Is the Porsche Singer’s Audacious Move a Game Changer?

Hold on to your driving gloves, Singer’s latest creation is ready to rock the automotive world with a turbocharged twist and an audacious wing. Take a moment, let that sink in. I’m sure you’ve already had a look, but go on, treat yourself to another one. That rear arch – isn’t it gloriously wild? It’s a view that demands a double-take and an appreciative whistle. Rest assured, it’s as eye-popping as it seems.

Flashback a few months, and I was lucky enough to lay eyes on a clay model of this beast. It was like receiving a visual jab from a prizefighter – in the best way possible. The stance, the width, those muscular haunches, and of course, that rear wing.

Now, let’s delve into the specifics. This masterpiece is the Dynamics and Lightweighting Study – Turbo, a fusion of Singer’s previous aces – the DLS and last year’s Turbo Study. Essentially, it’s a turbocharged DLS. But don’t be deceived; it’s not just a case of bolting on a pair of turbochargers to the 4.0-litre flat six and sending it on its merry way. In fact, this one boasts a 3.8-litre engine.

The inspiration behind this marvel is evident: the 1970s Le Mans scene, to be precise. Think Type 934/5, the fierce IMSA racer that owned the Group 4 circuit in ’77, triumphing in six out of eight races. “I adore that car, but the front needed a bolder punch,” admits Rob Dickinson, Singer’s visionary founder. “This made it look anaemic. The front of the car had to match the muscular rear and stand out.”

Speaking of standing out, the Loop spoiler – a marvel of engineering – might not be everyone’s cup of tea in some countries. If that’s the case, there’s a sleek ducktail alternative. Plus, the front end varies based on your preference – it’s all about that perfect visual equilibrium. You’re not stuck with one choice; you can go for both. “Certain enthusiasts crave a track-oriented, more aggressive ambiance for their restoration project, opting for the imposing front bumper and an expansive rear wing. Others lean towards a road-focused style, embracing the ducktail,” Dickinson explains. And for those craving ultimate freedom, why not have both options, complete with flight cases?

In terms of technical – extra downforce is the name of the game here, though not the insane, track-obsessed kind. Mazen Fawaz, the brains behind Singer, asserts that while the DLS aimed for equilibrium and intimacy, the DLS-T channels the raw, old-school sports car feel – think Ferrari F40. It’s about harnessing that high-boost, manual prowess without requiring the skills of a pro racer.

At its core, the DLS-T houses a heart-pounding 700bhp twin-turbo flat six engine that revs up to a thrilling 9,000rpm. A radical departure from the DLS, this engine incorporates water-cooled cylinder heads, and the cooling fan adopts a vertical stance to draw air from the rear window intakes. Say goodbye to the mechanically-driven fan – it’s now electric.

Airflow is a symphony of physics here. The DLS-T’s turbochargers create an impressive suction effect, allowing air to be drawn from the deck lid. Fawaz quips, “It’s like a vacuum cleaner! This concept liberates the rear window intakes.” Also, say hello to side-exit exhausts, a nod to the TVR Sagaris.

A new six-speed manual gearbox steps up to manage the torque with finesse. Currently under development with Ricardo, it promises an exposed linkage and a tactile experience akin to the original G50 box. Naturally, the DLS-T channels power exclusively to the rear wheels. Imagine if it went all-wheel-drive – it would lose that unruly charm. Front suspension wisdom from the DLS is retained – though Mazen Fawaz points out, “it’s technically an upper wishbone with a lower multi-link setup.” Tuned for the track, bespoke remote adjustment dampers are on offer.

Singer’s knack for timing is on point – the DLS suspension development coincided with Porsche’s integration of double wishbones in the GT3. Fast forward, and both the latest 911 GT3 RS and the DLS-T had to sacrifice their front boot for extra cooling needs.

Pack your bags smartly – the DLS-T’s luggage allowance is in-car only. Carbon ceramic brakes, wrapped in forged magnesium centrelock wheels, command attention. If that doesn’t excite you enough, BBS deep dish rims are a sight to behold. A perfect pair: 19-inch fronts and 20-inch rears, sporting Michelin 345/30 tyres – pick between Cup 2s or Cup 2Rs.

True to tradition, the turbocharged beauties will undergo a rejuvenation at Singer’s UK factory in Oxfordshire. With over 500 global employees (double the workforce from a year ago), including a crew of 350 at the Los Angeles assembly centre, the Singer legacy thrives.

The waitlist for Singer’s lovingly restored Porsche 911s stretches all the way to 2027’s end. Having breathed life into 75 964-generation 911s as DLSes, they’re upping the ante with 99 DLS Turbos. Price? The suspense lingers, but considering the DLS’s £2 million+ tag, the DLS-T is poised to dance in the same high-stakes arena. But frankly, none of that matters. Singer aficionados clamour for their creations, and the DLS-T promises to stoke unprecedented enthusiasm. Singer’s canvas has been painted with precision till now, but the DLS-T adds a whole new splash of audaciousness. Brace yourself – the wing is coming, and it’s here to make heads turn and hearts race.