REZVANI, the California-based car company famous for its modern sports cars and even more so for its range of armoured street-legal vehicles, has just launched a retro series of three models — all built on a modern 992 911 platform.
None feature armour plating, bullet-proof glass or pepper-spray jets. Instead, the sleek coupes are retro-themed Porsche 911s, available in a trio of performance upgrades.
Branded as Rezvani Retro RR1, and priced from $149,000 (AU$231,000) they can be ordered with power outputs of 550, 650 or 750 horsepower, which translates to 410, 485 and 560kW respectively.
All of them have a new carbon-fibre body that draws on the 935 Kremer racing coupes that dominated sports car racing, including Le Mans, from the 1970s.
And they certainly look very good.
The new lineup of models represent a fresh take on Rezvani’s signature style, incorporating vintage design elements with modern performance features and conveniences.
“What sets Rezvani Retro apart is its unique approach to blending the old with the new,” the company says.
“Drawing inspiration from the classic designs that made history, Rezvani Retro intends to create cars that hold a nostalgic charm.
“More than aesthetics, the retro-styled cars are built on modern platforms, ensuring they meet today’s creature comforts, performance and safety standards.
‘Thus, Rezvani Retro successfully merges the timeless allure of the past with the technological advancements of the present.”
Prominent features of the RR1s include rectangular headlights on the nose, rather than the iconic oval beams of 50 years ago and tail treatment that blend into a fixed rear wing.
The wheels are also of a spectacular turbofan design with different colour finishes for the various models.
For the muscle part, Rezvani buyers can choose between the 911 Carrera S, the GT3 or Turbo S.
The RR1 550 is the entry point, so named because the Carrera’s boosted 3.0-litre engine gets 550 hp for track use, or 520 hp on the street.
The RR1 565 is built from the GT3 and gets tweaks to its 4.0-litre flat-six for 535 hp on the street, or 565 at the track.
Next is the Rezvani Retro RR1 565.
It’s a variant that utilises the 992 GT3 and GT3 RS platforms with the engine and exhaust harmonised to unleash a whopping 565 HP, with the redline soaring up to a heart-pounding 9200 rpm.
“Trust us, it’s a sound you’ll never forget,” Rezvani says.
“Six-speed manual or PDK, the choice is yours.”
And then there’s the RR1 750 making a mighty 750 hp in track tune.
Street versions have 715 hp to put the power down through the Turbo’s standard all-wheel-drive system.
Optional upgrades for all versions include suspension, brakes, roll cages, racing harnesses and lightweight polycarbonate windows.
“You can now fine-tune your ride for the street or the track with our premium suspension options,” Rezvani says.
“For those who crave the adrenaline of the race track, we offer the top-tier Ohlins TTX-Pro coiler setup. And let’s not forget the heart-stopping roar of our free-flowing exhaust system.”
You can also opt for a custom retro livery for the exterior, but the options soon add up: $25,450 (AU$39,450) if you choose the lot.
Here’s the tricky bit: Each example is made to order – and you, the buyer, has to supply the car.
As well, Rezvani says that’s an introductory price which will increase after the first five orders are placed.
Production will be limited to 50 examples worldwide 50 units and conversions are already underway with deliveries planned later this year.
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