Singer just built a modern-day Porsche 911 Safari

Mention the word Singer to anyone, and most will likely think of a simple, yet robust sewing machine. But if you're talking to a car nut, that name is one of the most revered tuners of air-cooled Porsche 911s.

To open up 2021 with a bang, the California-based shop just revealed what could be its coolest build to date. This is the All-Terrain Competition Study (ATC), and it looks like it's ready to take on the grueling Dakar Rally. Borrowing inspiration from the Dakar-winning 953 and 959 rally cars, the ATC is Singer's reimagination of a cross-country Porsche 911.

Built at the request of a long-term client that plans to take it racing in the future, Singer got help from rally specialist Richard Tuthill to modify the air-cooled 911 to compete in off-road racing.

Unlike typical 911s, this particular 964 gets a beefed-up long-travel suspension, 5-way adjustable dampers, and increased ride height. The chassis has been upgraded for heavy-duty use and complemented with carbon fiber body panels. It also comes with 16-inch forged aluminum wheels, BF Goodrich all-terrain tires, and 4-piston disc brakes all around.

Under the hood, the ATC uses a 3.6-liter twin-turbo flat-six rated at 450 PS and 569 Nm of torque. Power is then sent to a permanent all-wheel-drive system via a five-speed sequential dog-box transmission. Singer even put front, center, and rear mechanical limited-slip differentials for extra traction.

To keep the ATC safe and mobile while rallying, Singer installed an FIA-approved roll cage, long-range fuel tank, two full-size spare race wheels stowed in the front and rear trunks, and bespoke FIA competition seats. There's also a rehydration system for the driver and navigator inside, along with a GPS navigation system.

“This collaboration brings together the best of innovation, cutting-edge technology, and decades of real rallying experience into one, amazingly capable, all-terrain off-road racing vehicle. In the 1980s we partnered with Prodrive to prepare bodyshells for the Rothmans 911 SC/RS that was part of the inspiration for ACS. I am delighted to have now partnered with Rob and the team at Singer to bring this incredible machine to life and look forward to working with them in the future. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved,” said Richard Tuthill.

Thinking of making your own 911 Safari build? According to Singer, the client who commissioned the ATC has agreed to make it available to others who wish to make their rally-spec 911. This means those who wish to modify their own air-cooled 964 can take it to Singer and let them do their magic.

How much will it cost? The Singer has yet to state the modification costs, but expect to pay a pretty penny if you are interested.