Speciale versie van GT2 RS
Porsche has recently re-registered the name ‘Flachbau’. This could mean that this ‘ugly’ model with the low nose and pop-up headlights could return. Possibly also as a GT2 RS.
Porsche knows better than anyone how to endlessly exploit a successful model. The Porsche 911 therefore has dozens of variants, which are lovingly purchased by enthusiasts and collectors. For these variants, Porsche often draws on the past and that is paying off for the brand.
But by registering the name ‘Flachbau’, Porsche may be taking a risk, because this variant from the 70s – which is also called ‘Slantnose’ or ‘Flatnose’ in English – is considered one of the ugliest models ever made.
The model with the low front end came about in racing. The first copies were introduced on the 935 racing car, which was inspired by the Porsche 930 Turbo.
Torpedobuizen
The lower front of this model without the characteristic ‘torpedo tubes’ with upright lights provided a higher top speed and more stability on the long stretches. Later models were given folding headlights, but the headlights of the first generation were instead integrated into the lower part of the front bumper, making the front look rather bare.
Porsche decided to also implement this ‘race look’ in production models not long afterwards, but that was not a resounding success. In total, less than a thousand Slantnose models were built. Due to their rarity, these are now sought-after models and the appreciation for these Porsches seems to be increasing. Perhaps that is why Porsche wants to reintroduce this front.
Handelsmerkaanvraag
This could at least be evident from a recent trademark application to the European Intellectual Property Office. The American Road & Track discovered that the names ‘Porsche Flachbau’ and ‘Flachbau RS’ were registered on May 14.
Of course, car manufacturers occasionally register old names to protect their intellectual property, but Porsche has recently made all kinds of retro-inspired 911s with which they paid tribute to specific decades.
There are models that refer to the 50s, 60s and 70s of the last century. A renewed Flachbau would be an ideal tribute to the 80s.
GT2 RS
The name Flachbau RS could also be used for special versions of the 911, because Porsche is also working on a new top model: the 911 GT2 RS. A special version of that car with a sloping nose is possibly planned.
If Porsche is going to produce this model in a limited edition, collectors will undoubtedly fall over each other to get their hands on a copy, however ugly.