Monterey Car Week is always a spectacle, but this year, a newcomer has grabbed the spotlight: the Kalmar 9x9. Unveiled at The Quail, this retro-inspired hypercar pays tribute to one of the most iconic sports cars in history—the Porsche 959. While Kalmar Automotive never explicitly mentions Porsche in its announcement, the 9x9's design leaves little doubt about its muse. The upright stance, sloping roofline, and prominent rear wing all echo the legendary 959, while the name "9x9" is a clear nod to the Porsche lineage.
Kalmar Automotive has positioned the 9x9 as the "world's first retro hypercar," a bold claim backed by serious performance. Under the hood, or rather in the rear, lies a 3.8-liter turbocharged flat-six engine churning out an astonishing 930 horsepower. This power is channeled to all four wheels through a dual-clutch transmission, although Kalmar is keeping the source of the gearbox under wraps. For those who find nearly a thousand horses a bit too wild, Kalmar offers the 9x9 Sport variant with a more manageable 650 horsepower and a seven-speed manual transmission.
If you're a purist, the 9x9 Leichtbau might be your ideal choice. This lightweight version sheds pounds to tip the scales at just 2,755 pounds and comes equipped with a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter engine driving the rear wheels. Power figures for the Leichtbau haven't been disclosed, but it's safe to assume that with such a low curb weight, performance will be nothing short of exhilarating.
Every 9x9 is built with meticulous attention to detail, featuring a full carbon-fiber body that sits atop a bespoke double-wishbone pushrod suspension system. This setup is complemented by adaptive dampers and rear-wheel steering, ensuring that the 9x9 isn't just a straight-line monster but a precision tool on the track. The braking system is equally advanced, boasting 3D-printed titanium brake calipers paired with ceramic discs, all concealed behind magnesium wheels.
Aerodynamics play a crucial role in the 9x9's design, striking a balance between retro aesthetics and modern performance. The car's exterior isn't just for show; it's been carefully crafted to provide the downforce needed for high-speed stability, making it as functional as it is beautiful.
The interior of the Kalmar 9x9 is a testament to its singular focus on driving. There are no frills—just two seats, a steering wheel, and the bare essentials needed for an immersive driving experience. Forget about an infotainment system or even a radio; the 9x9's cockpit is all about connecting the driver to the road. However, it's not entirely devoid of modern technology. LCD screens provide the necessary driver information, and a hidden roll cage adds an extra layer of safety. Stability and traction controls are also included, ensuring that this isn't a purely analog experience—Kalmar has thoughtfully blended old-school charm with contemporary safety.
The Kalmar 9x9 isn't just a tribute to the Porsche 959; it's a reinvention of what a retro-inspired hypercar can be. By combining cutting-edge engineering with a design that harkens back to one of the most celebrated sports cars of all time, Kalmar has created something truly special. Whether you're drawn to its jaw-dropping performance or its nostalgic design, the 9x9 is poised to be a standout in the world of modern hypercars. With deliveries expected to begin in 2025, the countdown has already begun for one of the most anticipated automotive debuts in recent memory.
Wael is an automotive content writer specializes in creating written content for Motor 283. Producing a wide range of content, including blog posts, articles, product descriptions, reviews, and technical guides related to cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles, with an unprecedented passion for cars, and motorcycles.
In the world of aftermarket automotive upgrades, striking the right balance between aggression and style is no easy feat. However, Techart, a renowned German tuner, appears to have nailed it with their new body kit for the facelifted third-generation (E3) Porsche Cayenne. Dubbed the Aero Kit I, this package enhances the already striking SUV with subtle yet impactful changes that elevate both its aesthetics and performance.
In the world of automotive legends, few cars command as much respect as the Porsche 911 GT1. This iconic race car of the late 1990s left an indelible mark on motorsports history, and now, UK-based Tuthill Porsche has taken it upon themselves to pay homage with their own creation: the GT One. This limited-production marvel, with just 22 examples planned, captures the essence of the original while infusing modern engineering and craftsmanship. One of the intriguing aspects of the GT One is the mystery surrounding its foundation. Tuthill Porsche remains coy about what exactly this car is based on—or if it's based on anything specific at all. The original 911 GT1 from 1996 and 1997 was a hybrid of sorts, utilizing the front and center section of a production 911, paired with a unique steel tubular rear taken from the 962 prototype. Tuthill's GT One, however, is a mid-engined machine that clearly deviates from the traditional 911 architecture, especially at the rear.
Owners of a #3 top-of-the-line model looking to lend their vehicle an even more exclusive 1-Second-Wow effect will find a selection of tailor-made bodywork components in the new BRABUS individualization range. These components not only make the five-door look more distinctive, but also further optimize the aerodynamic properties. To ensure a perfect fit, all components are manufactured in OEM quality from high-grade PUR synthetic material.
SHARE
