Who wants to install a flat-eight in their Porsche?
This page is translated from the original post "Qui veut mettre un Flat 8 dans sa Porsche ?" in French.
- 12/10/2025 13:28
In the United States, a small workshop in Minnesota is shaking up the world of classic Porsche enthusiasts with a crazy idea.
This is an air-cooled Flat-8 engine capable of replacing the six-cylinder engine of the Porsche 964. Runge Cars, led by Christopher Runge, is already known for its handcrafted aluminum bodies inspired by vintage Porsches. Their next model, the R3, promises to push this boldness even further.
At the heart of this project is the Hetzer engine, a 5.3-liter Flat-8, comparable to the displacement of a basic Chevy Silverado V8. True to the DNA of classic Porsche engines, it is air-cooled, equipped with dual overhead camshafts and oversquare pistons, with a maximum rev limit of 9,000 rpm and an electronic limit of 10,000 rpm. The goal? To deliver a unique sound, high-revving performance, and an unparalleled driving experience that only air-cooled engines can provide.
An Alternative Take on Restomod
Runge is not working alone. Swindon Powertrain, a specialist in custom powertrains, and Sol Snyderman, an expert in air-cooled Porsche engines, contributed to the design. This collaboration has already led to four-valve-per-cylinder cylinder heads for M64 engines capable of reaching 12,000 rpm, hinting at spectacular performance possibilities for the Hetzer.
Another attractive point: this engine is not exclusive to the R3. After the first three units, it will be available for swaps into Porsche 964s, allowing enthusiasts to transform their classic 911 into an unprecedented mechanical beast. Prices remain confidential, but in the restomod market, collector enthusiasm for rare and artisanal parts suggests astronomical figures.
As for the R3, its images show a decidedly modern design, inspired by Group C prototypes: low nose, flat sides, integrated spoiler, butterfly doors, and a cockpit centered on the driver. Weighing only 780 kg and powered by a Flat-8 at its core, there’s no doubt that the R3 will be a true tour de force.
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For Porsche enthusiasts and mechanical purists: who will dare to install this Flat-8 in their 964? Runge Cars will open orders before the end of the year.
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