Thornley Kelham Unveils Porsche 356 European SL Restomod

Thornley Kelham, a niche manufacturer located in the Cotswolds, has introduced the Porsche 356 European SL, a restomod drawing inspiration from the Porsche Type 514, the all-aluminium racing variant of the 356, known as the 356 SL (Super Leicht), which was created for Porsche's inaugural participation in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Only four original 356 SLs were constructed for the event, featuring streamlined bodywork and fared-in wheels. The European SL represents a contemporary version, boasting handcrafted aluminium panels, a custom 2,332 cc air-cooled flat-four engine (offering 180 or 200 bhp), a five-speed transmission, and optional passive dampers, with a weight of 930 kg. Enhancements include refined styling and improved panel alignment. Founder Simon Thornley expressed his pride in this launch, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of Ferry Porsche sending the Type 514 to Le Mans. Pim van de Riet, director of the 356 program and an original 356 owner, noted that the vehicle embodies the essence of the classic, reimagined for modern times. Established in 2008, Thornley Kelham also creates restomods like the Lancia Aurelia Outlaw B20GT and updated Jaguar XK, alongside restoring classics from brands such as Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, Lamborghini, and Bizzarrini. The firm aims to produce 50 units and is currently welcoming expressions of interest.