Built for the Long Way Around: Signature Autosport Unveils Meridian 911 #001

WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA — There are faster ways to get somewhere.

But the most memorable roads rarely follow the shortest route.

Signature Autosports introduces Meridian 911 #001, the inaugural vehicle in its Signature Revival Works Meridian 911 series: an extensively reimagined 1989 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 combining the mechanical character of an air-cooled Porsche with purpose-engineered
all-terrain capability, striking gloss exposed-carbon bodywork, and bespoke grand-touring craftsmanship.

Based on the 964-generation Carrera 4, Meridian #001 retains the original platform’s all-wheel-drive heritage and unmistakable silhouette while expanding its range of possibilities. At its heart is a comprehensively rebuilt 3.8-liter naturally aspirated flat-six
featuring Pauter billet cylinder heads, Mahle Motorsport pistons and cylinders, forged internals, individual throttle bodies, and Haltech electronic management. Its chassis incorporates Russell Built Fabrication’s Sportsman Safari Kit, while the cabin has
been extensively reworked by Signature Autosports in black leather and Alcantara.

It is neither a conventional restoration nor a merely cosmetic safari conversion. It is a Porsche built around a simple idea: the journey should be every bit as rewarding as the destination.

THE FIRST MERIDIAN

The 1989 Carrera 4 introduced the 964 generation and brought all-wheel-drive technology to the production 911. That combination of traditional rear-engine personality and more sophisticated drivetrain engineering made it a compelling foundation for Meridian.

Signature Revival Works conceived the Meridian 911 as an air-cooled adventure grand tourer: capable on imperfect pavement and unpaved routes, yet still unmistakably a Porsche from behind the wheel. Its compact proportions, analog character, and familiar cabin
architecture remain integral to the experience. What changes is the range of roads its owner can confidently consider.

THE HEART OF MERIDIAN: A BESPOKE 3.8-LITER AIR-COOLED FLAT-SIX

The most extraordinary element of Meridian #001 may be the one hidden beneath its rear engine lid.

Rather than retaining the original 3.6-liter flat-six or relying on a collection of conventional bolt-on performance upgrades, the engine has undergone a comprehensive, split-case mechanical redevelopment, increasing displacement to 3.8 liters and incorporating
an extensive collection of specialized motorsport components.

The result is a naturally aspirated air-cooled powerplant engineered around the qualities that have long defined Porsche's most engaging engines: mechanical precision, immediate response, and a distinctive connection between driver and machine.

A PURPOSE-BUILT INTERNAL ASSEMBLY

The transformation begins with new Mahle Motorsport pistons and cylinders, complemented by lightweight forged Pauter connecting rods, a forged crankshaft, ceramic-coated connecting-rod bearings, coated main bearings, upgraded cylinder-head studs, and a fully
rebuilt oil pump.

Lightweight piston construction, specialized surface treatments, and carefully selected internal components establish the foundation for the increased-displacement engine.

CUSTOM PAUTER BILLET CYLINDER HEADS

Among the engine's defining features are custom billet aluminum cylinder heads manufactured by Pauter Machine.

Unlike a conventional refresh of the original cast cylinder heads, these purpose-manufactured components incorporate CNC-ported intake and exhaust passages, oversized valves, performance valve springs, and titanium retainers.

Custom-ground Web Cam camshafts, manufactured from new billets, complement the cylinder-head specification, while IWIS racing timing chains, renewed guides and tensioners, reconditioned rocker arms, new shafts, and RSR-style sealing components complete the
comprehensively redeveloped valvetrain.

INDIVIDUAL THROTTLE BODIES AND MODERN ENGINE MANAGEMENT

Air enters through a Clewett Engineering individual-throttle-body induction system, housed beneath a GT3-inspired carbon-fiber intake plenum with a high-flow air filter.

The individual throttle bodies provide a performance-oriented induction architecture designed to support precise throttle response and enhance the engine’s naturally aspirated character.

Managing the system is a Haltech electronic engine-management platform, paired with a custom coil-on-plug ignition system and dedicated mil-spec wiring harness. Additional upgrades include a Clewett serpentine-belt conversion, lightweight flywheel and clutch
assembly, and extensive carbon-fiber engine shrouding.

Taken together, these components represent far more than a conventional displacement increase.

They establish a bespoke mechanical foundation for Meridian #001, combining specialized engine construction with modern electronic control while preserving the naturally aspirated, air-cooled character that makes the classic Porsche 911 such an engaging driver's
car.

This is not simply a restored Porsche engine.  It is a comprehensively re-engineered flat-six developed to be every bit as distinctive as the vehicle surrounding it.

RUSSELL BUILT SPORTSMAN SAFARI ENGINEERING

Meridian #001 incorporates the Sportsman Safari Kit from Russell Built Fabrication, a purpose-engineered conversion developed for the 964-generation Porsche 911. Its NORRA Baja competition-derived suspension architecture is designed for up to 10 inches of wheel
travel, a 2-inch wheelbase extension, widened track, and increased ground clearance.

The conversion encompasses specialized suspension and mounting structures, control arms, axle and CV components, steering hardware, braking provisions, skid plates, protective panels, and purpose-built bumper assemblies. Meridian #001 is confirmed to use Eibach
coil springs throughout, with KING Racing Shocks.

Russell Built Baja Lite black alloy wheels and BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 tires complete the vehicle’s broad-shouldered stance. Rather than relying solely on elevated ride height, the Russell Built architecture fundamentally changes the 964’s suspension
and protective hardware for more demanding surfaces.

GLOSS CARBON FIBER. UNMISTAKABLE PRESENCE.

Against the light-colored body, Meridian #001’s gloss exposed-carbon components define its visual identity. Pronounced front and rear fender extensions accommodate the widened stance, while matching carbon-fiber bumper treatments create a cohesive appearance
from nose to tail.

A distinctive exposed-carbon roof treatment carries a roof-mounted Baja Designs auxiliary-light array. Additional forward-facing lamps near the hood’s leading edge and lighting integrated into the front bumper support the car’s all-terrain intent. Darkened
headlights, black wheels, and contrasting brake hardware complete an exterior that is unmistakably Porsche, yet conspicuously different from a standard 964.

The carbon weave, widened arches, and protective structures are not disguised. They are part of the design.

HANDCRAFTED FOR THE JOURNEY

The rugged exterior gives way to a carefully appointed cockpit. Signature Autosports’ upholstery team has extensively retrimmed the cabin with black leather, Alcantara, and contrasting stitching across the seats, dashboard, door panels, headliner, rear seating
area, and carpeting.

Custom door cards carry diagonally stitched upholstery, machined aluminum details, and integrated speakers. Rennline hardware contributes billet dashboard controls, door fittings, gauge surrounds, pedals, and a shift knob. A MOMO steering wheel with carbon-fiber
detailing complements the original five-gauge instrument layout and traditional driver-focused architecture.

Heated front seats, improved sound insulation, a Kenwood digital media receiver, Rockford Fosgate speakers, Sony amplification, and a compact Kenwood powered subwoofer add modern conveniences. A Classic Retrofit electronic air-conditioning system, including
dual condensers and an upgraded evaporator, supports genuine long-distance usability.

The objective is not to erase the age of the original Porsche, but to make spending a full day behind its wheel even more rewarding.

BUILT FOR THE LONG WAY AROUND

Meridian combines the elements of an engaging classic sports car with the freedom to explore farther afield. The rebuilt 3.8-liter flat-six offers a distinctive mechanical foundation; Russell Built’s conversion expands the variety of surfaces the vehicle can
tackle; the extensive carbon-fiber exterior communicates purpose; and the bespoke cabin welcomes extended journeys.

The first Meridian establishes the direction for future Signature Revival Works commissions, allowing clients to specify individual materials, exterior treatments, mechanical packages, and functional details around their driving ambitions.

“With Meridian, we wanted to create something that still feels unmistakably like a Porsche 911, but gives its owner an entirely different sense of freedom,” said Aaron Richardet, owner of Signature Autosports. “The first car combines a really special air-cooled
engine, serious all-terrain engineering, and an interior that’s been completely reworked around the driving experience. It’s about enjoying every mile along the way.”

THE FIRST MERIDIAN. AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE.

Meridian 911 #001 is offered for sale through Signature Autosports in Wilmington, North Carolina, with an asking price of $499,950 USD. Future Meridian commissions will offer opportunities for individual specifications around the enduring appeal of the air-cooled
911.

For additional information, photography, or purchase inquiries regarding Project Meridian 911, contact Signature Autosports at +1 (910) 632-0260, email

info@signatureautosports.com, or visit SignatureAutosports.com.

Meridian 911 — Built for the long way around.

Year: 1989

Make: Porsche

Model: 911 Carrera 4 Coupe (964)

Miles: Testing & Delivery Only Since Build Completion VIN: WP0AB0963KS450822

Stock #: 450822A Price: $499,950

DISCLAIMER

Meridian 911 #001 is a custom-modified vehicle based on an original 1989 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 and is not a factory Porsche model. Porsche, 911, Carrera, Carrera 4, 964, and other referenced trademarks belong to their respective owners and are used for identification
only. This vehicle and the Meridian 911 series are not manufactured, sponsored, approved, or endorsed by Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG or its affiliates.

Russell Built Fabrication and all other third-party manufacturer names, products, and trademarks are referenced solely to describe components and equipment; no third-party affiliation or endorsement is implied. Specifications and equipment may derive from manufacturer
descriptions, supplier invoices, build records, and other available documentation. Published kit suspension-travel and wheelbase figures describe the standard conversion specification and are not independently measured as-built values for this particular vehicle.

The $499,950 asking price excludes taxes, title and registration costs, shipping, and other applicable charges. Specifications, pricing, equipment, condition, and availability are subject to change without notice. Prospective purchasers are encouraged to inspect
the vehicle and contact Signature Autosports for current information.