While Singer may have kicked off the air-cooled 911 renaissance, U.K.-based Theon Design has been quietly carving out its own reputation since 2016. And this latest commission proves they’re not just another player in the space. Founded by Adam Hawley (formerly of BMW, Jaguar, and Lotus), Theon operates from Oxfordshire’s “Motorsport Valley,” where F1 teams and competition suppliers give them access to aerospace-grade materials and cutting-edge engineering. Their latest project is a 964-based restomod that beats the 992 GT3 RS on power-to-weight while looking like it rolled off a ’70s showroom floor.
A Carbon-Bodied Sleeper
Finished in Medium Ivory with Grand Prix White racing stripes and Copper Brown metallic accents, this commission took 18 months to complete, starting with a bare 964 shell that was seam-welded for rigidity before being draped in Theon’s signature carbon fiber bodywork. The 20-stage paint process alone required over 300 hours, then sealed with full PPF protection. At just 2,535lbs, this thing weighs less than most modern hot hatches. Compare that to the GT3 RS’s 3,268lbs, and you see why Theon’s claiming a 0.166 hp/lb power-to-weight ratio versus Porsche’s 0.159.
Air-Cooled Perfection With RSR DNA
Under the engine cover sits a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six producing 420 hp at 7,600 rpm and 324 lb-ft of torque — more than double the output of the original 964’s 3.6-liter mill. But the real party trick are the open engine trumpets inspired by ’70s RSR race cars that deliver a pleasing intake rasp. Independent throttle bodies ensure instant response, while a valved exhaust lets you toggle between discreet and deafening. Power routes through a six-speed manual built to 993 RS specs, with pedals repositioned to fix the offset quirk of right-hand-drive 911s and encourage proper heel-and-toe shifts.
The chassis gets TracTive semi-active dampers with five adjustable stages controlled via a steering column dial, calibrated specifically for British roads with touring-focused springs. Wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sports with actual sidewall, the 17-inch wheels add compliance.
Beauty on the Outside Too
The aesthetic details are where Theon separates itself, with champagne-finished 17-inch Fuchs-style wheels, polished Eclipse Chrome brightwork, and 993 RS brake calipers in Copper Brown that tie back to the door scripts.
Inside, the cabin trades plastic switchgear for machined billet aluminum controls, while Recaro CS seats feature carbon fiber backs and woven Tobacco nubuck leather with Ivory contrast stitching. The rear seat delete makes room for a carbon storage deck and bespoke luggage set. Audio comes courtesy of an Audison amplifier driving six Focal speakers plus dual subwoofers, controlled by a center console knob that maintains the analog vibe. There’s even wireless phone charging tucked into an extended center console.
Spec Sheet
Model: Theon Design 964 Restomod
Engine: 4.0L Air-Cooled Flat-Six
Power: 420 hp
Torque: 324 lb-ft
Weight: 2,535 lbs
Power-to-Weight: 0.166 hp/lb
0-60: Under 4 seconds
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual (993 RS Spec)
Wheels: 17″ Fuchs-Style Three-Piece
Suspension: TracTive Semi-Active Dampers
Pricing & Availability
Theon Design commissions start at £420,000 (~$530,000) for coupes, with each build requiring 18 months to complete. Pricing excludes the donor 964, shipping, and local taxes.
Recap
Theon Design Porsche 964 Restomod
Theon Design’s latest 964 restomod packs a 420-hp air-cooled flat-six into a 2,535-pound carbon body, giving it a better power-to-weight ratio than Porsche’s own GT3 RS, all while looking like a tastefully restored ’70s 911. It’ll cost you around $530,000 and take 18 months to build, but you’re getting UK motorsport engineering wrapped in period-correct elegance.
