Stärke Speedster Gen 2: Modern Performance with Retro Porsche 356 Styling

Stärke, now under new ownership, has launched the Gen 2 Speedster, a restomod that combines a 982-generation 718 Boxster chassis with a custom body evoking the Porsche 356. CEO Seth Gortenburg told Robb Report that an engineer specializing in vintage Porsches 3-D-scanned the car and designed the new body, which was then manufactured by a California mold maker using five-axis CNC. The Gen 2 retains all original Porsche seals and hinges, as well as modern amenities like parking sensors and a power-retracting soft top. Powertrain options include a turbocharged 2.0-liter (300 hp), 2.5-liter (350 hp), or naturally aspirated 4.0-liter (394 hp) flat-six, paired with a seven-speed PDK or six-speed manual. The car rides on MacPherson strut suspension and can be equipped with PASM. Pricing starts at $135,000 if the customer supplies a donor chassis, or $189,000 if Stärke provides everything; the tested example cost $209,000. The company can produce ten cars per year, each requiring over 1,000 labor hours. The Speedster Gen 2 offers a modern driving experience with retro aesthetics, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a reliable, high-performance alternative to original 356s.