This German 911 Appears to Be Straight Out of 1973, But It Conceals a Major Secret | Carscoops

This German 911 Appears to Be Straight Out of 1973, But It Conceals a Major Secret | Carscoops

      Instead of utilizing a G-series, 964, or 993 donor vehicle, Ruehle constructs its RSR replica using a contemporary 997.

      Ruehle’s F97 introduces a modern 997 perspective on the classic backdated 911 concept.

      Built on a 2005 platform, the F97 resembles a '73 RSR but is powered by a water-cooled engine.

      All-steel, US-legal models start at $400K, which is lower than Singer's prices.

      It may seem like there are only a few original G-series 911 and 964 restomods left in existence, making the backdated 911 you see here particularly eye-catching.

      This model isn’t derived from a Porsche from the 1980s or ’90s; instead, it originates from a more recent model that has quietly faded from popularity, despite being one of the most balanced 911s ever produced.

      More info: A Reverse Restomod Reshapes a 2008 Ford Mustang Into a 1969 Shelby GT

      This reverse restomod is named the F97, crafted by the German company Ruehle, which also has a branch in Montclair, California.

      997 Structure Beneath

      Following the trend of many companies creating backdated 911s, Ruehle’s vehicle draws significant influence from the iconic 1973 Carrera RSR while adding a modern flair. The key distinction is that the foundation of this car is a 997.

      For those unfamiliar with Porsche models, the 997 evolved from the first water-cooled 911, the 996, and was produced from late 2004 until 2012, when the considerably larger 991 succeeded it.

      The 997 is particularly noted for being the first 911 to feature a PDK transmission and adaptive dampers. Although it lacks an air-cooled engine, it was the last generation of sports cars to offer a conventional hydraulic power steering (the 991 transitioned to electronic power steering).

      Engine Enhancements Available

      Ruehle begins with the client’s chosen donor vehicle and replaces the original bodywork with newly created wide-arch panels. These panels are steel, just like those of the early models, and specifically designed for this project rather than salvaged from vintage 911s.

      Regular 997s had power outputs ranging from 321 hp (325 PS) for the pre-facelift 3.6 Carrera to 380 hp (385 PS) for the 3.8-liter 997.2 Carrera S, so they deliver considerable power as standard. However, Ruehle can install a custom 4.3-liter flat-six if more power is desired.

      The final cost varies based on the specifications chosen, with builds starting at $399,000 and a wait time currently estimated at six to eight months.

      While you'll end up spending significantly more and waiting longer for a Singer, Ruehle generously acknowledges the achievements of the US company and mentions they're not aiming for comparison.

      Starting with a Disadvantage

      The 964 and 993 backdates we are accustomed to are successful not only because the air-cooled engines and floor-mounted pedals create a traditional 911 driving experience but also because their proportions, such as the upright windshield positioned just inches from the driver, are authentic.

      More on: Mazda RX-8 Undergoes a Reverse Restomod With a ’70s Savannah RX-3 Facelift

      The 996 and 997 lack that authenticity (refer below); however, given the constraints, Ruehle has done a commendable job. The modern console switchgear, though, detracts from the interior, and we’ll hold off on judgment of the exterior until we have images displaying the complete profile.

      American enthusiasts can also participate in this project. In such instances, Ruehle uses a US-registered 997, which is sent to Germany for conversion before being returned to the customer to ensure compliance with all 50 states. However, opting for the engine upgrade could create smog-related issues.

      The 997 represents an excellent choice for an affordable used 911 that incorporates most of the modern amenities of a current Porsche while feeling appropriately ‘classic’ to drive compared to a highly refined 992.2.

      While there are valid reasons to purchase a stock version, what are your thoughts on this conversion? Would you invest $400,000 or more in one of these, or would you prefer to acquire a more authentic air-cooled RSR for the same price? Please share your thoughts in the comments.

This German 911 Appears to Be Straight Out of 1973, But It Conceals a Major Secret | Carscoops This German 911 Appears to Be Straight Out of 1973, But It Conceals a Major Secret | Carscoops This German 911 Appears to Be Straight Out of 1973, But It Conceals a Major Secret | Carscoops

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This German 911 Appears to Be Straight Out of 1973, But It Conceals a Major Secret | Carscoops

Rather than utilizing a G-series, 964, or 993 donor vehicle, Ruehle constructs its RSR replica using a contemporary 997.