by A New Player in the Retro-Modernization Market
The market for so-called reverse restomods, where modern technology is embodied in retro images, is gaining momentum. More and more companies are trying to offer their version of classic charm on a modern basis. Sometimes this leads to almost simultaneous announcements of very similar projects from different manufacturers.
This is exactly what happened between the Stärke Motor Company from Missouri and Signature Autosports from North Carolina. Both presented their interpretations of the legendary Porsche 356 Speedster, both built on the basis of a modern Boxster.
Although they are aimed at the same audience of enthusiasts, the approaches of the two companies differ. The Stärke model, which we wrote about earlier, reinterprets any fourth-generation Porsche 718 (from 2017 onwards). In contrast, the Signature Autosports project called the 356 Speedster Heritage relies on early, first and second-generation Boxsters as the donor platform.
Project Foundations: A Return to the Past
The 387 Speedster Heritage model aims to combine the recognizable image of the original 356 with the performance and familiar handling qualities of a modern Porsche. According to the manufacturer, the starting point is the Boxster S 987 generation, introduced in 2005. However, one of the builds shown appears to be based on a first-generation 986 model (1996), strongly reminiscent of a past replica from the British DNA Automotive.
Regardless of the donor generation, the final product receives a fully custom fiberglass body that reproduces the smooth lines of the 356 Speedster. Every panel has been reworked. Design features include chrome moldings, round LED headlights, teardrop-shaped LED taillights, streamlined rear headrest fairings, and a functional rear spoiler.
To preserve the classic silhouette, the Boxster’s side air intakes are masked with special covers. The car sits on custom 19-inch alloy wheels and retains the electrically powered folding roof from the donor car.
Modern Interior and Technical Features
Inside, the layout largely remains true to the original Boxster, but with a full leather retrim and Porsche’s signature Pepita fabric. The cabin is updated with modern amenities such as heated seats and climate control, and buyers can order upgrades to the standard multimedia system.
Under the hood, the 387 Speedster Heritage uses the naturally aspirated 3.4-liter flat-six engine from the Boxster S, tuned to 310 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed PDK automated manual. Suspension and brake system upgrades are also available through Signature Autosports.
Price Question and Comparison with Competitors
This brings us to the question of cost. According to information on the company’s website, the 387 Speedster Heritage starts at $199,950, with a limited number of build slots offered. This is a very high price for a replica based on a 20-year-old platform, especially considering that a brand new Porsche 718 Spyder RS in the US can be purchased for $170,100.
It is also more expensive than the version from Stärke, which uses a newer and more expensive 718 platform and starts at $189,000.
As for genuine vintage Speedsters, a well-preserved original will cost over $500,000. However, a standard 356 Coupe can sometimes be found for around $150,000.
Familiar Features and Questions of Origin
A closer look at the promotional images reveals an even more interesting fact. The example in Melting Silver with a Saddle interior looks very similar to the 387 Speedster model from Iconic Autobody, which was built by the British company Total Headturners from Essex.
This particular model was listed for sale in 2020 with a price of £69,995, which at the time was about $83,400. Whether there is an official collaboration between Signature Autosports and Total Headturners is unclear, but in any case, it makes the replica’s starting price of $200,000 seem even more ambiguous.
The phenomenon of high-budget replicas based on more affordable modern cars continues to evolve, blurring the lines between authenticity, nostalgia, and modern technology. A potential buyer faces a difficult choice between the emotional value of the reproduced image, the technical reliability of the modern base, and the investment appeal of a genuine vintage piece. In the case of Signature Autosports, the price, which exceeds the cost of new powerful Porsche models, calls into question the market logic of the offer, unless it includes exclusivity and craftsmanship at a level that justifies such a premium.
