidity and reduce its weight. The suspension received a similar treatment from Williams. The cherry on top of this Singer sundae, though, are the tires. Michelin’s excellent Pilot Sport Cup 2 Connect tires sit at all four corners of this very special Singer, ready to tackle the track.

Cameron Vanderhorst

Cam VanDerHorst has been a contributor to Internet Brands' Auto Group sites for over three years, with his byline appearing on Ford Truck Enthusiasts, Corvette Forum, JK Forum, and Harley-Davidson Forums, among others. In that time, he's also contributed to Autoweek, The Drive, and Scale Auto Magazine.

He bought his first car at age 14 -- a 1978 Ford Mustang II -- and since then he’s amassed an impressive and diverse collection of cars, trucks, and motorcycles, including a 1996 Ford Mustang SVT Mystic Cobra (#683) and a classic air-cooled Porsche 911.

In addition to writing about cars and wrenching on them in his spare time, he enjoys playing music (drums and ukulele), building model cars, and tending to his chickens.

You can follow Cam, his cars, his bikes, and his chickens at @camvanderhorst on Instagram.

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