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Daytona 2026: Dates, Classes, and the Porsche Storylines to Watch at the Rolex 24
Daytona in January is endurance racing’s version of opening night on Broadway—except the stage is a 3.56-mile road course stitched into an oval, the show runs 24 straight hours, and the cast rotates through multiple classes at the same time. For Daytona 2026, Porsche fans have a lot to circle on the calendar, because the brand will be prominent in top-prototype, GT, and support-series action during the Rolex week. Below is the Porsche-focused guide: dates, classes, which races Porsche will run, and three Porsche-linked teams worth keeping tabs on.
Porsche “Sonderwunsch” Restoration: What It Really Is, What Porsche Can Rebuild, and How “Factory Fresh” It Gets
Porsche owners love two things at the same time: authenticity and individuality. One person wants their 1973 911 returned to the exact spec it left the factory with—down to the correct finish on a bracket no one will ever see. Another wants that same car restored perfectly, then finished in a color and interior combination Porsche never offered in that year… because it’s their dream. That’s where a common misconception pops up: Sonderwunsch isn’t a standalone “restoration division.” It’s Porsche’s ultra-high-end special request program—and when restoration is part of the ask, it’s delivered in partnership with Porsche Classic. Porsche itself describes Sonderwunsch as a three-pillar system—Factory Commission, Factory Re-Commission, and Factory One-Off—with Porsche Classic and Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur** involved depending on the age and scope of the project. So yes, restoration can absolutely be part of a Sonderwunsch journey—but the “restore it like Porsche would” expertise lives in Porsche Classic Factory Restoration, with Sonderwunsch providing the pathway for bespoke, personalized, and sometimes technically re-engineered outcomes.
Team Porsche Penske Motorsport: The 2026 Race Schedule, Classes, and the 2025 Podium Story That Set the Table
If you follow Porsche Penske Motorsport, you already know the vibe: two factory Porsche 963s, big-stakes endurance races, and the kind of operational polish that makes rivals nervous before the green flag even drops. For 2026, the headline is simple: Primary battleground: the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. Class: GTP (Grand Touring Prototype) with the Porsche 963 Big change, Porsche Penske’s factory WEC Hypercar program is out for 2026, so the team’s “where-to-watch” list is heavily IMSA-centric (even while Porsche continues endurance racing more broadly). Below is a clean, fan-friendly breakdown of the 2026 schedule, the driver lineup, and a look back at 2025 podiums/wins that explain why this team enters 2026 as the standard everyone else is chasing.
Porsche’s Shift from Air-Cooled to Liquid-Cooled Engines: The Change That Split a Fanbase—and Defined the Future
Few topics stir emotion among Porsche enthusiasts like the company’s move from air-cooled to liquid-cooled engines. It wasn’t just a technical update; it was a cultural earthquake. For decades, the sound, smell, and mechanical honesty of air-cooled flat-six engines defined what a Porsche was. Then, almost overnight, that era ended—and a new one began. Understanding when it happened, why it happened, and why air-cooled engines are still worshipped today helps explain Porsche’s past, present, and future better than almost any other chapter in the brand’s history.
2026 Porsche Carrera Cup: What Race Fans Can Expect From North America’s Sharpest One-Make Knife Fight
If you’ve ever watched a sprint race and thought, “This is great, but what if everyone had the exact same weapon?”—welcome to Porsche Carrera Cup North America in 2026. It’s eight weekends of identical-looking 911 Cup cars, drivers who treat an inch of asphalt like a personal property dispute, and races that are short enough to feel like a bar fight but strategic enough to punish impatience. For 2026, the series adds two big ingredients to the recipe: A new-generation Cup car (the Type 992.2 “911 Cup” debuting at the start of the season) and a schedule that mixes classic road courses with two Formula 1 support events and a return to Long Beach Each round features two 40-minute sprint races—which means no one has time to “settle in.” It’s go-time from the start.
Porsche 911 GT2 RS & GT2 RS Clubsport: The Widowmaker That Grew Up
There are fast cars, there are very fast cars, and then there are cars that feel like they were built after someone at the factory said, “What if we just stopped apologizing?” That’s where the Porsche 911 GT2 RS lives. The GT2 RS has always been the most unfiltered expression of Porsche’s rear-engine madness—big power, rear-wheel drive, minimal electronic safety nets, and a reputation that kept even experienced drivers honest. When Porsche paired that idea with a factory-built race version—the Porsche 911 GT2 RS Clubsport—the result became one of the most sought-after modern Porsches ever made. This isn’t nostalgia. This is physics, attitude, and limited production colliding at full throttle.
The Most Prestigious Porsche You Can Buy Today: The 911 GT3 RS
Ask ten Porsche people what the “most prestigious Porsche” is and you’ll get twelve answers—because Porsche prestige isn’t only about price. It’s about what the car represents: motorsport DNA, engineering purity, and the feeling that you’re holding a factory racing department’s attention span in your hands. If we’re talking a Porsche-enthusiast’s ultimate purchase today—the one that signals “I didn’t just buy a Porsche, I bought the Porsche”—the cleanest answer is the 911 GT3 RS. It’s not the most comfortable. It’s not the quietest. It’s not even the highest top-speed 911. But it’s the one that feels like Porsche’s competition soul made it through the front door, walked past the marketing department, and sat directly in your garage. And yes—it’s street legal, even though it behaves like it wants a pit lane wristband.
Team Porsche: Recapping the 2025 Race Season and What’s Next in 2026
“Team Porsche” in 2025 meant more than one championship—it was a season-long, multi-series campaign that stretched from Florida endurance classics to the World Endurance Championship’s globe-spanning calendar, with Porsche fighting for trophies in prototype racing, GT competition, and electric single-seaters. The headline: Porsche ended 2025 with major titles in North America, meaningful podiums (and a landmark win) on the world stage, and a clearer strategic shape for 2026 that rebalances factory priorities while keeping its customer-racing pipeline strong. Below is a practical recap of the 2025 season—drivers, classes, podium moments, and the circuits that defined the year—followed by what Porsche has already set in motion for 2026.
Porsche in the Vintage & Legends Racing World: The Annual Events Where History Still Runs Flat-Out
Porsche’s motorsport history isn’t locked away in museums—it shows up every year in a handful of “legends” and vintage race meetings where period-correct cars are not only displayed, but raced hard. These events matter because they keep the brand’s greatest eras alive: early lightweight sports racers, air-cooled 911 battlefields, turbo monsters from Group 5, and the thundering prototype icons that made Porsche a Le Mans powerhouse. Below is a practical guide to the major annual events where Porsche is a starring act, including what models appear, where the racing happens, and the notable drivers who often take the wheel.
Manthey Racing Model Catalog
A focused guide to the Porsche platforms Manthey builds, runs, and perfects Manthey Racing does not manufacture cars in the conventional sense. Instead, it operates as Porsche’s most specialized GT racing and performance partner, preparing race cars, running factory and customer programs, and developing tightly integrated performance packages for select Porsche road models. When enthusiasts or competitors talk about “Manthey cars,” they are usually referring to specific Porsche platforms prepared, operated, or upgraded by Manthey—each with a defined purpose, competitive environment, and performance legacy. This article presents Manthey Racing’s portfolio in a clear, model-by-model catalog format, covering what each model is, how Manthey uses it, where it competes or is driven today, whether other teams use Manthey-prepared cars, and which platforms have sustained winning records.
Manthey Racing: From a Nürburgring Privateer to Porsche’s GT Benchmark
Manthey Racing stands today as one of the most respected names in global GT and endurance motorsport. Known for its unmistakable presence at the Nürburgring, its record-setting victories in endurance racing, and its deep technical alignment with Porsche, the company’s rise was neither accidental nor instantaneous. Manthey Racing is the result of decades of focused specialization, disciplined engineering, and a culture shaped by one of the most demanding race tracks in the world. This is the story of how Manthey Racing began, how it became inseparably linked to Porsche, and how it evolved into a modern motorsport and performance-engineering powerhouse.
Porsche Motorsport North America: The Engine Room Behind Porsche Racing in the U.S. and Canada
Porsche Motorsport North America (PMNA) is the factory-backed organization that sits at the center of Porsche’s racing activity across the United States and Canada. Founded in 1985, PMNA serves as Porsche’s official motorsport arm for the region—and, crucially, the customer-facing bridge between Porsche’s global motorsport engineering and the teams, drivers, and owners who compete (or train) with Porsche machinery on North American circuits. In simple terms: PMNA is how Porsche “shows up” for racers in North America—with cars, parts, technical support, series infrastructure, and on-track programs that keep the brand’s competition pipeline healthy from grassroots to the top tiers of professional endurance racing.
Manthey Racing’s IMSA Arrival: Why 2026 Marks a Major Moment for Porsche GT Racing
When Manthey Racing confirmed plans to enter IMSA endurance competition in 2026, the announcement quietly signaled one of the most important Porsche GT developments in recent years. For a team whose identity has been forged at the Nürburgring and refined through elite European endurance racing, IMSA represents both a new frontier and a natural evolution. This is not Manthey “trying something new.” It is Manthey exporting a proven Porsche GT formula to North America—one built on discipline, durability, and relentless optimization. At the center of this expansion will be the Porsche 911 GT3 R, a machine Manthey knows better than almost anyone outside Weissach.
Porsche Sprint Trophy Porsche Club of America: A Factory-Backed Bridge Between Club Racing and the Porsche Motorsport Pyramid
The Porsche Sprint Trophy Porsche Club of America (PCA) is a new, factory-supported one-make championship created in collaboration between Porsche Motorsport North America (PMNA) and the Porsche Club of America (PCA). Built to live inside established PCA Club Racing weekends, the series is designed to do two things at once: provide a professional-style introduction for newer racers stepping into modern Porsche race cars, and remain a high-level destination for experienced club competitors who want structured, prestigious one-make racing without leaving the PCA community. With a four-round calendar at iconic U.S. circuits and two dedicated car classes (GT3 Cup and Cayman), Porsche Sprint Trophy PCA is positioned as a clean on-ramp to Porsche’s broader North American motorsport ladder—progressing from grassroots competition toward Sprint Challenge, Endurance Challenge, and beyond.
Manthey Racing’s Sepang Podiums: How the Two Porsches Opened the 2024/25 Asian Le Mans Series
Manthey Racing’s debut weekend in the 2024/25 Asian Le Mans Series at Sepang International Circuit wasn’t a quiet “let’s learn the ropes” outing—it was a statement that the Porsche GT specialists had arrived ready to fight. Across the season-opening double-header, Manthey entered two Porsche 911 GT3 R (992) cars in the GT class and left Malaysia with two podium finishes—one for each entry—despite a weekend that included drama, setbacks, and a full rebound story arc. Sepang matters because it’s an endurance track that demands everything at once: tire management through long loaded corners, traffic strategy, and enough stability to survive heat, humidity, and relentless stint cycles. For a team stepping into a new championship, a Sepang weekend like this is the kind of performance that builds belief inside the garage—and forces rivals to pay attention.
The RUF Rodeo: A Baja-Style Love Letter to the 911… Without Being a 911
There are two kinds of “off-road sports cars” in the world. The kind that look like they could hop a dune, but you’d still feel guilty driving them over a pothole and the kind that show up wearing rally tires, a roll cage, and an expression that says, “Point me at the rough stuff, buddy.” The RUF Rodeo is very much the second kind. It’s the sort of machine that makes you grin because it’s so delightfully unnecessary. Like putting a leather interior in a bulldozer… except the bulldozer has 610 horsepower, a manual gearbox, and an all-wheel-drive system you can adjust like you’re dialing in a race car. And the big twist? It isn’t a Porsche. It looks like the spirit of an older 911 got out of the museum, put on hiking boots, and moved to the desert—but RUF builds cars under its own manufacturer status, with its own engineering, not just bolt-on tuning.
Porsche Speedster: The “Purist Convertible” Lineage, Model Years, and Why It Matters
In Porsche language, “Speedster” isn’t just a trim level it’s a recurring design idea that appears when Porsche wants to build the most minimalist, driver-first open car in its lineup. Across generations, Speedsters have been defined by the same visual signatures: a lower, more steeply raked windshield, a simple fabric top designed more for emergency use than daily convenience, and a distinctive rear deck with the “double-hump” cover** behind the seats. Those cues separate a Speedster from an ordinary Cabriolet, even when the underlying chassis is shared. The result is a series of low-production, high-personality Porsches that collectors love because they combine rarity, heritage, and a very specific driving vibe more roadster than luxury convertible.
The East African Safari Classic: Where Rally History Still Bites Back
The East African Safari Classic is widely regarded as one of the toughest historic rally events in the world. Run across the unforgiving landscapes of Kenya, the rally is not about glamour, short sprint stages, or pristine tarmac. Instead, it is a long, punishing test of endurance, navigation, mechanical sympathy, and survival much closer in spirit to rallying’s raw origins than to the modern World Rally Championship. Often described as “the toughest rally you’ll ever finish”, the event attracts elite historic rally drivers, endurance specialists, and former factory professionals who want to experience rallying as it once was: unpredictable, brutal, and relentlessly physical.
Manthey locks in 2026 FIA WEC LMGT3 driver lineups for two Porsche 911 GT3 R entries
Manthey has confirmed the full driver rosters for its two Porsche 911 GT3 R LMGT3 entries in the 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), a season the team will approach with a clear target: extend its recent run of top-class results and chase a third straight year of LMGT3 supremacy. The announcement finalizes a six-driver structure split across two cars, blending returning champions with new arrivals—including a WEC debutant stepping into one of the most pressure-heavy seats in the category. In 2026, Manthey will field the No. 91 “Manthey DK Engineering” Porsche 911 GT3 R, and the No. 92 “The Bend Manthey” Porsche 911 GT3 R. What makes this lineup story especially notable is the contrast between the two crews: one is a newly assembled trio anchored by WEC experience from outside the team, while the other retains proven Manthey continuity built around championship-winning chemistry.
2026 Porsche 911 GT3 R Rennsport: Heritage, Performance, and the Pinnacle of Customer Racing
The Porsche GT3 R Rennsport represents the convergence of Porsche’s modern GT3 racing technology and the brand’s deeply rooted motorsport heritage. More than just a specification or badge, “Rennsport” is a philosophy that defines how Porsche builds race cars, supports customer teams, and sustains its presence on the world’s most demanding circuits. For the 2026 season, the 911 GT3 R Rennsport stands as one of the most refined customer race cars ever produced by Porsche—engineered not only to win races, but to endure the physical, financial, and operational demands of global GT competition.
Manthey Racing in the Asian Le Mans Series: What 2024/25 Proved—and What 2025/26 Could Bring
The Asian Le Mans Series (ALMS) has become one of endurance racing’s sharpest winter proving grounds: six four-hour races, staged as double-headers across three circuits—Sepang (Malaysia), Dubai Autodrome (UAE), and Yas Marina (Abu Dhabi, UAE). For teams and drivers, it’s equal parts sprint intensity and endurance discipline—traffic, strategy, and clean execution, repeated weekend after weekend with no time to hide weak links. For Manthey Racing, the series quickly became more than a “winter program.” The Porsche powerhouse arrived, learned fast, and left with silverware—then immediately committed to run it back.
Porsche Rally Trophy Benelux: A One-Make Rally Series Built Around the 911 Rally GT (992.1)
Porsche is taking a distinctly modern swing at an old idea: putting a 911 on rally stages—not as a one-off spectacle, but as the foundation of a structured, one-make rally trophy. Launching in 2026, the Porsche Rally Trophy Benelux is positioned as the first official Porsche rally one-make series, centered on the 911 Rally GT—a rally-homologated kit derived from the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (Type 992.1). The concept is simple and bold: take the sound, speed, and proven reliability of Porsche’s Cup race car, adapt it for the unique demands of rallying, and then let identical cars fight it out on some of Western Europe’s most respected asphalt events.
Porsche Unveils the 2026 911 GT3 R: A New Chapter in Customer Racing Excellence
Porsche has officially unveiled the 911 GT# R, continuing the marque’s long-standing dominance in GT3 customer racing. Built on the proven 992-generation platform, the 2026 model represents an evolutionary step rather than a radical redesign, focusing on drivability, efficiency, and long-race consistency—key attributes for professional teams and serious privateers alike. As with previous GT3 R models, Porsche’s philosophy remains clear: deliver a race car that can win at the highest level of global GT3 competition while remaining accessible and supportable for customer teams around the world.
Porsche Penske Motorsport: Defining the Modern IMSA Prototype Era
Few partnerships in modern motorsport carry the weight, credibility, and results of Porsche Penske Motorsport. Formed to spearhead Porsche’s return to top-level prototype racing, the alliance combines Porsche’s endurance-racing engineering heritage with Team Penske’s unmatched operational discipline in North American motorsport. In the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, Porsche Penske Motorsport has quickly become the benchmark team in the GTP (Grand Touring Prototype) class, delivering championships, marquee race wins, and a steady stream of podium finishes. This article explores the team’s IMSA journey, its recent podium record, and why the Porsche prototypes they race stand apart in both design and philosophy.
The 1998 RUF CTR2: Why This “Not-a-911” Is Worth a Small Fortune
If you grew up thinking the fastest thing on four wheels in the ’90s had to be some poster-car exotic with scissor doors, the RUF CTR2 is the plot twist. It looks like a Porsche 911 (because it’s based on the 993-generation 911 Turbo), but it comes from RUF Automobile—a manufacturer in its own right—and it was engineered to embarrass supercars on their own turf. And today? The 1998-era CTR2 and especially the CTR2 Sport have become “unicorn” collectibles that can trade hands for seven figures—sometimes well into the multi-millions depending on spec, history, and originality.
Manthey’s 2026 FIA WEC Lineup: New Names, New Partners, Same LMGT3 Ambition
Manthey Racing heads into the 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) with a lineup built to do one thing: keep the team at the sharp end of LMGT3. After establishing itself as the category’s benchmark across the first two LMGT3 seasons, Manthey is doubling down on a formula that blends Porsche GT experience, endurance craft, and fresh driver energy—while also reshaping its identity through new partner banners and a notable shift away from its 2025 structure. In short: 2026 isn’t a reset. It’s a targeted evolution.
Porsche 911 GT3 “Touring” – A Tribute to Ferdinand Alexander Porsche
The Porsche 911 GT3 Touring Package stands as one of the most meaningful modern tributes Porsche has created—not through badges or plaques, but through philosophy. Introduced as a purist alternative to the winged GT3, the Touring Package embodies the design and engineering values of Ferdinand Alexander Porsche (F. A. Porsche): restraint, clarity, and function-driven beauty. While not branded as a formal “special edition,” the GT3 Touring is widely understood as a spiritual homage to the man who shaped the original 911. This is the story of F. A. Porsche, why the GT3 Touring exists, and how its specifications, production numbers, and design choices reflect his legacy.
When Road Legality Becomes a Technicality
There are road cars, there are track cars, and then there are machines so extreme they force you to ask uncomfortable questions about homologation committees, rulebooks, and how closely anyone was paying attention. The Manthey-tuned sits firmly in that last category. The standard GT3 RS was already Porsche’s most unhinged road-going creation. Manthey—seven-time Nürburgring 24-hour winners and Porsche’s newly acquired black-ops speed division—looked at it and calmly decided it still wasn’t enough. What follows is not a tuner special, not a styling exercise, and not a marketing gimmick. It is a road-legal car shaped almost entirely by race logic, endurance data, and Nürburgring obsession.
Porsche GT4: Where the Cayman Goes Racing Every Year—and 3 Teams to Watch in 2026
“Porsche GT4” usually means customer racing built around the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport family, now led by the 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport—a turnkey race car homologated for GT4 competition worldwide. Porsche positions it as eligible for all homologated GT4 series, and notes it competes across 20+ international series and events, spanning sprint and endurance formats. What makes GT4 so compelling is the formula: cars that stay closer to production roots than GT3, tight “Balance of Performance” racing, and a calendar that touches everything from global SRO championships to national series and Porsche’s own one-make ladders. Below is a practical guide to the races Porsche GT4 cars are entered in each year (the “usual suspects” you’ll see season after season), plus three Porsche teams worth following heading into the 2026 season.
Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS: Where “Road Car” and “Race Car” Shake Hands
The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS is one of those cars that makes you wonder if Porsche’s engineers have a secret competition to see who can get away with the most track hardware on a license plate. It’s a mid-engine coupe that sounds like a Cup car, responds like a scalpel, and—here’s the important part—sits right at the crossroads of street performance and customer racing. Because when people say “GT4 RS in racing,” they’re usually talking about its sibling: the 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport, the factory-built race car homologated for GT4 competition. Porsche’s own motorsport site lists the Clubsport’s core numbers (roughly 500 hp, 7-speed PDK, 1,330 kg) and positions it squarely as a GT4 customer race car. So let’s do this in a way that makes sense: what it is, what series it runs, who runs it, how it did in 2025, where it races in 2026, and why it’s not the same animal as a 911 GT3 RS.
Manthey Racing: Origins, Legacy & Present
Manthey Racing’s story begins in 1996, when former German racer and engineer Olaf Manthey founded Manthey-Racing GmbH after years working as a driver and technical leader in touring car racing. The team quickly became synonymous with Porsche GT competition, debuting in the Porsche Supercup in 1996 and then dominating the series from 1997 to 2000 with four consecutive championships. Manthey simultaneously established a deep connection to the Nürburgring through the VLN endurance series, building a home-track advantage that remains central to its identity. A class win on its 1999 debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans accelerated Manthey’s rise and strengthened ties with Porsche, leading to steady expansion in racing, engineering, and performance services. Over time, Manthey evolved from a customer team into a de facto works-level partner, a relationship formalized in 2013 when Porsche acquired a majority stake. Today, Manthey competes globally in endurance racing, including the FIA World Endurance Championship, Asian Le Mans Series, and Nürburgring events, while continuing to rack up wins and class victories. Its reputation rests on Nürburgring mastery, engineering integration, endurance reliability, and adaptability—qualities that make Manthey one of the most respected and feared names in modern GT racing.
93rd 24 Hours of Le Mans: LMGT3 Victory for Manthey 1st Phorm
The 93rd running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans delivered another reminder that endurance racing rewards the teams who can combine speed with patience—and nowhere was that clearer than in LMGT3, where Manthey 1st Phorm captured the class win with the #92 Porsche 911 GT3 R. In a category built on tightly managed performance windows, traffic management, and relentless consistency, Manthey’s victory wasn’t just a trophy—it was a statement about preparation, execution, and what a world-class customer racing operation looks like on the sport’s biggest stage.
RUF and the “Yellowbird”: The Complete Story of the Porsche-Based Supercar That Rewrote the Rulebook
In the car world, there are fast cars—and then there are cars that change what “fast” even means. The RUF CTR, forever nicknamed the “Yellowbird,” is one of those rare machines. It looked like a tidy, narrow-bodied 911 to the untrained eye, but in the late 1980s it delivered speed that embarrassed the era’s poster cars and helped define the modern “boutique supercar” category. To understand the Yellowbird, you have to understand RUF itself: not just a tuner, but a recognized manufacturer with its own VINs, engineering philosophy, and an obsession with building the most capable, most uncompromising version of a Porsche-shaped idea.
Porsche Manthey Racing Performance Packages: Track-Bred Precision for Porsche GT Cars
Manthey Racing’s name carries real weight in the Porsche world—earned the hard way, through decades of endurance racing and relentless Nürburgring development. That same race-first mindset is what Porsche and Manthey have brought to the road with the Manthey Performance Kits: factory-sanctioned upgrade packages for certain Porsche GT models that focus on three pillars—aerodynamics, chassis/handling, and braking consistency—to make already brilliant cars feel sharper, calmer at the limit, and faster over a full lap. Manthey describes its kits as the result of “countless kilometres” of testing and track driving, with components “precisely tuned” to increase control at the limit. ([Manthey Racing][1])
Porsche Cayman GT4: The Mid-Engine Sweet Spot for People Who Actually Drive
If you’ve ever wished Porsche would bottle the best parts of a GT car—precision, feedback, braking confidence—and pour it into something smaller, lighter, and less “look at me,” the **Cayman GT4** has always been the answer. It’s the car that takes the Cayman’s mid-engine balance and turns the volume up with real GT hardware: aero that works, suspension that talks, and a personality that feels happiest when you’re chasing an apex. But “Cayman GT4” isn’t just one thing anymore. Over time it became a **mini line-up**—from the original GT4 to the later 718 GT4, and then the full send: **GT4 RS**. And depending on where you live, what’s available (and for how long) is part of the story, too.
Where to Get Porsche-Exclusive Race Training and a Real License to Race
If your goal is Porsche-only instruction, a recognized racing license, and a legitimate pathway toward driving real Porsche race cars like the GT3 R or the GT4 RS Clubsport, the process is structured—but achievable. Porsche has one of the clearest motorsport ladders in the world, designed to take drivers from track-day skill building all the way to professional customer racing. This guide explains where to train, what licenses actually matter, how Porsche customer racing works, and how drivers realistically get hired by real teams.
2025 Porsche 911 Spirit 70: Disco-Era Style, Modern Hybrid Muscle
Some cars are built to be fast. Some are built to be pretty. And once in a while, a manufacturer builds something that’s basically a rolling time machine—only it starts every morning, doesn’t leak, and can still embarrass modern supercars on an on-ramp. That’s the idea behind the Porsche 911 Spirit 70, unveiled in April 2025 as a limited-run Heritage Design model. It’s a 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet underneath, but dressed like it just left a 1978 showroom—gold accents, retro graphics, and an interior pattern that looks like it belongs on the coolest living-room sofa your friend’s parents had in 1979.
Tartan in Porsche Sports Cars: How the Scottish Highlands Snuck Into Stuttgart
There are a few things you expect to find in a Porsche: a flat engine (usually), a key that still goes on the left (because racing), and a level of engineering that feels like someone’s personal grudge against mechanical failure. A tartan interior, though? That sounds like something that should come with a pipe, a castle, and a dramatic monologue about family honor. And yet, tartan has been part of Porsche’s story for decades—popping up in some of the brand’s most iconic cars, disappearing for a while, then coming back like a great song from the ‘70s that suddenly sounds perfect again.
Porsche Manthey Racing: The Nürburgring-Born Specialists Behind Porsche’s Sharpest GT Weapons
If Porsche GT racing has a “secret sauce,”Manthey Racing is one of the biggest reasons it tastes so good. Based in Meuspath, right by the Nürburgring, Manthey has spent decades turning Porsche GT cars into relentlessly effective race tools—then translating that know-how into components and “kits” that make track-focused road cars even faster. Manthey’s own positioning is blunt: the Nürburgring is home, and the track’s demands are the foundation of what they build. ([manthey-racing.com][1]) In 2025, Manthey isn’t just a team that races Porsches. It’s an organization that has mastered a product loop: race → test → engineer → refine → win → deliver that learning back into hardware and preparation.
The RUF Turbo R Cabriolet: The One-Open-Top RUF That Proved Genius Doesn’t Need a Roof
In the late 1990s, Porsche’s air-cooled era was nearing its finale, and the 993 Turbo was already a superhero in showroom form—compact, brutally quick, and blessed with all-wheel drive traction that made big power feel usable. But Alois Ruf Jr. has never been in the business of leaving “good enough” alone. Where Porsche engineered a world-class sports car, RUF saw raw material for something rarer, sharper, and more personal: a hand-built, manufacturer-level reinterpretation that pushed the 993 concept into boutique-supercar territory. That’s how the RUF Turbo R was born—and from that already scarce line, one unicorn emerged: the RUF Turbo R Cabriolet, widely described as the sole Cabriolet produced. This isn’t simply a “converted convertible.” It’s the open-top outlier from a micro-production run—an ultra-rare RUF built with the same seriousness as the coupes, but with the extra engineering challenge of delivering stability, strength, and speed without a fixed roof.
RUF Tribute: An All-New “Air-Cooled 911” That Porsche Can’t Build (Even If It Wanted To)
The RUF Tribute is one of those cars that makes you do a double-take, then a triple-take, then you start leaning in like you’re trying to figure out how a magic trick works. At a glance, it looks like the air-cooled Porsche 911 you grew up idolizing—the wide hips, the whale-tail attitude, the proportions that scream “old-school Turbo.” But here’s the twist: it’s not a restomod and it’s not a Porsche. It’s a brand-new, low-volume RUF built to modern standards, with a newly engineered air-cooled twin-turbo flat-six that exists largely because RUF decided logic was overrated.
Porsche 911 GT3 RS with Weissach Package: The Option That Turns a Monster Into a Scapel
The 911 GT3 RS is already the kind of car that makes you check your pockets for a helmet before you leave the driveway. It’s loud, sharp, and engineered around one simple idea: more grip, more downforce, more control. Then Porsche offers the Weissach Package, and suddenly the RS goes from “track weapon” to “track weapon with the safety off.” But what does it actually add? Does it change resale value? And is it some secret club only GT3 RS owners can join? Let’s break it down in plain English.
SEMA Roadster Shop Award 2023: The Top Contenders
The SEMA Show is the automotive aftermarket's most prestigious gathering, and the Roadster Shop has consistently been at the forefront of custom builds and design innovation. For the 2023 edition of the SEMA Show, the Roadster Shop Award recognized the epitome of custom car design, engineering, and craftsmanship.
SEMA Roadster Shop AWARD 2023
At SEMA 2023, The Roadster Shop's standout blend of classic charm & futuristic tech was a highlight. Renowned for their automotive artistry, their creation was a marvel at the event. Dave Kindig aims for the Best On RS 2023 award with a Roadster Shop Chassis. The emphasis is on the art, innovation, and love of cars, urging enthusiasts to continue pushing boundaries in custom builds.
Goodguys Car Show and the SEMA Awards 2023: A Tradition of Excellence Continues
In 2023, the Goodguys Car Show celebrated classic cars, while SEMA emphasized electric tech. Their collaboration merged old designs with new innovations, highlighting the evolving reverence in car culture.
SEMA 2023
SEMA 2023 in Las Vegas was an electrifying showcase of automotive passion and innovation. The event is described as a blend of nostalgia and future, with standout builds and iconic personalities. It's not just a trade show, but a celebration of car culture, hinting that the best is yet to come. The advice? Avoid boring cars and keep innovating. See you on the road!
Unveiling the Porsche 356: A Timeless Tale of Driving Elegance
Hey there, legends and fellow admirers of life on wheels! Joe Clarke here, your friendly neighborhood car enthusiast and a connoisseur of all things sleek and fast. Today, I want to take you on a time-traveling joyride back to the roots of automotive magnificence – the introduction of the *Porsche 356*. Buckle up, because this journey is going to be smoother than a well-tailored suit on a red carpet.
Kindig It Designs
Dave Kindig of Kindig-It Design from Salt Lake City, known for creating Bitchin' Rides. Kindig's shop blends creativity with automotive mastery, and his work, seen on Motortrend's 'Bitchin' Rides', sets the gold standard in custom car design.
Dave Kindig The Maestro of Modern Hot Rods
Dave Kindig, of Kindigit Designs, has transformed the custom car world with his blend of artistry and engineering. From Salt Lake City to TV's "Bitchin' Rides", Kindig's creations, merging vintage charm with modern innovations, epitomize the pinnacle of automotive craftsmanship and legacy.
The GT2 RS Clubsport 2022: Manthey’s Rendition of Porsche Perfection
The 2022 GT2 RS Clubsport is Manthey Racing's pinnacle of Porsche engineering, showcasing superior aerodynamics, enhanced power, and a race-inspired cockpit. A blend of luxury and racing prowess, it offers an unparalleled driving experience, representing decades of racing expertise and track dominance. It's more than a car; it's Manthey's racing legacy embodied.
Gunther Werks® Porsche Speedster®: Blurring the Lines Between Art and Engineering
Gunther Werks®, led by Peter Nam, reimagines the iconic Porsche Speedster®. Retaining its classic silhouette, they add a muscular stance and a powerful 4.0-liter engine with 435 hp. The interior blends vintage with modern, offering a pure driving experience. Praised for respecting the original while innovating, the Gunther Werks Speedster is a masterful blend of tradition and modern engineering.
Gunther Werks 911 Turbo: A Bespoke Force of Nature
Gunther Werks reimagines the iconic Porsche® 911 Turbo, blending respect for its history with modern audacity. Helmed by Peter Nam, they retain the car's silhouette but infuse it with over 700 horsepower from a 4.0-liter engine and updated interiors. While purists were skeptical, the craftsmanship and enhanced driving experience earned admiration.
Kindig It Designs CF1: A Masterpiece of Modern Craftsmanship
Kindigit Designs' introduces a masterpiece, the CF1. Combining modern luxury with vintage elegance, the CF1 boasts flawless aesthetics, powerful performance, luxurious interiors, and is set to be an automotive collector's dream.
Gunther Werks® Porsche® 911 Coupe: A Modern Classic Reimagined
Gunther Werks' remastered Porsche 911® Coupe melds timeless design with modern innovation. They've sculpted its silhouette, enhanced power output, and fused vintage aesthetics with contemporary tech inside. This limited-run masterpiece balances power, poise, and driving intimacy. It's not just a custom Porsche but a testament to visionary craftsmanship, bridging respect for heritage with future-forward thinking.
The Kindig It University
Lincoln Tech's Kindig Academy, co-founded with car designer Dave Kindig, offers a blend of traditional education and innovative car customization. Merging hands-on experience with academic rigor, students learn from legends, turning their automotive dreams into reality. The partnership epitomizes the harmonious blend of tech and tradition in modern car design.
The Kindig It Team
In Salt Lake City's Kindigit Designs, Dave Kindig's visions become automotive art, with a dedicated team turning sketches into show-stoppers. Known for perfection, their creations merge design and engineering, making Kindigit a revered name in custom cars.
Roadster Shop: From Humble Beginnings to Automotive Titans
When one thinks of the pantheon of custom car builders who’ve made indelible marks on the automotive industry, the Roadster Shop undoubtedly sits in the upper echelon. With a rich history that spans decades, the Roadster Shop has evolved from a modest operation to a powerhouse known for unparalleled craftsmanship and innovation. Join us as Motortrend delves into the storied journey of this iconic brand.
Radford Racing School: From Humble Beginnings to Racing Icon
The Radford Racing School in Chandler, Arizona, formerly known as the Bob Bondurant School, has been a hallmark in American motorsport training since 1968. Prioritizing a holistic approach to racing, it offers diverse vehicles, expert instructors, and broad courses beyond racing. Despite challenges, its legacy shines with notable alumni and a forward-looking vision, embracing electric and autonomous tech. Radford symbolizes enduring motorsport excellence.
GPS Lap Timers: The Digital Edge to Track Dominance
Modern GPS lap timers offer racers precise data beyond just lap times, tracking G-forces, driving lines, and more. They integrate with vehicle telemetry, have video sync, and suit all budgets. Brands like RaceLogic, AiM, and Garmin lead the market. With evolving tech, the future promises AI insights and augmented reality, empowering racers to drive not just fast, but smart.
AiM Solo 2 DL & SmartyCam HD: The Dynamic Duo of Track Data and Visuals
AiM's Solo 2 DL offers precise vehicle metrics, while SmartyCam HD captures HD race visuals with data overlays. Together, they elevate race analysis for both pros and amateurs, streamlining the track experience.
AIM Solo 2 vs. Solo 2 DL: A Data-Driven Showdown
AIM's Solo 2 and Solo 2 DL offer top track day tech. Both provide precise GPS-driven data, predictive timing, and track analysis. Solo 2 DL stands out with ECU integration, capturing deeper vehicle details. While Solo 2 suits weekend racers seeking GPS insights, Solo 2 DL is for pros wanting comprehensive data.
AIM Solo 2: The Track Data Maestro
The AIM Solo 2 is a game-changer in motorsports, offering precision lap timing and data logging. Compact yet robust, it features a clear display, vast track database, real-time feedback, and detailed data points. User-friendly and affordable, it's essential for drivers aiming to enhance their performance.
1967 GT 500: Racing to Glory with the Shelby Touch
The 1967 GT 500, a product of Ford and Carroll Shelby's collaboration, stands as a racing icon. Born in the '60s, it combined Ford's engineering with Shelby's racing expertise. Beyond its powerful 428 cubic inch engine, its track successes solidified its legendary status. Today, it symbolizes Ford's racing heritage and enduring pursuit of excellence.
2018-2019 GT2 RS Clubsport: The Pinnacle of Passion and Precision
The 2018-2019 GT2 RS Clubsport is a pinnacle of Porsche's legacy, combining a 700hp engine with a blend of aesthetics and aggression. Beyond its performance, it stands as a testament to Porsche's commitment to driving excellence and innovation.
1967 Ford GT 500: Where Power Meets Prestige
The 1967 Ford GT 500, a fusion of power and prestige, epitomizes Ford's commitment to innovation and performance. Born in the muscle car era, its distinct design and 355 horsepower set it apart. Today, its legacy guides Ford's drive for excellence and embodies the brand's enduring spirit.
Manthey Racing: A Symphony of Speed and Precision
Manthey Racing and Porsche's collaboration epitomizes motorsport excellence. Founded by Olaf Manthey in 1996, the team, with Porsche, dominated worldwide circuits, especially the Nürburgring. Their bond transcends technology, rooted in passion and resilience. Facing challenges, they innovate for the future, creating racing poetry and setting benchmarks in the pursuit of perfection.
Lingenfelter Performance Engineering History
Lingenfelter Performance Engineering (LPE) is renowned for tuning, especially GM products. Founded by drag racer John Lingenfelter in 1973, LPE excels in enhancing Corvettes and Camaros. Despite John's tragic passing in 2002, under Ken Lingenfelter, the company has thrived, embracing modern tech for performance enhancements. LPE continues its legacy of racing spirit and engineering prowess.
Daytona International Speedway: A Legacy Etched in Asphalt
Daytona International Speedway, birthed in 1959 by NASCAR's Bill France Sr., is more than a racetrack—it's America's speed icon. From the inaugural Daytona 500 to modern upgrades, it's witnessed legendary races, evolving technology, and safety innovations. Beyond racing, Daytona supports the community and prepares for future motorsport evolutions. It embodies the spirit of competition and history.
SEMA Battle of the Builders
The SEMA Battle of the Builders, launched in 2014, is a top honor in custom car building. Held during the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, it celebrates the industry's best, with peer-judging and categories like Hot Rods and Young Guns. Winners gain major credibility, media attention, and business growth. It's not just an award, but a testament to a builder's excellence in the automotive world.
Goodguys Car Show: Clinching the SEMA Award - A Milestone in Hot Rod Legacy
At the SEMA Show, a Goodguys Car Show entry won the SEMA Award, showcasing a blend of classic and modern car design. This honor highlights Goodguys' dedication to both tradition and innovation in automotive culture.
Mid Ohio Race Track: Celebrating Over Six Decades of Racing Heritage
Since its inception in 1961, Ohio's Mid-Ohio Race Track has evolved from Les Griebling's vision into an iconic circuit hosting renowned racing events. Balancing modernization with legacy, it offers fans an unparalleled experience, champions sustainability, and stands as a monument to the spirit of motorsport.
Laguna Seca Raceway: The Corkscrew Legacy of Motorsport
Laguna Seca Raceway in California's Monterey Peninsula, born from a 1956 tragedy, evolved into an iconic 2.238-mile motorsport mecca. Celebrated for its challenging 'Corkscrew', the track intertwines history, community, and environmental care, making it much more than just a racetrack.
Sebring International Raceway: A Tale of Grit, Glory, and Asphalt
Established in 1950, Florida's Sebring International Raceway transformed from a WWII airfield to North America's oldest racing circuit. Known for the challenging 12 Hours of Sebring race, legends like Andretti have triumphed here. It remains a pivotal destination for motorsport fans.
1963 Corvette Split Window: A Visionary Masterpiece from Chevrolet
The 1963 Corvette Split Window epitomized Chevrolet's innovation with its unique design and powerful V8 engine. Celebrated for its iconic split rear window, it stands as a symbol of 1960s America and Chevrolet's enduring commitment to excellence.
Bondurant Racing School: A Legacy of Speed and Mastery
The Bondurant Racing School, founded by racer Bob Bondurant in 1968, stands as a pinnacle in American motorsports training. From its roots in California to its expansive facility in Arizona, it has shaped countless drivers, including stars like Jimmie Johnson. Facing challenges, yet persisting with a unique teaching philosophy, the school now eyes a tech-driven future. Bondurant symbolizes the art and passion of driving.
SEMA: A Journey Through the Automotive Aftermarket's Premier Event
SEMA, the pinnacle of the automotive aftermarket scene, began in 1963. From its modest 1967 debut at Dodger Stadium to its Las Vegas era and global recognition, SEMA has mirrored the industry's evolution. Adapting to challenges like COVID-19 and shifting focuses, from custom cars to electric vehicles, it represents the industry's resilience and innovation since the 1960s.
Gunther Werks®: Perfecting Porsche Perfection® - A Journey Through Time
Gunther Werks boldly reimagined the iconic Porsche 911, focusing on the beloved 993 model. Founded by Peter Nam, they enhanced the car's design and performance, using a 4.0-liter engine delivering 435 hp. Merging classic charm with modern luxury, they faced skepticism but proved critics wrong with superior handling and acceleration. More than tuners, Gunther Werks preserves Porsche's legacy while innovatively pushing boundaries.
Goodguys Car Show: A Retrospective on the Ultimate Classic Car Gathering
The Goodguys Car Show, started in 1983 by Gary Meadors, celebrates America's classic car culture. From its humble California beginnings, it's now a nationwide event blending tradition with modern trends. Beyond showcasing cars, it emphasizes community, preservation, and real-world experiences, even in today's digital age.
Porsche 911 Turbo: The Birth of the "Widowmaker"
The Porsche 911 Turbo, known as the "Widowmaker", epitomizes speed and precision. Born in 1974, its initial turbo lag and rear-engine layout made it exhilarating but demanding. Over time, Porsche refined its power and handling, maintaining its essence while enhancing safety and tech. Today's 911 Turbo blends luxury and performance, honoring its wild roots and standing as a beacon of automotive excellence.
1953 Corvette: The Birth of an American Icon
The 1953 Corvette, limited to 300 units, marked Chevrolet's foray into sports cars. With a distinctive fiberglass body and "Blue Flame" engine, it blended elegance with performance. This iconic model laid the groundwork for Chevrolet's legacy, epitomizing American automotive innovation and spirit.
Chevrolet's LSX Series: A Legacy of Power and Innovation
Chevrolet's LSX series, stemming from the 1955 Small Block V8, epitomizes innovation and power. Renowned for its precision engineering, versatile design, and racing legacy, the LSX combines history and high-performance. As automotive tech advances, Chevrolet's commitment to the LSX's unmatched performance remains steadfast.