A remarkable 1986 Porsche 911 Carrera coupe Safari build, recently sold on Bring A Trailer, exemplifies Porsche’s enduring legacy of adventure-oriented engineering. Transformed by Porsche Beaverton as part of the 2023 Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge, this unique build merges rugged off-road capability with the timeless charm of the 911. Inspired by Porsche’s history in grueling rally events like the East African Safari Rally of the 1970s, this creation reflects a harmonious blend of off-road prowess and meticulous craftsmanship. Key upgrades include a suspension lift with Elephant Racing components, BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A K02 tires, a front skid plate, custom rally lighting, and a wood-slat roof basket. Finished in a striking black repaint and reupholstered in black leather with houndstooth cloth, the car exudes a bold yet classic aesthetic.
Safari builds have been a celebrated part of Porsche’s heritage, dating back to their success with the 953 and 959 rally cars that dominated off-road racing. These adaptations showcased the inherent versatility of the 911 platform, proving it could excel far beyond smooth pavement. This modern interpretation keeps that spirit alive, seamlessly integrating contemporary touches such as Porsche Classic infotainment with navigation and a MOMO steering wheel, while staying true to its rally roots with features like RSR sway bars and a Dansk sport muffler.
Under the hood, the 3.2-liter flat-six engine produces 207 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Type 915 five-speed manual transaxle rebuilt for optimal performance. The car’s lifted suspension, reinforced drivetrain, and rally-ready components make it as capable on trails as it is stylish. With its whale-tail spoiler and forward-mounted rally lights, this Safari 911 captures the rugged essence of Porsche’s rallying past while standing out as a bespoke modern classic ready for any terrain.
What a standout sale for a resto Safari build coming from Porsche Beaverton. Typically, resto-builds and resto-mods flood the media scene, celebrated for their craftsmanship and modernized takes on classic icons; and a Safari build like this deserves just as much attention, showcasing not only engineering ingenuity but also a refreshing twist on the 911’s celebrated versatility. Both rugged and stylish, this 1986 Carrera echoes Porsche’s duality perfectly—ready to conquer trails yet refined enough to turn heads in any setting. The tasteful black exterior finish, modest yet striking, pairs beautifully with the bespoke houndstooth and leather interior, elevating this build into a class of its own. As it ships off to its new owner, one can hope they drive it like it’s meant to be.
