Porsche Santa Clarita To Unveil Manthey Racing-Inspired Porsche 997 GT3 MR
One-off 2007 Porsche tribute said to blend an analog driving experience with modern racing technology…
Porsche Santa Clarita and Galpin Motors will pull the cover off a rare Manthey Racing-equipped 2007 Porsche 997 GT3 MR on Friday, Aug. 15, during the Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge at the Werks Reunion.
The special car is said to blend the analog driving experience of the Porsche 997 with modern racing technology, while paying homage to Manthey Racing’s success. Inspired by the legendary 911 GT3 R “Grello,” the build reimagines the race car as a street-legal tribute to one of Porsche’s most iconic race cars, according to a press release announcing the unveiling.
“This build represents the pinnacle of what’s possible when we honor Porsche’s heritage while pushing the boundaries of performance,” said Beau Boeckmann, president and chief operating officer of Galpin Motors. “To our knowledge, this is the only Manthey 4.2 build of its kind in the country. It’s a truly special car that embodies Porsche’s motorsport spirit while remaining fully street capable.”
Power & Chassis Upgrades
The original engine was sent to Manthey, where it was upgraded from a 3.6L to a 4.2L flat-six. The power output increased from 415 to 523 hp, aided by an ECU tune, GT3 R intake system, 997 Cup manifolds, an Akrapovič exhaust and an upgraded rotating assembly.
The chassis received Manthey-spec KW coil-overs, control arms and an alignment, as well as a center-lock conversion with BBS E88 wheels and upgraded brakes for track performance, the release noted. Its exterior features a Manthey front spoiler, GT3.2 rear spoiler and signature 4.2 end plates. The car is finished with a specialized House of Kolor Kameleon paint, a color-shifting finish that transitions from turquoise to purple.
Inside, Porsche Santa Clarita partnered with CarBone to craft an OEM-plus cabin inspired by Porsche’s Sonderwunsch program. Magenta Alcantara and leather accents contrast with purple carpeting, while a rare 1968 Heuer Super Autavia motorsports clock replaces the standard Sport Chrono. Additional upgrades include GT3 RS bucket seats, a 991-generation sport steering wheel, a CAE short shifter paired with a purple heartwood shift knob and a roll cage painted to match the exterior.
