Let's talk about a truly unique automotive project that has caught my attention. Josep Rubau, a Catalan designer with an impressive background, has returned to the car scene with a bold and unconventional vision.
Rubau, who once designed a powerful 720 hp hypercar, is now stripping down Porsche's 718 Spyder RS to create 19 one-of-a-kind speedsters. But here's the twist: these speedsters are windscreen-less, a deliberate design choice inspired by the sports-racing cars of the 1950s.
What makes this project fascinating is the contrast it presents. On one hand, you have the raw, exposed nature of the speedster, a design that prioritizes the connection between driver and road. On the other, you have the meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship, with every body panel custom-built and a bespoke titanium exhaust handcrafted in Madrid.
The Designer's Journey
Josep Rubau's story is an intriguing one. After studying industrial design and working on projects like the Beetle Dune concept, he unveiled his Tramontana hypercar in 2005. This open-wheel beauty, with its carbon fiber tub and powerful engine, was a notable achievement. But then, Rubau stepped away from the automotive world for over a decade, focusing on other ventures like Red Shark Bikes.
His return with Rubau Cars is a family affair, and his comeback project is a far cry from the typical hypercar race. It's a testament to his passion for driving and his desire to create something unique and meaningful.
The Speedster's Design
The speedster's design is a study in contrasts. The removal of the windscreen and A-pillars is a bold statement, harkening back to a bygone era of racing. It's a design choice that prioritizes the driving experience, offering an unfiltered connection to the road. However, this extreme measure is somewhat undermined by the PDK-only gearbox, a decision that, in my opinion, feels at odds with the spirit of driving that Rubau Cars embodies.
The dual cockpit, with its removable central strut, is a nod to period racing cars, adding a touch of vintage charm. The carbon fiber bucket seats, styled after the 918 Spyder, are a modern twist, and the asymmetrical leather scheme gives each car a unique, hand-crafted feel.
Engineering Under the Skin
Under the custom-built body panels lies the heart of the Porsche 718 Spyder RS. The MA176 flat-six engine, tuned to 550 hp, is a powerful force, spinning up to 9,000 rpm. The prototype's weight, at around 1,418 kg, is impressive, and Rubau promises an even lighter production version.
Aerodynamic changes further enhance the speedster's performance, reducing drag and lowering the center of gravity. The carbon fiber strut bracing adds significant torsional rigidity, making the car stiffer than a 996-generation 911 coupé.
A Tribute to Le Mans
Each of the 19 speedsters is a tribute to Porsche's Le Mans victories. Spread across three donor platforms, each car carries a numbered plaque referencing a specific year and victory. This personal touch adds a layer of meaning and exclusivity to the project.
Final Thoughts
Rubau Cars' project is a fascinating blend of old and new, of raw driving experience and meticulous craftsmanship. While the PDK-only gearbox may be a point of contention for some, the overall concept is undeniably intriguing. With only 19 examples, this project is more of a coachbuilding commission than a traditional production run, making it an exclusive and captivating story for automotive enthusiasts.
Personally, I find it inspiring to see designers like Josep Rubau bringing their unique vision to life, pushing the boundaries of what a car can be and offering a fresh perspective on the driving experience.
