A Collector’s Dream: The Alluring Appeal Of This Custom Safari 911
Far more durable and valuable, this Porsche is the ultimate 911 for off-road thrill-seekers.
While a factory 1986 Porsche 911 Carrera prepped for a Concours d’Elegance may struggle to break six figures at auction, this modified example from Bring a Trailer recently sold for $210,000, proving that Safari-style 911 modifications are in high demand. This particular model has been expertly upgraded, making it a standout among Porsche enthusiasts, as evidenced by the high price tag it fetched.
The Safari 911 modification culture began in the 1960s, when rally drivers secured victories thanks to the 911’s rearward weight distribution and drift-friendly power. From 1966 to 1968, 911s won several European Rally Championships, and the Porsche 911’s off-road capabilities continued to evolve over the years.
Countless wins followed, especially at the East African Safari Classic Rally, which became part of the World Rally Championship and was later relaunched in 2003 as a brutal endurance race for pre-1986, two-wheel-drive, naturally aspirated cars. Off-road 911s have won the Safari Classic multiple times, including a recent victory in 2023, solidifying the "Safari 911" name in Porsche history.
In the U.S., the Safari 911 trend has gained popularity, driven by its rich history and rugged, almost post-apocalyptic aesthetic. This particular build, completed by Porsche Beaverton for the 2023 Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge, features a black body, wood-slat roof basket, rally lights from TRE Motorsports, custom front bumper, front skid plate, and an eye-catching whale-tail rear spoiler.
The 911 is equipped with black 16-inch Fuchs alloy wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A K02 tires and features a suspension from Elephant Racing, known for their expertise in Safari 911 builds. The vehicle’s 3.2-liter M930/21 flat-six engine was rebuilt, and the five-speed manual transmission received a full overhaul, including new synchromesh gears, a new clutch, and shifter linkage.
Inside, the focus is on performance rather than luxury, with black leather and houndstooth fabric upholstery. A Porsche Classic Communication Management head unit with navigation pairs with the Porsche-branded MOMO steering wheel. With this combination of upgrades, it’s clear that this Safari 911 and its driver are ready for many thrilling off-road adventures.
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