Porsche 964 Targa Ares

For the Porsche 964 Targa, the design brief for ARES was to reimagine what a modern-era incarnation of the classic model would resemble. The car had to retain the iconic looks of the original while matching its current levels of performance and practicality. The thoroughly re-engineered 964 now has the engine, gearbox and chassis from a modern-day Porsche 997 while Porsche’s Active Suspension Management system and the 997’s stability control are included. In short, it’s a stunning contemporary reinterpretation of the 964 Targa. The Porsche 964 is undoubtedly one of the most iconic 911s ever, a car whose design has become a symbol of the Porsche brand over time. The aim for the ARES Centro Stile was therefore not to distort its form, but enhance it update it through targeted modifications, allowing it to accommodate the present day high-performance mechanics and underpinnings. To start the transformation; the 964 was stripped back, and modifications were carried out to its shell and chassis allowing the otherwise classic-looking model to accommodate the engine, chassis and suspension from the significantly wider 997, and the front and rear wings and bumpers from a 964 Turbo model. With the body and drivetrain now thoroughly updated attention was turned to the 964’s interior. Designers installed the 997’s instruments in a bespoke housing and integrated its air conditioning system. Infotainment is taken care of by the Porsche Classic Communication Management navigation and hi-fi system, while the car’s wiring loom was replaced with 997 components to ensure complete reliability. Just as modern mechanics blend perfectly with classic bodywork lines, so today’s interior components find their place in the 964’s traditional dashboard. The instruments, PDK gear stick and infotainment system: every detail combines today’s functionality with yesterday’s appearance. The beating heart of the ARES for Porsche 964 Targa is its modern mechanics, belonging to the 997 generation of the famous German sports car. Onboard, the classic 6-cylinder boxer engine, but with water cooling and displacement increased to 3996cc. This engine, capable of 470hp, is driven by the dual-clutch 7-speed PDK transmission. The 964’s suspension and chassis are also updated, allowing enhanced driving performance inline with the new, and more powerful, engine. The 964 comes equipped with the advanced PASM Porsche Active Suspension Management system, which continually monitors the behaviour of each wheel and absorber, allowing the driver to choose between different driving modes.