Updated KALMAR Automotive’s 7-97 RS-R #0 prototype is its first air-cooled 911 to feature its water-cooled heating system. RS-R is the ultimate safari derivative from 7-97 range of bespoke build cars. Prototype 4.1 litre, 370bhp, 450Nm, high-torque engine with smooth drive-by-wire throttle, created for high speed adventures
Fully independent, hydraulic TracTive suspension with anti-roll bar deleted offers improved articulation and adjustable ride height to cross tarmac, ice and off-road terrains. Expedition equipment includes air conditioning, upgraded audio system and fridge.
KALMAR Automotive, enhancer and restorer of bespoke sports cars and special purpose-built vehicles, has upgraded its 7-97 RSR safari derivative. Owned by an active and enthusiastic German car collector who enjoys driving his cars hard around the world, this 7-97 RS-R (Rally Specification – Radical), is a template for future cars and as the prototype features the latest technology for a thrilling drive and the ability to take on the toughest conditions on the planet. Regarded as a ‘Swiss Army Knife of expedition cars’, the new iteration is dubbed #0 because of its prototype status. The new updates make it the most advanced KALMAR RS-R to date, building on the car’s at proven reputation and is destined to thrill on KALMAR Beyond Adventure’s expeditions in both Lapland and Africa later this year.
Based on a 964 Carrera 2 – chosen over a 993 for its more substantial rear axle mountings – this prototype car was fully stripped, repaired, seam welded and strengthened with a full cage. Weight has been slimmed down to just 1,200kg using Kevlar body panels, including the roof and doors, 16” magnesium rims and Lexan windows. Now more than ever, the 7-97 RS-R inspires confidence to venture far from the beaten track. With KALMAR Beyond Adventure’s epic driving events spanning everything from boulder crawling in Morocco to high-speed ice driving near the Arctic Circle, the car has been built with a flexible, high torque 4.1-litre engine delivering 370bhp and 450Nm. To deliver the need for smooth throttle control when traversing dunes and drifting on ice, it features a drive-by-wire throttle, a “re-ratioed” five-speed gearbox with revised final drive and fifth gear to suit the various driving environments and a recalibrated LSD complete the drivetrain.
A significant first for the latest RS-R specification is the introduction of a water-cooled heating system. One kilogram lighter than the arguably more complex and rust-prone, air-cooled original, it uses a KALMAR-developed oil/water heat exchanger which transfers energy from the oil system instead of the exhaust heat. Engineered specifically for use in a 911, the upgraded system both heats up faster and eliminates the convoluted and unsightly pipework of the original 964/993 heating architecture that often seizes up, precluding its use on period cars. It also frees up much needed space for a more efficient exhaust system and added cooling function in higher temperatures.
To deliver superior performance off-road, the 7-97 RS-R is fitted with TracTive’s two-way adjustable upside-down shock absorbers with remote canisters for more volume and extra cooling. The fully independent rose-jointed suspension offers the best handling on tarmac, ice or on gravel. The ride height can be raised or lowered by 50mm hydraulically from inside the car. The hydraulics act on the spring not the damper to retain strength and stiffness. Unlike some suspension conversions that retain the anti-roll bar, KALMAR Automotive uses the shock absorber to control body roll, yaw, pitch and deliver more articulation. The suspension is paired with all-terrain or World Rally Championship-style spiked Michelin winter tyres dependent on the adventure.
KALMAR’s 14 years of experience running events across the globe enabled the company to specify and package everything needed for an expedition. This includes a fully enclosed eight mm thick Kevlar/aluminium underfloor, LED headlights with additional high output light pod and custom engine air intakes moulded into the rear window apertures to improve filtration in very dusty regions. Roof vents assist the air con in cooling the driver and passenger. With comfort key to maximising long days on safari, the RS-R features Recaro seats (with tailored seating position), effective air conditioning, upgraded sound system and refrigerator. Additional fuel cans and tyre rack offer functionality and complete the safari look.
Whether it’s for traversing Africa or just crossing the city for a ‘cars and coffee’, KALMAR Automotive will build a 7-97 RS-R for any trip. Whilst this RS-R #0 prototype is closer to a stripped out rally car, other recent 7-97 RS-R builds have opted for more road-biased interior with sustainably sourced leather seats, more sound deadening, rain sensing wipers and twin airbags.
KALMAR Automotive also offers, via the sister company Beyond Adventure, a full concierge service for all owners. The 7-97 RS-R can be stored, maintained and delivered, on the button, by KALMAR to any of its Beyond Adventure events including upcoming trips in the Alps in August 2024 (24.08-31.08) and September 2024 (1-7.09), Namibia in May 2025, Africa in June 2025, and Australia in 2026.
Pricing for the KALMAR Automotive 7-97 RS-R starts at 450.000 Euros plus taxes and donor car. For more information on the RS-R visit www.kalmarautomotive.com/kalmar-7-97-rs-r/.
