Upgraded version of Porsche-Tag F1 powerplant can rev to 10,250rpm
Reworked internals bring big power boost for exotic F1-powered 911 Turbo
Petersfield-based engineering firm Lanzante has announced it will unveil an upgraded version of its Formula 1-engined Porsche 911, dubbed the Tag Championship, at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
Based on the 930-generation 911 Turbo, it swaps the car’s original flat six for the Porsche-developed and Tag-branded powerplant that drove McLaren’s F1 cars to three consecutive championship wins between 1984 and 1986.
The 1.5-litre twin-turbo V6 has been upgraded by Cosworth for use on the road, with changes including revised internals – including new pistons, conrods and valves – improved cooling and lighter titanium turbochargers.
The tweaks mean the engine now puts out 625bhp, up from 503bhp previously, and is capable of revving to 10,250rpm.
It is linked to a reworked version of the six-speed gearbox from the later 993 911, with a bespoke set of gear ratios that are claimed to allow for a top speed of 200mph.
As well as the exotic engine, the Tag Championship 911 receives a chassis overhaul which sees many of its body panels replaced with “Formula 1-grade” carbonfibre.
Its interior has been stripped of almost all its fripperies, including the electric mirrors and windows, and a rollcage has been fitted to boost rigidity and crash protection.
Recaro bucket seats replace the leather thrones originally fitted to the 911 and a Personal steering wheel – similar to that used in McLaren’s MP4/2 racer – completes the package.
The result of these changes is a weight saving of more than 400kg, with the Tag car tipping the scales at just 920kg (dry).
The car rides on a set of 18in Dymag alloy wheels, said to mirror the design of those fitted to the MP4/2. They are shod with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 rubber measuring 235mm wide up front and 275mm wide at the rear.
Just three Tag Championship 911s will be built, referencing the MP4/2’s three titles. The first will wear a livery referencing Alain Prost’s 1985 helmet design.
