Theon R Launches, Offering Pure Air-Cooled Driving Thrills

Introducing its most exhilarating Porsche 911 (964)-based creation, Theon Design has disclosed the R—a lightweight, high-performance marvel focused on delivering unparalleled driving engagement. Building on the successes of its earlier Coupe and Targa offerings, this flagship model raises the analog driving experience to a new standard.

Drawing inspiration from Porsche’s legacy of lightweight road cars, the R refines Theon Design’s approach by pushing the boundaries of the 964 platform. It represents the company’s relentless pursuit of the purest air-cooled Porsche experience through meticulous enhancements and refinements.

An aggressive weight-reduction strategy underpins the R’s engineering, achieved through the extensive use of Formula 1-grade carbon fiber for every body panel. Weighing less than 1000kg, the car houses a high-revving 4.0-liter flat-six engine that generates over 500 horsepower, paired with a six-speed manual transmission that powers the rear wheels.

Designed for fast roads and occasional track days, the R offers performance that rivals modern supercars. Its combination of lightweight engineering and power ensures a driving experience with a better power-to-weight ratio than even the 992 GT3 RS, maintaining an analog feel that emphasizes interaction with the road.

Carbon fiber lies at the heart of the R’s lightweight construction. Every body panel, including the doors, has been crafted with the expertise of an F1 composite supplier. Each component was modeled digitally to ensure precision, with the base 964 Carrera stripped down to bare metal and meticulously restored by skilled technicians over thousands of hours.

The car’s shell benefits from seam welding and innovative carbon tubs integrated into the chassis, providing exceptional torsional rigidity without unnecessary weight.

Collaborating with F1 specialists, Theon Design employs cutting-edge motorsport technology to bolster chassis strength, with each carbon tub weighing just 4kg. These enhancements uplifts the car’s structural integrity to match that of today’s high-performance Porsches.

Aerodynamics have been carefully refined, with a carbon fiber front splitter, rear diffuser, and ‘whale tail’ rear wing contributing to the R’s stability and handling. Underneath, an enclosed carbon flat floor further enhances airflow. Additional weight savings come from lightweight windows, minimal soundproofing, and magnesium-carbon fiber wheels inspired by the iconic 911 S/T design.

Performance braking is ensured by standard carbon-ceramic brakes, with the option to upgrade to a 993 RS setup. Customization extends to body colors, with the featured model finished in Signal Orange, accented by subtle dark ‘ghost’ PORSCHE stripes along the sills and engine lid.

At the core of the R is Theon Design’s most advanced 4.0-liter flat-six engine. With dual overhead cams and four valves per cylinder, it revs beyond 9,000 rpm, delivering over 500 horsepower and more than 400Nm of torque.

A drive-by-wire throttle ensures instant response, while the engine is fitted with a 997 GT3 RS 4.0 plenum and a lightweight Inconel exhaust, channeling a sound reminiscent of 1970s RSR race cars.

Mated to a six-speed manual transmission with a Wavetrac limited-slip differential, the R boasts a blistering power-to-weight ratio of over 500 bhp per ton. It can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just three seconds, with 100 mph arriving in 6.5 seconds, competing with supercars from McLaren and Ferrari.

Handling is taken to new heights with a Motion Control Suspension (MCS) system, developed with racing expertise. Featuring triple-adjustable dampers and external reservoirs, the suspension allows fine-tuning of gas pressure and damping forces. This setup enables precise handling on challenging roads or race tracks while offering flexibility for a more comfortable ride when needed.

With sharper steering than previous Theon models, the R excels on winding roads, from Alpine passes to California canyons. The adjustable suspension can also transform it into a capable track machine or a long-distance cruiser with a few tweaks.

Inside, the cabin reflects the car’s dual focus on performance and luxury. Composite materials dominate the interior, with single-piece seats and carbon fiber surfaces on display.

While the design prioritizes weight savings, the use of premium leather touchpoints ensures an upscale feel, blending stripped-back minimalism with high-end craftsmanship.

Starting at £790,000, each R model is a bespoke creation, developed in close collaboration with the buyer. Production is capped at just 24 units, with an 18-month build time per vehicle. Prices do not include the donor car, shipping, or applicable taxes, ensuring each model remains a rare and exclusive masterpiece.