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Singer 911 Carrera Cabriolet: it has pop-up lights!

Singer Vehicle Design has once again stirred excitement among automotive enthusiasts with its latest creation, a reimagined Porsche 911 Cabriolet that blends heritage design with modern engineering. Known for transforming classic air-cooled 911s into bespoke masterpieces, the California-based company has now applied its signature craftsmanship to an open-top model based on the 964 generation. The result is a stunning convertible that pays tribute to the past while embracing contemporary performance—and it does so with the return of a nostalgic feature few expected to see again: pop-up fog lights mounted in the hood.

This latest build draws inspiration from the wide-bodied “Turbo Look” Cabriolets of the 1980s. Those cars combined the muscular stance of the 911 Turbo with naturally aspirated power and open-air freedom. Singer’s interpretation captures that spirit through meticulously reshaped carbon-fiber body panels that enhance both aesthetics and performance. The widened fenders, sculpted bumpers, and purposeful stance give the car a commanding presence. Yet the most distinctive element is found at the front, where circular panels in the hood conceal pop-up auxiliary lights. When activated, they rise smoothly into view, adding both function and a dramatic visual flourish.

The decision to reposition the fog lights to the hood is more than a styling exercise. It allows the front fascia to remain clean and uncluttered, preserving the elegant lines that define the classic 911 silhouette. At the same time, the feature evokes rally-inspired accessories of decades past, when additional lighting was often fitted to high-performance road and competition cars. By integrating the lights into the hood rather than mounting them externally, Singer delivers a modern solution that feels both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition.

Beyond the lighting detail, the bodywork demonstrates the company’s commitment to craftsmanship and customization. Carbon-fiber front and rear fenders contribute to reduced weight while maintaining structural integrity. A deep front splitter enhances aerodynamic balance and sharpens the car’s profile. At the rear, customers can select from multiple spoiler options, including a fixed whale tail reminiscent of classic Turbos, a speed-activated deployable wing, or a more understated configuration without a spoiler. Each vehicle is finished in a bespoke paint color chosen by its owner, reinforcing the individualized nature of every commission.

Underneath the beautifully restored exterior lies a comprehensively strengthened chassis. Starting with a donor car from the 964 era, Singer completely disassembles and rebuilds the platform. Reinforcements using advanced composites and steel improve torsional rigidity, an especially important factor in a convertible. The suspension system features electronically adjustable dampers with multiple settings, allowing drivers to tailor the ride and handling to their preferences. A nose-lift system helps clear driveways and obstacles, while selectable traction and stability modes enhance confidence in varying road conditions.

Performance is driven by a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine that represents a careful evolution of classic Porsche engineering. Producing 420bhp, the engine combines traditional air-cooled character with modern advancements such as variable valve timing and water-cooled cylinder heads. The powerplant revs eagerly to 8,000 rpm, delivering a soundtrack and responsiveness that reward spirited driving. Power is sent exclusively to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox, maintaining a pure and engaging connection between driver and machine.

The driving experience is complemented by high-performance hardware, including carbon-ceramic brakes for strong and consistent stopping power. Custom 18-inch center-lock wheels wrapped in Michelin performance tires provide grip and stability. Together, these components ensure that the Cabriolet is not only visually captivating but also dynamically capable, whether cruising coastal roads or carving through mountain passes.

Inside, the cabin retains the familiar architecture of the classic 911 while elevating it with modern materials and craftsmanship. Hand-stitched leather, carefully selected trim finishes, and bespoke color combinations create an atmosphere of tailored luxury. Owners can opt for supportive touring seats or more aggressively bolstered alternatives for track-focused driving. Though the emphasis remains on analog charm, subtle integration of contemporary conveniences such as navigation and connectivity ensures everyday usability without detracting from the vintage aesthetic.

Production of the reimagined Cabriolet will be limited, underscoring its exclusivity. Each example is built to order, reflecting the personal tastes and preferences of its commissioner. The limited numbers not only heighten desirability but also allow Singer to maintain meticulous attention to detail throughout the build process. Pricing is not publicly disclosed, as costs vary depending on customization, but such craftsmanship inevitably positions the car among the most premium reinterpretations of the classic 911 available today.

The return of pop-up lighting, even in this specialized form, symbolizes a broader celebration of automotive creativity. Once common in sports cars, pop-up headlights and auxiliary lights gradually disappeared due to evolving safety regulations and design trends. By thoughtfully reintroducing the concept in a way that meets modern expectations, Singer demonstrates how heritage elements can be revived without compromising contemporary standards.

With this reimagined 911 Cabriolet, Singer once again proves that nostalgia and innovation can coexist beautifully. The car captures the timeless appeal of an air-cooled Porsche while incorporating advanced engineering and bespoke craftsmanship. It stands as both a tribute to the past and a statement about what is still possible when passion, precision, and imagination come together in the world of automotive design.

TopGear Magazine February 2026