This is what epic looks like.
Every Porsche 911 who climbs the hill at Goodwood is worth a look. This is doubly true for classic 911s, particularly if the driver is able to push the throttle hard. This is exactly what we have, and we are tempted to claim that this may be the coolest run in the entire event. That’s a bold statement considering we still have many more cars to go, but we challenge you to watch this video and not whoop and holler for this Porsche-of-many-colors.
We are giggling at the driver James Turner’s artistic skill. This 911 is an early 911 with a vibrant exterior design by Paul Smith. The Porsche’s old 2.0-liter engine is being used to its full potential. With the period-accurate thin rubber, this run is a lesson in how to handle a heavy 911. Turner is an expert in opposite-lock control and knows the unique characteristics of this hard-to-master sports car. He makes each turn look effortless, despite being on the edge of his abilities. Anybody who has driven an old 911 knows that nothing could be further from reality.
He doesn’t hold back. Every snap of his rear is held in place before things get outof control. Even at the Wall, he enters the right-hander with a gentle drift that would make us squirm. Turner’s 2.0-liter flat-six, which he boils for almost the whole run, creates a wonderful soundtrack to the action. The announcers mention that Turner is trying to “giving it all.” But, we think it’s more like freaking fearless.
Turner will not be setting any speed records with the Porsche classic, but that’s not what this run’s about. It’s a classic sports car that makes a lot of noise and is driven by a professional driver who treats the 911 as the fine instrument it truly is. This single run could be watched all day. We probably will.