Finalists announced for 2026 Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge

ATLANTA. For months, Porsche-trained technicians across the United States have dedicated their expertise, creativity, and countless hours to preserving and restoring some of Porsche's most iconic vehicles. Whether carefully maintaining original condition, returning a classic Porsche to its former glory, or creating a one-of-a-kind expression through individualization, each project represents a deep commitment to craftsmanship and Porsche heritage.

Now, those efforts have led to a distinguished group of finalists. Following area competitions held throughout the summer and fall, Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA) has named the contenders who will advance to the sixth annual Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge National Championship to compete for top honors in three categories: Preservation, Restoration, and Individualization.

This year, sixty entries representing Porsche Centers across the United States competed in Preservation, Restoration, and Individualization, highlighting the enthusiasm for classic Porsche vehicles and the expertise required to maintain them.

The competition continues to unite enthusiasts, technicians and Porsche Classic specialists around a shared mission: keeping Porsche heritage alive for future generations.

"Making it to the finals is a real testament to the passion, skill, and teamwork behind each of these projects," said Jonathan Sieber, Senior Manager of Porsche Classic. "The quality of work this year has been exceptional. We’re excited to welcome these teams to the National Championship and celebrate the craftsmanship and dedication that keeps Porsche heritage thriving."

Area winners from each region move on to compete for national honors. The finalists will travel to Fayetteville, Georgia, from October 9-10 for the National Championship. Judging will take place at Trilith Studios, while the vehicles will be displayed during Luftgekühlt at Town at Trilith. Winners in Preservation, Restoration and Individualization, along with the Grand National Champion, will be announced during the Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge Awards Banquet.

The finalists are:

Area East:

Individualization: Porsche Englewood | 1980 911 Targa

Dubbed “The Gentleman’s Outlaw,” this 1980 Porsche 911 SC began as a bone-stock example before being transformed into a highly personalized interpretation of the classic air-cooled 911. The team at Englewood undertook a concours-level, nut-and-bolt restoration, carefully reengineering the car with a blend of craftsmanship, performance, and individuality. Finished in Oak Green Metallic, the project included extensive body refinements, a rebuilt transmission with a limited-slip differential, a thoroughly reworked 3.0-liter engine, and suspension and braking upgrades designed to enhance the driving experience. Inside and out, every detail was thoughtfully considered to create a Porsche that balances elegance with rebellion, resulting in a uniquely personal vision that honors the spirit of the original while delivering a distinctly driver-focused character.

Preservation: Porsche Mechanicsburg | 2003 911 Carrera 4S Coupe

For nearly two decades, this Dark Teal Metallic 2003 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S served as a true daily driver, carrying its owner through family milestones, Pennsylvania winters, and countless memorable journeys. When the time came to preserve the car that sparked a lifelong passion for Porsche, the team at Porsche Mechanicsburg undertook a comprehensive restoration that addressed everything from major mechanical repairs and factory maintenance to extensive cosmetic and interior refurbishment. Dry-ice blasting, paint correction, refinished wheels, restored carbon-fiber trim, and the installation of a Porsche Classic Communication Management system helped return the 996 to its original character while enhancing its long-term usability. The result is a meticulously restored Carrera 4S that preserves not only a vehicle, but also nearly two decades of Porsche memories.

Restoration: Porsche Beachwood | 1969 912 Targa Soft Window

Selected for its rarity, history, and deep connection to the local Porsche community, this 1969 Porsche 912 Soft Window Targa represents more than a restoration project. Originally delivered in Ohio and later owned by longtime Porsche enthusiast Bruce Schwartz, the car spent years in storage before the team at Porsche Beachwood undertook a comprehensive revival. From an extensive engine rebuild and cosmetic restoration to meticulous paint correction and detailing, every aspect of the project was completed with a focus on authenticity and craftsmanship. The restoration also supported a broader mission, helping raise tens of thousands of dollars for Alzheimer's disease research in honor of the vehicle's previous owner, making this 912 a celebration of both Porsche heritage and community impact.

Area South | Central:

Individualization: Porsche Orlando | 1997 Porsche 911 Carrera 2 (993)

What began as a well-loved Pastel Yellow 993 evolved into a deeply personal Sonderwunsch-inspired creation for longtime Porsche enthusiasts Byron and Carey. Guided by Carey's vision, the Porsche Orlando team stripped the car to its bare shell before reimagining it as a bespoke 993 RS interpretation, blending factory-correct details with individualized touches throughout. From the handcrafted interior to the high-revving 4.0-liter engine, incorporating components sourced from various Porsche platforms, the finished car demonstrates how personal expression and Porsche heritage can come together to create something truly unique.

Preservation: Porsche Cary | 2001 Porsche Boxster

For the team at Porsche Cary, preserving this 2001 Boxster meant giving a well-loved roadster a second chapter. The Guards Red Boxster underwent a comprehensive mechanical refresh, extensive interior restoration, convertible top refurbishment, and a complete brake system overhaul, all while maintaining its original character. Supported by colleagues across Sales, Parts, and Service, the project showcased the true spirit of preservation: restoring confidence, reliability, and enjoyment so this Porsche can continue creating memories for years to come.

Restoration: Harper Porsche | 1978 Porsche 930 Turbo

Finished in rare Paint to Sample Buick Medium Green Poly metallic over a distinctive white leather and pinstripe velour interior, this 1978 Porsche 930 Turbo is a true reflection of the bold spirit of the 1970s. After years of neglect under the Florida sun, the car required a complete restoration, from extensive rust repair and a bare-metal repaint to a comprehensive rebuild of the engine, transmission, and turbocharger. Guided by original factory specifications and a commitment to authenticity, the team at Harper Porsche returned this early Sonderwunsch commission to its original glory, preserving a uniquely specified Porsche that might otherwise have been lost to time.

Area West:

Individualization: Porsche Tucson | 1973 Porsche 914

For six years, Porsche Tucson Master Technician Jim Guthrie helped lead the dealership's Restoration Challenge entries, earning multiple regional recognitions along the way. This year, the team turned the spotlight on Jim himself, building a one-of-a-kind 1973 Porsche 914 inspired by his personal vision for the car. Starting with a gutted rolling chassis, the team transformed the 914 through extensive fabrication, restoration, and performance upgrades, creating a tribute to a technician whose nearly five decades of Porsche expertise have shaped both the dealership and the local Porsche community.

Preservation: Gaudin Porsche Las Vegas | 1996 Porsche 911 Turbo (993)

When this 1996 Porsche 911 Turbo arrived at Gaudin Porsche of Las Vegas, decades of aftermarket modifications had obscured the character that made the 993 Turbo one of Porsche's most celebrated performance cars. Rather than replace original components, the team focused on preservation, carefully reversing years of tuner-era changes and returning the car to its factory-correct configuration. With its original finishes protected, factory equipment restored, and authenticity verified through a Porsche Classic Technical Certificate, the completed restoration returns this iconic Turbo to like-new condition. Comprehensive road testing further confirmed its capabilities, ensuring it can be enjoyed as Porsche intended for generations to come.

Restoration: Porsche San Francisco | 2003 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S

Purchased as a retirement project and sidelined for years with a suspected engine issue, this 2003 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S was given a second chance by the team at Porsche San Francisco. What initially appeared to be a major mechanical failure ultimately became an opportunity to restore the car's performance, appearance, and drivability while showcasing the enduring appeal of the 996 generation. Completed by two first-year technicians under the guidance of veteran Porsche mentors, the project demonstrates how technical expertise and passion can transform a neglected sports car into a Porsche ready for its next chapter.

Fans can follow the finalists' journey to Trilith and get a behind-the-scenes look at the vehicles, technicians, and restoration stories by searching #porschechallenge26 on social media. Enthusiasts attending Luftgekühlt at Town at Trilith will have the opportunity to see the finalist vehicles in person and cast their vote for the People's Choice Award.

With more classic Porsche vehicles on U.S. roads than in any other market worldwide, the Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge showcases the expertise, passion, and craftsmanship that keep the brand's heritage alive for future generations.