Rally Reimagined: 1968 Porsche 911, 953 Tribute with Safari Modifications: This 1968 Porsche 911 coupe, transformed into a 953-style rally tribute, embodies the spirit of the Paris-Dakar Rally. Initially modified in the 1980s by Don Emory of Emory Motorsports, this 911 underwent further customization by Lorenzo Pearson, the late owner of West Coast Metric, becoming a 953 tribute. Featuring a lifted suspension, a roll cage, and safari-style bodywork, this 911 boasts a unique and rugged aesthetic. The car is finished in white and blue with Rothmans Porsche racing livery, and it rides on Fuchs-style 15” wheels with 30” tires. The race-prepped cabin, equipped with Recaro seats, Simpson harnesses, and a Lowrance navigation unit, reflects its rally-inspired design. Powered by a replacement 2.4-liter flat-six with Bosch mechanical fuel injection, this 911 is a blend of classic Porsche engineering and rally-ready enhancements.
Safari Styling: 953 Tribute Bodywork: The 911’s transformation includes steel wheel arch flares, a fiberglass hood and decklid, a rounded front valance, a roof escape hatch, a “whale tail” spoiler, and a perforated rear bumper. The car is refinished in white and blue with Rothmans Porsche graphics, paying homage to the 953 that competed in the 1984 Paris-Dakar Rally. Additional details include a front skidplate, a quarter-window fuel filler, H4 headlights, Lexan windows, 935-style side mirrors, and roof-mounted lights, all contributing to its rally-ready appearance.
Lifted and Rugged: Rally-Spec Suspension: The suspension has been lifted, and Bilstein shocks have been installed, providing increased ground clearance and improved off-road capability. Fuchs-style 15” wheels, refinished with blue recesses, are wrapped in 30.0×9.5” Dunlop Radial Mud Rover tires, ensuring excellent traction in challenging conditions. Braking is handled by four-wheel discs with slotted rotors, offering reliable stopping power.
Race-Prepped Cabin: Rally-Focused Interior: The cabin is protected by a welded-in roll cage, housing Recaro bucket seats with black upholstery and Simpson latch-and-link harnesses. Lightweight door panels, a PCI Race Radios 4-Link Pro intercom system, a Lowrance HDS5M navigation unit, and air horns enhance the car’s rally functionality. The carpets have been removed, and the central tunnel and footwells have been finished in black, reflecting its purpose-built design. A custom-fabricated fuel cell is mounted behind the seats, providing extended range.
2.4-Liter Flat-Six Power: Performance and Reliability: The replacement 2.4-liter flat-six engine, featuring Bosch mechanical fuel injection, is said to use a 1970 911E engine case and 911S camshafts, delivering reliable performance. Coated headers merge into a single exhaust pipe with a BMW-sourced muffler and a left-side outlet, enhancing the engine’s sound. A tune-up was performed in 2024, ensuring optimal performance.
Desert Conqueror: A 1968 Porsche 911 Rally Tribute: This 1968 Porsche 911, transformed into a 953-style rally tribute, embodies the spirit of adventure and performance. Its unique modifications, rally-ready features, and classic Porsche engineering make it a standout example of a custom-built rally car.
California Cruiser: A 1968 Porsche 911 Ready for Off-Road Adventures: This 1968 Porsche 911, with its lifted suspension, rally-inspired bodywork, and powerful engine, is ready for off-road adventures. Its combination of classic Porsche design and rugged modifications makes it a compelling choice for enthusiasts.
Summary:
- 1968 Porsche 911 coupe, white and blue Rothmans Porsche livery.
- 2.4-liter flat-six engine, Bosch mechanical fuel injection.
- Five-speed manual transaxle, lifted suspension with Bilstein shocks.
- Recaro bucket seats, Simpson harnesses, roll cage.
- Fuchs-style 15” wheels, 30” Dunlop Radial Mud Rover tires.
- 534 miles added since build completion.
Disclaimer: Vehicle specifications and condition are based on information provided. Prospective buyers are encouraged to conduct their own inspections and verify all information. The vehicle has been significantly modified with aftermarket components. The odometer reading reflects miles added since the build was completed.
Source: bringatrailer.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
