The Paris-Dakar Rally has long been synonymous with adventure, pushing both man and machine to their limits across unforgiving deserts and treacherous landscapes. Among the many legendary vehicles to have conquered this grueling challenge, one name stands out in its rarity and boldness: the Porsche 911. Inspired by the victorious Porsche 953 of 1984, Italian enthusiast Agostino Rizzardi has resurrected the spirit of that golden era with his custom-built Porsche 911 4×4 Rally Raid. A fusion of classic sports car elegance and rugged off-road capability, this machine proves that the Porsche legacy is not confined to asphalt—it thrives in the wild. Reviving the Paris-Dakar spirit with this article of the Porsche 911 4×4 rally raid.
Porsche 911 4×4 Rally Raid: A Paris-Dakar Legend Reborn
In the world of rally raid competitions, certain vehicles stand out not only for their performance but also for the rich history they evoke. One such vehicle is the Porsche 911 4×4 Rally Raid, which brings to mind the legendary Paris-Dakar rallies of the 1980s. At the 2021 Fenix Rally, this remarkable car, driven by Italian enthusiast Agostino Rizzardi, captured attention and clinched second place in the Car Open category.
A Passion for Porsche and Off-Roading
Agostino Rizzardi’s affinity for Porsche is well-documented. Having participated in various asphalt races with models like the Porsche 933 Supercup and the Porsche 964 Group B, Rizzardi has frequently graced the podium in hill climb events with his GT-class vehicles. However, his passion wasn’t confined to tarmac. Inspired by the iconic Porsche 959 Paris-Dakar, Rizzardi aspired to experience the thrill of driving a Porsche in rally raid settings, navigating through deserts, dunes, and challenging terrains. This ambition led him to reintroduce a Porsche to the desert landscape.
The Making of the Desert-Ready Porsche 911
To realize his vision, Rizzardi chose the Porsche 964 Carrera 4 as the foundation for his rally raid vehicle. The 964 series, produced from 1989, was equipped with all-wheel drive, making it a suitable candidate for off-road modifications. The transformation involved several technical enhancements to ensure optimal performance in demanding environments.
Technical Specifications
- Engine: The car is powered by a classic 3.6-liter engine with a Microtec ECU, delivering 300 horsepower and 42 mkg of torque.
- Transmission: The original gearbox was retained, but gear ratios and bevel gear pairs were modified to achieve shorter gearing, acknowledging that desert racing seldom requires speeds exceeding 200 km/h. This 911 achieved a top speed of 190 km/h.
- Differentials: Originally hydraulic, both front and rear differential locks were converted to mechanical systems for enhanced reliability. Adjustments can be made to the front-to-rear torque distribution and the rear locking percentage.
- Suspension and Chassis: Extensive work was undertaken on the axles and suspension, resulting in over 25 cm of wheel travel for each wheel. Control arms were reinforced, and each wheel is equipped with dual shock absorbers. The track width was expanded to 2 meters, while the wheelbase remained standard at 2.30 meters. The chassis received reinforcements at both the front and rear.
- Body and Weight: To reduce weight, original body panels were replaced with components made from carbon fiber and Kevlar, including the doors, roof, and select panels. Consequently, the vehicle’s weight was brought down to a commendable 1,500 kg.
- Wheels and Tires: The 911 is fitted with 16-inch Evo Corse alloy wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich All Terrain 245/80R16 tires, providing the necessary grip for off-road conditions.
- Interior Modifications: While the exterior underwent significant changes, efforts were made to preserve the original Porsche interior and instrumentation. However, essential rally raid equipment was incorporated, including bucket seats, a pilot/co-pilot communication system, a trip master, and controls for the differentials.
A Nod to Dakar Heritage
The Porsche 911 4×4 Rally Raid’s design and performance pay homage to the brand’s illustrious history in rally racing. Notably, in 1984, the Porsche 953—a heavily modified 911 variant—secured victory at the Paris-Dakar Rally. This triumph showcased the 911’s adaptability and prowess in off-road racing.
Rizzardi’s modern adaptation continues this legacy, blending classic design with contemporary engineering to tackle the rigors of rally raid competitions. In summary, the Porsche 911 4×4 Rally Raid exemplifies the fusion of historical inspiration and modern innovation. Through meticulous modifications and a deep-seated passion for both the brand and off-road racing, Agostino Rizzardi has revived the spirit of the Paris-Dakar era, allowing a new generation to witness the enduring legacy of the Porsche 911 in rally raid events.
