Singer's foundational programme — a 964-based 911 'reimagined' to bespoke client specification.
Singer Vehicle Design, founded in 2009 in Los Angeles by Rob Dickinson, restores and re-engineers customer-supplied Porsche 964 chassis to a bespoke specification. What Singer calls the 'Classic Study' is the foundational programme: an air-cooled flat-six (typically 3.6 to 4.0 litres, prepared by Ed Pink Racing Engines or Cosworth on later cars), carbon-fibre bodywork shaped to evoke the long-hood early 911s, and an interior trimmed to client direction.
No two cars are alike — each commission begins with a customer 964, runs through a detailed specification process, and is delivered after typically 18–24 months in build. Prices reflect that bespoke process, with later cars regularly invoiced well into seven figures inclusive of donor.
Defined the modern 'restomod' category; Singer is widely seen as the benchmark for bespoke air-cooled 911 commissions.
| Variant | Years | Production | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Study coupe | 2009–present | — | Standard long-hood-inspired bodywork. |
| Classic Study targa | 2010s–present | — | Targa-roof variant. |
Start with identity, paperwork and originality. For the Singer Classic Study, the strongest cars have continuous ownership history, matching numbers where applicable, original books and tools, factory build documentation and evidence of work by manufacturer-approved specialists. Original specification documentation, Singer service history, low ownership chain.
Engines are bespoke and require their original builder for major service; routine maintenance is conventional air-cooled 911. A proper pre-purchase inspection includes cold-start behaviour, ECU diagnostics and fault-code history (where applicable), leak-down or compression testing, underbody photography, suspension and chassis inspection, brake condition and a long enough road test to expose heat-related faults. Deferred maintenance on a car of this class is almost always more expensive than buying a better-sorted example.
Use a paint-depth gauge, lift access and a specialist familiar with the model's factory panel gaps and finish standards. Collector value is dramatically affected by structural repairs, refinished panels, poor paintwork and missing factory trim or option content. Documented cosmetic refresh is acceptable; concealed accident or fire damage must be priced severely.
Original Singer commission with original spec sheet, unmodified since delivery, low-mileage, and continuous service through Singer or a Singer-approved specialist. Specification, colour, options and limited-build variants move values significantly. Buy the best-documented example in the most desirable specification you can justify, rather than a tired example of a rarer derivative that will need years of corrective work.
Regional ranges authored independently — each reflects its local market, not an FX conversion
Budget annually even if the car is used sparingly. Fluids age, tyres and date-coded rubber components must be replaced regardless of mileage, and stored cars need exercise. A documented maintenance rhythm protects both reliability and resale value.
Singer themselves operate a service programme; specialist independents handle routine work only. Before purchase, confirm parts availability for model-specific bodywork, electronics, gearbox and engine components. A discounted car waiting on unobtainable parts or a factory service slot is rarely a saving in collector ownership.
Each region quoted in its local currency — independent market readings, not FX conversions
Established secondary market; long Singer waitlist and rising commission cost supports used values.
| Date | Auction | Car | Mileage | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-08-16 | RM Sotheby's Monterey | 2016 Singer 911 Reimagined | 2,400 mi | $946,000 Sold |
Brand strength, bespoke programme, scarcity of unmodified cars on the secondary market.
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