DAVID ATELIER
PORSCHE 993 TURBO: OEM+ FURTHER DEVELOPMENT BASED ON A CUSTOM CONCEPT
Preserving originality, pushing the boundaries of technical possibilities, and developing each vehicle individually: With its Porsche 993 Turbo projects, DAVID ATELIER demonstrates how classic Porsche DNA can be combined with modern requirements.
ORIGINAL. AND BETTER.
The Porsche 993 Turbo serves as the basis for a new series of custom vehicle projects at DAVID ATELIER. The goal is not to alter the character of the original, but to consistently refine it.
Each vehicle is created according to a unique concept. Color, features, engine performance, and technical components are tailored to the customer’s specific wishes—always ensuring that the modifications are in keeping with the vehicle and its era.
The philosophy: OEM+—as original as possible, as much refinement as makes sense.
PORSCHE 993 TURBO OEM+: WHAT’S THE FOCUS?
ORIGINALITY
For each vehicle, we first determine which original specifications should be preserved or restored. Modifications made in previous decades may be deliberately reversed in the process.
CUSTOMIZATION
Color, interior trim, equipment packages, and technical configuration are individually tailored to each vehicle and its owner.
TECHNOLOGY
Performance, suspension, braking system, and modern features can be specifically enhanced—without losing the classic character of the Porsche 993 Turbo.
CRAFTSMANSHIP
The vehicles are thoroughly disassembled, inspected, and systematically rebuilt. Well-preserved original parts are retained, while worn-out or technically obsolete components are refurbished or replaced.
THE LAUNCH OF THE PORSCHE 993 TURBO PROJECT SERIES
At the time this video was filmed, there were four Porsche 993 Turbos in the workshop simultaneously, all being built and further developed according to the OEM+ principle.
A total of six individual 993 Turbo projects are planned. Two additional vehicles have already been completed. This demonstrates right from the start just how differently a Porsche 993 Turbo can be interpreted within the same philosophy.
At DAVID ATELIER, OEM+ does not mean building every vehicle according to the same blueprint. The starting point is always the existing structure, the original configuration, and the vision of the respective owner.
PROJECT 01: BACK TO RIVIERABLAU
One of the vehicles shown here has an olive-colored paint job and an aero package at the time the photo was taken. However, its original specifications were different.
The Porsche was originally delivered in Riviera Blue and is to be restored to a condition closer to that original state. The aftermarket aero kit is also not part of the original configuration.
Originality trumps modification.
This vehicle exemplifies that DAVID ATELIER does not automatically mean more features or more customization. Sometimes, the most consistent evolution lies precisely in reversing later modifications.
PROJECT 02: BAHAMA YELLOW AND BLUE INTERIOR
In contrast, the next Porsche 993 Turbo will focus on a deliberately customized configuration.
The vehicle will be repainted in Bahama Yellow, paired with a blue interior. At the same time, a moderate increase in performance is planned.
The project showcases the other side of the OEM+ concept: A configuration can be unconventional and personalized, as long as the colors, materials, and technology come together to create a harmonious overall look.
PROJECT 03: OVER 700 PS AS THE TECHNICAL LEADER
The Porsche 993 Turbo, which DAVID ATELIER is building for himself, really goes the extra mile.
The vehicle serves as the technical trailblazer for the project series and is intended to demonstrate what possibilities can be realized within the concept.
Plans include, among other things:
- Over 700 PS of power
- Fixed roof instead of a sunroof
- Original Porsche components for the conversion
- Side air intakes to X79 specifications
- Aerodynamics package
- Comprehensively redesigned interior
- Retention of selected carbon fiber components
This particular vehicle is intended to demonstrate just how far customization can go without the Porsche 993 Turbo losing its fundamental character.
WHY IS THE PORSCHE 993 TURBO SUITABLE FOR SUCH PROJECTS?
A key factor is the quality of the starting point.
Even after about three decades, many well-preserved Porsche 993 Turbos still boast remarkably high-quality bodywork and materials. The video showcases vehicles in which even the originally galvanized screws, clamps, and other components are still in very good condition.
This substance makes it possible to selectively preserve existing original parts rather than unnecessarily rebuilding a vehicle from scratch.
That is precisely what constitutes a key part of the DAVID ATELIER approach:
Don’t renew something just because you can—renew it only when it makes sense.
FROM A DISASSEMBLED VEHICLE TO A CUSTOM-BUILT REBUILD
The fourth Porsche 993 Turbo on display really shows just how far a project can go.
The vehicle is largely disassembled and mounted on a frame so that it can move. The axles and wheels have already been removed at this point.
Every screw and every component is systematically documented and categorized. This process also takes into account differences between the various Porsche generations—for example, in the original surface treatment and finish of fasteners.
At the same time, the exposed body allows for an accurate assessment of its condition.
The vehicle shown here has a particularly solid foundation: no extensive welding work, no extensive body filler work, and a body that is, overall, in very good condition.
WHAT DOES OEM+ MEAN AT DAVID ATELIER?
The design is generally based on what was technically and aesthetically possible at the time of the Porsche 993.
These may include, for example:
- side air intakes
- Exclusive leather
- leather-wrapped controls and accents
- Hardback seats
- Wheel accents in the car’s color
- Turbo S exhaust system
- WLS2 components and performance levels
These contemporary possibilities form the foundation.
However, wherever modern technology offers a clear functional advantage, we deliberately take it a step further.
JUST AS GOOD AS BACK THEN. OR BETTER.
The OEM+ approach, therefore, goes beyond a purely historical reconstruction.
Today’s tires offer significantly better performance than their counterparts from the 1990s. When it comes to the suspension, modern solutions from KW can be used if more precise handling is desired.
The braking system can also be further developed from a technical standpoint. Modern components are used wherever they improve safety and performance.
The same applies to today’s requirements, such as connectivity and telephony. It is crucial that the technology be integrated as unobtrusively as possible.
The goal remains:
A Porsche 993 Turbo that looks as if it had rolled off the assembly line in this form back then.
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE PROJECT SERIES
MORE THAN 14 MONTHS
: Six Custom Projects
OEM+ Philosophy
Over 700 PS
DAVID ATELIER: TRUE TO ITS ERA. TAILORED TO YOU.
At DAVID ATELIER, we don’t build vehicles based on a fixed modular system.
Every project begins with the question of what defines this specific vehicle and what it should become.
Original specifications can be restored, historic options reinterpreted, and technical components further developed. What matters most is that the end result is a harmonious vehicle—tailored to its owner, yet still clearly recognizable as a Porsche.
Original. And better.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PORSCHE 993 TURBO PROJECTS
What does "OEM+" mean for the Porsche 993 Turbo?
OEM+ means preserving the vehicle’s original character and enhancing it with technical or design solutions that are in keeping with the Porsche 993 and its era.
How customized can a Porsche 993 Turbo be built at DAVID ATELIER?
Are there plans for performance upgrades for the Porsche 993 Turbo?
Are only original Porsche components used?
Why is the Porsche 993 Turbo used as the base model?
Is the vehicle’s original character preserved?
CONCLUSION: OEM+ AS A CLEAR POSITION
The Porsche 993 Turbo project series shows just how varied individual vehicle concepts can be—while still adhering to a common philosophy.
Sometimes, DAVID ATELIER means restoring a Porsche to a state closer to its original specifications. In other cases, the company deliberately creates unique color and interior design concepts or technically ambitious vehicles with significantly increased performance.
The key here is not to make as many changes as possible. Rather, it is about combining originality, technical advancements, and personal preferences in such a way that the vehicle remains harmonious as a whole.
That is precisely what DAVID ATELIER’s OEM+ approach is all about: preserving Porsche’s contemporary DNA, incorporating modern technology where it offers genuine added value, and tailoring each vehicle individually to its owner.
Original. And better.
TRANSCRIPT OF THE PROJECT EPISODE
In the kickoff episode of the Porsche 993 Turbo project series, DAVID ATELIER provides a glimpse into several vehicles currently being built according to custom OEM+ concepts. From the restoration of an originally Riviera Blue Porsche 993 Turbo to unusual paint and interior combinations, all the way to a vehicle with more than 700 PS, these projects showcase the full range of possible modifications.
The focus is on original components, contemporary Porsche options, and modern technical enhancements. At the same time, Benjamin David explains why the Porsche 993 Turbo, thanks to its high-quality materials and craftsmanship, serves as a particularly suitable foundation for custom DAVID ATELIER projects.
VIEW FULL TRANSCRIPT
00:00
THE LAUNCH OF THE PORSCHE 993 TURBO PROJECTS
DAVID ATELIER is launching with a clear mission: to customize the Porsche 993 Turbo according to the OEM+ principle. At the time this video was filmed, there were four vehicles in the workshop at once, being restored, optimized, and built according to different concepts.
00:24
PROJECT 01: BACK TO RIVIERA BLUE
The first vehicle shown currently features an olive-colored paint job and an aero package. However, the Porsche was originally delivered in Riviera Blue and is to be restored to a configuration closer to its original state.
The focus here is on restoring the vehicle to its original condition. Later modifications and alterations are deliberately reversed if they do not conform to the vehicle’s original specifications.
01:06
PROJECT 02: BAHAMA YELLOW WITH BLUE INTERIOR
The second Porsche 993 Turbo focuses on a significantly more personalized configuration. The vehicle is repainted in Baham Yellow and paired with a blue interior.
In addition, a moderate performance upgrade is planned. The project demonstrates that OEM+ does not necessarily mean a return to the original, but also deliberately allows for individual concepts.
01:24
PROJECT 03: OVER 700 PS AS A TECHNICAL PIONEER
The third Porsche 993 Turbo is being built by DAVID ATELIER for its own use and is intended to demonstrate what is technically possible. The plan is to increase its power output to over 700 PS.
The planned changes include, among other things, a solid roof without a sunroof, side air intakes designed to X79 specifications, an aero package, and extensive interior modifications.
02:19
A UNIQUE INTERIOR DESIGN CONCEPT
A deliberately unconventional design concept is planned for the interior of the 700 PS project. Carbon fiber components will be retained, while other areas will be extensively redesigned.
The design does not aim for the most understated approach possible; rather, it is intended to make a bold, distinctive statement and demonstrate just how far customization can go within the OEM+ concept.
02:46
WHY THE PORSCHE 993 TURBO IS SUCH A GOOD BASIS
The video particularly highlights the high quality of the materials and workmanship in the Porsche 993 Turbo. Even after about three decades, many of the original screws, clamps, and body panels are still in remarkably good condition.
It is precisely this quality that makes the Porsche 993 Turbo a particularly suitable platform for extensive restoration and customization projects.
03:38
PROJECT 04: COMPLETELY DISASSEMBLED AND SYSTEMATICALLY REASSEMBLED
The fourth vehicle is already in an advanced stage of disassembly. The axles and wheels have been removed so that the body can be moved and worked on while mounted on a frame.
The vehicle will also feature side air intakes, a performance upgrade, and custom modifications to its color and equipment.
04:08
ORDER DOWN TO THE SMALLEST DETAIL
During disassembly, all screws and components are systematically organized, labeled, and stored. DAVID ATELIER also takes into account differences between individual Porsche generations, such as the original surface finish of fasteners.
The exposed body shows very good condition without requiring extensive welding or body filler work.
05:10
SIX PROJECTS AND TWO VEHICLES ALREADY COMPLETED
A total of six custom Porsche 993 Turbo projects are planned. Two additional vehicles have already been completed, meaning that DAVID ATELIER has now built or further developed a total of eight vehicles using its own OEM+ approach.
05:34
WHAT WAS POSSIBLE IN 1998 FORMS THE BASIS
The design draws inspiration from the technical and stylistic possibilities of the late 1990s. These include, for example, side air intakes, exclusive leather, leather-wrapped controls, hardback seats, wheel details in the body color, Turbo S exhaust systems, and WLS2 components.
These contemporary options form the basis for customized designs.
06:01
JUST AS GOOD AS 1998—OR BETTER
The OEM+ approach deliberately goes beyond a mere historical reconstruction. Modern tires, optimized suspensions, and advanced braking systems are used when they offer functional benefits.
The key is to ensure that these changes are integrated as discreetly as possible and blend in stylistically with the vehicle.
06:40
MODERN CONNECTIVITY, SEAMLESSLY INTEGRATED
Modern requirements such as telephony and connectivity are also taken into account. However, technical solutions should not be visible at first glance but should integrate as harmoniously as possible into the overall historical appearance.
The goal is a vehicle that, despite its modern technology, could appear as if it had been possible to produce it in this form straight from the factory back then.
06:55
CONCLUSION: THE BEGINNING OF A NEW SERIES OF PROJECTS
With the Porsche 993 Turbo projects, DAVID ATELIER is launching an extensive series of custom vehicle developments. Each vehicle is given its own unique concept while remaining true to the shared OEM+ philosophy.
Originality, craftsmanship, technical advancement, and personal preferences form the foundation of every project.
