FYI: The two-year journey of revitalizing a classic Porsche 911 is a testament to patience and precision, with the project culminating in significant performance upgrades.
Patience isn’t merely about the ability to wait but how one approaches that waiting time. Over two long years since its last update, my vintage Porsche 911, a 31-year-old relic dubbed Project 964, has undergone more than its share of challenges. From water ingress issues that required gutting the interior to multiple mechanical failures such as malfunctioning speedometers, oil cooler fans, rear lights, indicators, and even power steering, the journey has been far from smooth. However, it’s been a journey marked by determination and strategic planning.
Upon discovering these compounding issues, my decision was made—I transported the car to a reliable shop in Tokyo, demanding not speed but quality repairs to ensure the 964 returns to the road in fine form. This hiatus was not just for the car; it allowed me a necessary respite, and as hoped, my enthusiasm for the project rekindled.
## Reuniting with the Classic
Months passed, and the reunion with my trusty 964 finally took place in the scenic streets of Kyoto, where the summer heat resonated with nostalgia and excitement. Now, with the 964 more functional but still without air conditioning, I targeted my next goal—to elevate its handling and grip.
### Upgrading the Ride
The meticulous staff at Hashimoto Corporation facilitated my handling enhancements by sourcing a KW Variant 3 coilover kit, and Yokohama Japan replaced the ancient, cracked tires with new Yokohama Advan rubber. With a heritage spanning over a century, Hashimoto Corporation has been instrumental in importing foreign car brands into Japan and supports us with world-class automotive components including KW, BBS, Brembo, and others.
Walking into their impressive Kyoto facility, one can’t miss the attention to detail and selection of demo cars, like the impeccably outfitted Toyota Vellfire with top-tier accessories.
### Elevating Performance
Project 964 has mostly retained its original charm, save for a signature Speed Yellow respray. However, old suspensions require modernization. This journey began with addressing the coilover setup, an evolution from older models, offering enhanced control and steering precision. At the rear, newer semi-trailing arms helped diminish certain handling quirks, setting a new standard for the car’s balance and responsiveness.
Next up was setting fresh grips; the modern rubber from Yokohama—the AD09s—replaced the hard, worn-out Michelins, promising significantly improved traction.
### The Transformation
The transformation hadn’t completed at the tires. With all new coilovers in place courtesy of KW’s engineering, each damper was perfectly calibrated for balance and finesse. These enhancements brought not only performance improvements but maintained an everyday comfort that I valued.
On subsequent test drives through Kygyo’s scenic routes, the differences were immediately felt. Baseline improvements like precise steering and enhanced cornering were readily evident, while more aggressive maneuvers showcased the newfound stability and control.
### Future Endeavors
The journey with the 964 doesn’t stop here. While current upgrades focus on making each ride thrilling, future plans may include exploring brake advancements or even reinvigorating the engine. Yet, with each upgrade, I’m reminded why I embarked on this restoration journey—patience may have been tested, but the triumph of reviving such a classic vehicle is deeply rewarding.
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Donald Smith
Editor, Automotive.fyi
