In 2018, Singer Vehicle Design and Porsche announced a formal partnership that sent ripples through the automotive world. For years, Singer had been known for its meticulous, reimagined Porsche 911s—cars that blended classic aesthetics with modern performance. The collaboration with Porsche was a natural evolution, giving Singer access to OEM parts, engineering support, and official recognition. This article explores what the Singer–Porsche partnership entails, why it matters to enthusiasts, and how it influences the buying decision for those considering a Singer-built Porsche.
The Origins of Singer Vehicle Design
Singer Vehicle Design was founded by Rob Dickinson, a former British musician turned car enthusiast. The company started by offering restoration and modification services for air-cooled Porsche 911s, focusing on the 964 generation. Singer’s approach was to preserve the classic 911 silhouette while upgrading every component—engine, suspension, brakes, and interior—to modern standards. The result was a car that looked vintage but drove like a contemporary sports car. By the mid-2010s, Singer had built a reputation for exceptional quality, but the cars were expensive and limited in production. Owners often had to source parts from multiple suppliers, and there was no direct link to the factory.
The Partnership Announcement
In 2018, Porsche AG and Singer Vehicle Design announced a partnership aimed at providing Singer with direct access to Porsche’s parts supply and technical expertise. Under the agreement, Singer became an official Porsche partner, allowing them to purchase genuine parts and receive engineering support for their builds. This was a significant shift because it legitimized Singer’s work in the eyes of Porsche purists and opened up new possibilities for collaboration on drivetrain technology. The partnership also included plans for Singer to offer maintenance and support for cars built before the partnership, ensuring long-term ownership satisfaction.
What the Partnership Entails
The Singer–Porsche partnership has several practical implications:
- Access to OEM Parts: Singer can now source parts directly from Porsche, reducing lead times and ensuring authenticity. This is critical for cars that rely on numerous Porsche-sourced components, such as the engine management system, wiring harnesses, and suspension parts.
- Engineering Collaboration: Porsche engineers sometimes work with Singer to develop custom components, like the 4.0-liter air-cooled flat-six engine used in Singer’s DLS (Dynamics and Lightweighting Study) model. The DLS engine was co-developed with Williams Advanced Engineering but benefited from Porsche’s input on reliability and emissions compliance.
- Warranty and Support: Cars built under the partnership are eligible for support through Porsche’s dealer network for certain components. While not a factory warranty, this provides peace of mind for buyers concerned about maintenance.
- Increased Production Capacity: The partnership has allowed Singer to scale up production from a handful of cars per year to around 30–40 annually, though the waitlist remains long.
Models Built Under the Partnership
Since the partnership, Singer has produced several notable models. The most famous is the Singer DLS, which debuted at the 2018 Goodwood Festival of Speed. The DLS features a carbon-fiber body, a 500-hp naturally aspirated 4.0-liter engine, and a lightweight construction that slashes weight to under 2,400 pounds. Only 75 examples were built, and they sold out quickly at around $1.8 million each. Another model is the Singer Turbo, which reimagines the 911 Turbo from the 1970s and 1980s with a twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter engine producing 450 hp. Singer continues to offer restoration services for existing 964s, with the partnership ensuring that parts are available for customers who want to commission a one-off build.
How the Partnership Affects Buyers
For someone considering a Singer Porsche, the partnership brings both benefits and caveats.
Pros:
- Better Part Availability: Earlier Singer builds sometimes faced delays because parts had to be sourced from third-party suppliers. Now, the supply chain is more reliable.
- Resale Value: An official partnership with Porsche lends credibility, which can enhance resale value. Cars built after 2018 carry the cachet of factory involvement.
- Technical Innovation: Collaborating with Porsche allows Singer to implement cutting-edge technologies, like titanium valves and camshafts, without sacrificing reliability.
Cons:
- Higher Prices: The partnership has driven up costs. A new Singer build now starts at around $400,000 to $500,000 for a basic restoration, and the DLS models are over a million. This prices out many enthusiasts.
- Long Wait Times: Despite increased production, demand still outstrips supply. The waitlist for a custom Singer can stretch four to five years.
- Less Individuality: Some purists argue that the partnership dilutes Singer’s independent spirit. But most agree that the quality improvements offset any loss of uniqueness.
Practical Considerations for Buyers
If you are looking to buy a Singer Porsche, here are some practical steps:
- Decide on a Model: Determine whether you want a classic restoration (like a Singer 911 with a 3.6L or 4.0L engine) or a limited-edition model (DLS, Turbo). Each has different pricing, performance, and collectibility.
- Check the Build Date: Cars built before 2018 may have fewer genuine Porsche parts. If possible, prioritize post-partnership builds for better support and part availability.
- Inspect the Service History: Singer provides a book documenting every component. The partnership means that Porsche-approved shops can service many parts, but specialized work still requires Singer’s own facility in California.
- Consider Insurance and Storage: Singer Porsches are often valued at over $1 million, so specialized collector car insurance is a must. Proper climate-controlled storage is also recommended.
Common Questions About the Partnership
Is Singer now owned by Porsche? No. Singer remains an independent company. The partnership is a strategic alliance, not an acquisition. Porsche does not own any stake in Singer.
Can I buy a Singer from a Porsche dealer? Not directly. Singer sells its cars through its own sales channels, though authorized Porsche dealers may facilitate service and parts for existing Singer owners.
Does the partnership affect the performance of Singer cars? Yes, positively. The engineering collaboration means Singer cars meet stricter emissions standards and have improved reliability compared to pre-partnership builds.
Final Recommendation
The Singer–Porsche partnership is a win for enthusiasts who value authenticity and engineering excellence. If you are in the market for a reimagined air-cooled 911 and have the budget, a Singer built after 2018 is the best choice because it combines the craftsmanship of Singer with the backing of the factory. However, be prepared for a long wait and a significant financial commitment. For those who cannot justify the cost, alternatives like Gunther Werks or RWB offer similar restorations at lower entry points. But for the ultimate blend of classic looks and modern performance, a Singer is hard to beat, and the partnership only strengthens its appeal.