The British workshop Theon Design, specializing in high-end restomods based on the Porsche 911 generation 964, produced from 1989 to 1994, has introduced its first model with a removable roof — Theon GBR003 Targa. It takes 18 months to manufacture one such car.
Theon Design was founded in 2016 by car enthusiast and entrepreneur Adam Howley, headquartered on the outskirts of Oxfordshire County between the town of Deddington and the village of Clifton. Theon Design is considered one of the world’s top specialists in the restomodding of classic Porsche 911 alongside companies such as Singer, Sportec, Paul Stephens, Gunther Werks, and KAMManufaktur. The reputation of Theon Design is earned through high engineering standards, attention to detail, and careful preservation of the original design of classic Porsche 911.
Theon GBR003 Targa is the first restomod by Theon Design with a removable roof, as the British workshop previously worked only on coupes. Working with the Targa posed a new challenge for the craftsmen at Theon Design, as the original body of the Porsche 911 (964) Carrera 2 Targa lacked sufficient rigidity by modern standards. The approaches used for strengthening the chassis of the coupe were not effective for the Targa, so original reinforcements were developed: they are attached in the bottom area, have complex geometry and structure (a combination of carbon fiber and Nomex honeycomb panels). Before their installation, the original body was completely disassembled and restored.
From the donor car in the restomod, essentially only the reinforced chassis framework remains, everything else is new, including elegant exterior mirrors and lighting. Most of the exterior body panels are made of carbon fiber, with only the doors remaining steel. The fully overhauled suspension features adjustable TracTive ACE shock absorbers, properly tuned specifically for this model.
The steering system has a new electric-hydraulic assist with carefully calibrated feedback. Powerful disc brakes are borrowed from the Porsche 911 RS generation 993. The 18-inch lightweight Fuchs alloy wheels are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. All electrical components are of aerospace grade. The stock air conditioning system is replaced with a modern, lighter, and more efficient one. The curb weight of Theon GBR003 Targa is 1228 kg (60 kg more than a similar coupe), with a weight distribution of 48:52 in favor of the rear axle.
The interior retains the analog aesthetics of the original model, but all elements here are new, including seats of Theon Design’s own design, upholstered in liquorice-colored leather. The rear seat cushions integrate powerful subwoofers from the Focal audio system, controlled by the Pioneer P99RS head unit, which has a very sleek design that fits well with the overall interior style of the classic Porsche 911. Strong carbon fiber structural components are hidden under the soft leather upholstery of the front panel, central tunnel, and sills. The removable fabric roof is redesigned, stored in a case in the trunk and does not take up much space.
Theon GBR003 Targa is powered by a comprehensively reworked 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six engine with air cooling, delivering a maximum output of 409 hp at 7100 rpm and 434 Nm at 5500 rpm. The custom sports exhaust system is equipped with bypass valves that are controlled manually or automatically when a set rev threshold is reached, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy the engine’s unfiltered roar on deserted road sections. The 6-speed manual gearbox from the Porsche 911 RS generation 993 transmits all power to the rear wheels.
Each copy of Theon GBR003 Targa is made according to the individual preferences of the customer in terms of decor and technology, with a minimum price of £415,000 excluding taxes and the cost of the donor car.
