Key Takeaways:
– Kalmar Automotive’s 9X9 combines design aspects of Porsche 959 hypercar and Porsche 935 racer.
– The restomod is available in three styles, including a version with the naturally aspirated engine from the GT3.
– It aims to offer three diverse driving experiences for different buyers
– Production is limited to just 27 units, each costing upwards of $2 million.
A Nod to Porsche Heritage
Beloved for retrofitting the classic Porsche 911 with electric drivetrains, Kalmar Automotive also has a soft spot for petrol engines. The brand’s 9X9 and 7-97 C1 are cases in point. Our focus today is the former – the 9X9. This restomod wedding Porsche 959 hypercar’s sophistication with Porsche 935 racer’s athleticism, aims to offer performance as impressive as its visuals.
Test Drive Glitches
Sadly, a recently released video doesn’t give a complete picture of the Kalmar’s run at the Nürburgring. Although the test vehicle isn’t pushed to its max potential, the exhaust note comes alive. The 9X9 comes in three variants, one of which features a GT3’s naturally aspirated engine. The most extreme model claims a Nürburgring lap time of 7 minutes – comparable to the Rimac Nevera hypercar. However, Kalmar’s ambitious lap time claim stays on paper for now, with the actual test still in the future.
Mechanical Hitches on the Track
Spy shots reveal a hiccup in track testing. The prototype was seen halted at Nordschleife due to some mechanical issue, although the specifics remain unclear. With advanced features like bespoke double-wishbone suspension and active engine mounts, the cause could be anything. Nevertheless, a fuel shortage – improbable, but not impossible – could also explain the halt.
A Car for Every Driver
The 9X9 is crafted to cater to diverse clienteles. The standard 9X9 is essentially a grand tourer boasting over 900 horsepower, modifying the 911 Turbo’s 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged engine for extraordinary performance. The 9X9 Sport, with its 3.0-liter turbo flat-six, offers around 30% less power than the top-of-the-range model, ensuring more manageability. On the other hand, the 9X9 Leichtbau aims to provide an immersive driving experience, using the soon-to-be-retired 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six from a GT3.
Whichever version you choose, be prepared to spend north of $2 million. But rest assured, any issues will likely be addressed before these 27 exquisite beauties begin their journey to customers’ driveways.
Despite a few hiccups, the Kalmar 9X9 is a noteworthy addition to the burgeoning restomod sphere, set to incite the fancy of luxury car enthusiasts. With robust Porsche-flavored driving dynamics and a visually appealing design, it could well be a game-changer in the supercar landscape. Only time will tell whether this restomod can truly take the Nürburgring by storm and give its hypercar counterparts a run for their money.