► Singer’s 964-based ACS project
► Turbocharged and lifted with AWD
► It’s ready to slay any wilderness
Singer has taken its re-engineering talents off the beaten track. This is the All-Terrain Competition Study – a 964-generation project that’s inspired by Porsche’s rallying history. The ACS comes three years after the jaw-dropping DLS, where it worked with Williams. We’d argue this is just as drool-inducing.
The team has worked with Richard Tuthill and his restoration facility, after a long-standing client of Singer approached it to dream up a 911 that could compete in off-road motorsports like the Dakar Rally and Baja 1000. On top of the Parallax White version, another in Corsica Red has been commissioned – designed more for tarmac events.
While it might not look it, there are still plenty of 964-generation bits of DNA. The engine is a 3.6-litre air-cooled ‘Mezger’ flat-six, producing around 450bhp and 420lb ft. That engine has, of course, been modified quite a bit; twin-turbos feature (instead of the 964 Turbo’s single), as does a five-speed sequential capable of flat shifting that’s equipped with wheel-mounted shift paddles. Power is sent to all four wheels via three mechanical differentials – one on each axle and another central one.
If the client ever were to enter this beast into an off-road motorsport, the ACS is equipped with a long-range fuel tank, two spare wheels, FIA-spec rollcage and drinks systems for driver and navigator. That’s on top of the rally-spec suspension with five-way adjustable dampers and off-road tyres.
Tuthill’s experience in the mix is welcomed. His restoration facility, Tuthill Porsche, specialises in prepping classic Porsche’s for motorsport both on and off road. He had a hand in preparing shells for Colin McRae’s WRC-spec Subaru Legacy. ‘I am delighted to have now partnered with the team at Singer to bring this incredible machine to life,’ he said, ‘I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved.’
‘Richard Tuthill and his incredible team have allowed us to bring our vision for the All-terrain Competition Study to life in the most spectacular way,’ said boss of Singer, Rob Dickinson. ‘This pursuit of focused competition studies is something you will see more of from us in the future.’