- Kalmar revealed a 993-based 7-97 Turbo with 650 hp and AWD.
- Only 11 examples of the high-powered restomod will be made.
- Carbon fiber keeps the weight down to just 2,645 pounds.
About a year after first introducing the 993-based 7-97, Kalmar has followed up with something even more special. The new Turbo Edition pushes the restomod formula further, adding serious performance and a tightly limited production run that pays tribute to the infamous 930-generation Porsche 911 Turbo.
As the name suggests, it brings turbocharged power to the package and will be offered in both Coupe and Cabriolet forms, capped at just 11 units globally.
Read: Kalmar’s Porsche 7-97 Is 2,645 Pounds And 411 HP Of Pure 993 Bliss
For those who prioritize mechanical purity, the original Kalmar 7-97 was already compelling. It featured a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six delivering 411 hp and 310 lb-ft (420 Nm) of torque, offering a raw, analog connection to the road.
From Air-Cooled Charm to Turbocharged Might
In the Turbo Edition, that engine has been replaced by a 3.2-liter turbocharged flat-six producing a staggering 650 hp and 494 lb-ft (670 Nm) of torque. Those are figures that line it up directly with the 992-generation 911 Turbo S, putting Kalmar’s restomod in some very serious company.
To support that kind of output, the engine has been comprehensively upgraded with new pistons, reinforced cylinder walls, copper-beryllium head gaskets, and fresh valve seats
Power is sent to all four wheels, and the car has been fitted with a modern traction control system, ensuring that it’s not too crazy to drive. Oh, and it also has an all-important third pedal and a stick shift, no doubt making it an absolute ball to drive.
Chassis & Body Changes
In addition to developing a custom engine for the car, Kalmar has strengthened the chassis and made several parts, including the roof and doors, from lightweight carbon fiber. It also has mighty carbon ceramic brakes at all four corners, sits in 18-inch magnesium center-lock wheels, and is fitted with adaptive dampers from TracTive.
That setup feels worlds apart from the original 930 Turbo, which earned the nickname “widowmaker” thanks to its snappy boost and rear-heavy balance. That car had a reputation for catching drivers off guard, especially mid-corner.
Kalmar’s take on turbocharging is more composed. With modern electronics and suspension systems, the Turbo Edition is designed to deliver all that power without the drama, unless you’re asking for it.
Retro Modern Looks
Unlike some other restomods, Kalmar has decided against making any overly dramatic changes to the car’s design, instead refining it and making it look even better.
There’s a new whale tail spoiler at the rear, while the front draws from several vintage 911s of the era and integrates grille styling reminiscent of the 1967 Porsche 911R. Thanks to carbon fiber construction, weight remains low at just 2,645 lbs (1,200 kg).
Tailored Touches Inside
Similar updates extend into the interior, where the Turbo Edition mirrors the standard 7-97 but adds its own custom flourishes. This example features Recaro Sportster CS seats trimmed in leather, finished in a deep brown shade that suits the car’s character.
As expected, buyers of one of the 11 examples will be able to specify their own interior appointments, tailoring the build to their taste.
