Top Gear’s deep dive into the Gunther Werks F-26 reveals an audacious reengineering of the Porsche 993—one that pushes the boundaries of what an air-cooled flat-six can be. At its core lies a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged Mezger-derived engine, developed with Rothsport Racing, producing up to 1,067 horsepower on E85. That figure eclipses even the quad-turbo Bugatti Veyron, underscoring the extraordinary efficiency extracted from just six cylinders.
Engineering focus extends far beyond raw output. The F-26 employs a fully carbon-fiber body, magnesium wheels, and extensive chassis reinforcement, achieving a 250% increase in torsional rigidity over the original platform.
Strategic repositioning of the rear axle enhances weight distribution, while rose-jointed double wishbone suspension introduces race-grade precision. Cooling—critical for an air-cooled engine at this output—is managed through optimized airflow channels and advanced shrouding, preserving thermal stability under extreme load.
At Willow Springs International Raceway, the F-26’s performance proves emphatic. In a rolling drag race, it decisively outpaces the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, its immense torque and explosive boost delivery overwhelming even modern track-focused machinery. The result is not merely a restomod, but a visceral reinterpretation of Porsche’s turbocharged racing legacy.
Source: Top Gear
