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Opening
Picture a sleek Porsche 911, its glossy lines hinting at speed, now transformed into a rugged off‑road machine ready to tackle any terrain. That’s the vision behind Resolute Motorsports, a boutique shop that takes a classic German sports car and turns it into a high‑performance, all‑terrain beast. The result is a vehicle that blends the unmistakable Porsche DNA with the raw power and durability of a desert‑ready machine. For enthusiasts who crave both speed and adventure, this build offers a glimpse into what happens when precision engineering meets off‑road ambition.
From Chuckles Garage to Resolute Motorsports
Resolute Motorsports operates out of two locations: Chuckles Garage, where the team handles general automotive work, and a dedicated Porsche‑specific shop that focuses on custom builds. The owner, a self‑described “irresponsible adult,” explains that the goal is to create cars that can be driven on the street and then ripped apart for the weekend. The shop’s motto is simple: no shortcuts, no compromises. Every component is hand‑selected, and the build process is meticulous, from the first bolt to the final paint job. The team prides itself on using only mil‑spec parts, Ray‑Cam sheathing, and TIG welding to ensure durability.
The Engine and Powertrain
The centerpiece of the shop’s portfolio is a 911 that has been heavily modified. The engine has been swapped for a 3.6‑liter, 300‑horsepower unit, and the transmission has been upgraded to handle the increased torque. The car also features a custom suspension designed by Moton, which offers longer travel and valve‑controlled damping to keep the chassis stable over rough ground. The result is a vehicle that can reach 7,000 RPM in a single gear, delivering a roar that is as thrilling as it is intimidating. The engine is a built Rissan 3.6 six with RSA intake, ITBs, and a mil‑spec wiring harness.
Off‑Road Modifications
To survive the desert, the 911 has been fitted with a full tubular subframe, a complete skid plate that runs from front to back, and reinforced bumpers that double as chassis mounting points. The winch, off‑road lights, and a 5,000‑lb winch control system give the car the ability to pull itself out of the mud or climb steep inclines. The entire body is wrapped in mil‑spec bulkheads and Ray‑Cam sheathing, ensuring that every wire and component is protected from dust and vibration. Even the interior is built to withstand the rigors of off‑road use, with heavy‑grade upholstery, a reinforced roll‑bar, and a winch control panel that includes a 5,000‑lb winch and anti‑gravity batteries. The car can be driven on asphalt, jumped over obstacles, and then taken to the desert for a full off‑road adventure.
Performance and Safety
Braking is handled by a pair of Brembo 16‑inch discs, the largest that can fit the wheel size. The front brakes required a small machining adjustment to clear the wheel, but the result is a braking system that can stop the car from high speeds without fade. The car also uses a Motech PDM15 power‑train management system, a fuel‑safe cell, and a kinetic strap for added safety. The steering is responsive, and the handbrake can be used for controlled slides, giving the driver precise control in tight corners. The suspension uses Moton 3‑way dampers with longer travel and valve‑controlled damping, specifically tuned for the weight and use of this vehicle.
Interior and Aesthetics
Inside, the car feels like a race car more than a road vehicle. The seats are custom Ricaro race seats upholstered in Napa leather with Carrera Turbo inserts, and the dash is covered in the same material. The original OEM fabric from the 1980s has been preserved and extended to the doors. All bulkheads are waterproof and sealed, and the cabin is free of plastic, giving it a clean, professional look. The owner also added a stereo system and interior lights, which the team praised:
"I like the fact that you still have interior lights in here." – Owner. The steering wheel is a race wheel, the shifter is a race shifter, and the pedals are Renline footrest and pedals, all contributing to a pure racing feel.
Build Process and Craftsmanship
The shop strips the car down to nothing, applies a heavy‑grade undercoat, and then rebuilds it with precision. Every weld is TIG‑welded, and the wiring harness is mil‑spec with Ray‑Cam sheathing. The team uses a 3‑way reservoir system from Moton for the suspension, and the brakes are fitted with custom machining to accommodate the 16‑inch wheels. The result is a vehicle that can be driven on asphalt, jumped over obstacles, and then taken to the desert for a full off‑road adventure. The build process includes a full aluminum skid plate, a winch control panel, and a reinforced roll‑bar, all designed to keep the car safe and functional in extreme conditions.
Cost and Availability
While the price tag for a custom build of this caliber can reach $400,000, the level of craftsmanship and performance is unmatched. The shop has mentioned the possibility of a payment system for interested buyers, making the dream more attainable for some. For those who want a car that can do it all, this build offers a blueprint for turning a classic sports car into a versatile, high‑performance machine.
Closing
Resolute Motorsports’ 911 is a testament to what can be achieved when a team refuses to cut corners. The car can be driven on the street, jumped over obstacles, and then taken to the desert for a full off‑road adventure. With its blend of Porsche heritage, custom engineering, and off‑road capability, it stands as a unique example of automotive ingenuity.