FYI: Kalmar Automotive unveils the revolutionary 9X9 at Monterey Car Week, setting a new standard in "retro hypercars" by blending advanced technology with classic inspiration.
Kalmar 9X9: Pioneering a New Era in Automotive Design
Kalmar Automotive, an emerging name in luxury sports cars, introduced its cutting-edge creation, the 9X9, at Monterey Car Week. This spectacular vehicle redefines modern car design by combining futuristic technology with an admiration for vintage aesthetics. Dubbed "the world’s first retro hypercar," the 9X9 is sure to attract automobile aficionados and collectors alike.
The Brain Behind the Machine: Jan Kalmar
Speaking with Jan Kalmar, the visionary behind Kalmar Automotive, it became evident that the 9X9 is not just another sports car but a homage to automotive history. "While performance benchmarks align with contemporary hypercars, the inspiration bows to timeless classics," Kalmar explained. The company’s focus on being a pioneering coachbuilder is vividly illustrated in its homage to the Porsche 959, striking a balance between innovation and nostalgia.
High-Tech Meets Heritage
The foundation of the 9X9 is a Porsche 993 chassis, dramatically modified to integrate state-of-the-art technology. The safety framework doubles as a roll cage, seamlessly connecting all suspension components, while elements like the engine, gearbox, and steering rack are adapted from the modern Porsche 992. The car, therefore, is as contemporary as it is respectful of its roots, layering advanced tech over a nostalgic base.
Precision Braking and Performance Excellence
One standout feature of the 9X9 is its bespoke braking system. In collaboration with CarboBrake, the car employs 3D-printed titanium calipers, merging cutting-edge technology with superior safety. These precision-engineered brakes are not only light but offer remarkable stopping power, critical for the car’s robust 930-horsepower, turbocharged 3.8-liter engine.
Variety: Three Distinct Models
The Kalmar 9X9 comes in three exhilarating variants:
- 9X9: Optimized for unparalleled on-road power, this model boasts a dual-clutch transmission and an advanced all-wheel-drive system, delivering a GT-like driving experience.
- 9X9 Sport: Featuring a refined 3.0-liter turbo engine with 650 horsepower, a 7-speed manual transmission, and dynamic all-wheel-drive, the Sport model is built for the driving purist seeking even higher responsiveness.
- 9X9 Leichtbau: The ultimate track experience, this version weighs only 2,755 pounds. With a high-revving 4.0-liter engine and rear-wheel drive, it offers pure driving pleasure, sacrificing comfort for raw performance.
Exclusivity Comes with a Price
Aspiring owners should note that acquiring a Kalmar 9X9 requires a substantial investment. Starting at $2.2 million, each custom-built model demands a 992 donor car. Ordering now means receiving your spectacular machine in about a year.
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By Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
