1983 Porsche 911

After achieving a spectacular, first-place finish (Restoration Category) in the 2023 Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge, the Napleton Porsche of Westmont team faced a daunting task. A car had yet to be chosen for the 2024 competition. Some members had assumed different responsibilities. The pressure of a repeat performance weighed heavily on the dealership. Yet, in remarkable fashion, and in less than six months, the Porsche Classic team at Napleton Westmont, created a contender, fully capable of going heads up against any competitor. Spearheading the project was David Gerwen, Wholesale Parts Manager. Team members included the following Classic Certified technicians: Sean Kruse, Tony Lapinskas, Sam Mak, and Ed Zielke. Blake Thompson, the Porsche Classic Manager, provided input and inspiration. While Jeff Witham, the dealerships General Manager, enthusiastically supported the endeavor with a simple mantra, Make it a cool car! Oh yes, the car. The team chose a 1983 911SC coupe with 175,000 miles on its odometer. Sourced from a local shop that had simply waved the white flag on its restoration attempt, the SC arrived at the Napleton facility in serious neglect, its 3.0l engine strapped to a pallet.The first order of business was to determine in what class they would compete. Immediately, the Preservation Class was eliminatedtoo much paintwork was needed. The dealership had won the 2023 Restoration Class, and wanted to do something different. The Individualization Class was, therefore, the perfect fit. Based on the Porsche Sonderwunsch (Special Wishes) program, the Individualization Class promoted creativity, imagination and style, while incorporating Porsche Genuine Parts whenever possible. Gerwen reached back to his youth for inspiration. I was infatuated with the Porsche 911SCs that dominated the International Race of Champions (IROC), he said. The low stance, aggressive front clip, flared fenders, and ear-splitting exhaust, made our choice a no-brainer. We decided to build a IROC-style Tourer.The team did not modify the engine; rather, the engine was freshened, resealed, the fuel lines renewed, vacuum leaks addressed, and the wiring replaced. The SCs menacing stance was achieved using Elephant Racing components and suspension bits. The car rides on 17X7 and 17X9 Fuchs wheels, color matched to the exposed oil lines and PORSCHE logo ghosted on each side of the car.OHare Autobody, Napleton Porsches Certified Collision Center, refinished the exterior in Wimbledon White, a 60s-era Ford Motor Company color. Gold-tinted headlights complement the bold look. The interior of the SC further accentuates its IROC demeanor. The roll bar, which replaced the rear seats, provides added rigidity. Leather and Alcantara Recaro racing seats keep the driver and passenger firmly planted. With a slight nod to domesticity, a Porsche Classic Radio and steering wheel provide stylish touches. Alcantara door cards complete the look. David noted that this project brought all the team members and dealership employees together. It was a real morale builder. We forged lasting friendships.And finally, how does the 911SC run? Gerwen summed it up in this way: This is the best early 911 Ive ever driven. Turn in is sharp. The brakes are phenomenal. And that flat-six sound is inspirational. And loud. At 117 decibels, the exhaust note from the twin straight pipes rivals the volume level of a front row seat at a rock concert.Presently, this beautiful 911SC IROC Tourer is on display at Napleton Porsche of Westmont, available for purchase. It is your opportunity to own a Rock Star!