About Kalmar 7-97 Classic

Kalmar, owned and founded by Jan Kalmar, started with humble beginnings. A former Porsche engineer who was key in the development of the Porsche 918 Spyder and the 991 generation of the 911, Jan had retained a strong engineering background that would eventually lead to the fruition of his own custom commissions. With a life based around cars and the only things he’s ever done involved with cars, his sense of passion about restoration was supercharged. Not wanting to restore vehicles back to the way they originally were, but instead bringing them up to the modern era in a way that was both tasteful and useful so that you could drive the car every day if you wanted to. With his company based in Estonia inside of an FIA-grade racetrack, testing relentlessly to perfect the ultimate backdate became second nature. KALMAR Automotive was born.

The name “7-97 Classic” was derived as tribute to the WSC95 race car, numbered 7, that race car driver Tom Kristensen drove to victory in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1997. At an event, Kristensen spoke with Jan Kalmar about building a special vehicle for himself to commemorate his first Le Mans win in a Porsche, seeing that he had other cars from other manufacturers to celebrate his past wins. Shortly after, Jan began conceptualizing what that special vehicle would be. It had to be cool and aggressive but subtle, pulling visual inspiration from the Porsche 911 ST, and employing numerous technologies throughout the car to cater to modern amenities. After that day, Kalmar Automotive was born.

All Kalmar 7-97 Classic vehicles start with the much-improved 993 chassis, with better handling and suspension components, and a more compliant ride compared to the very-popular 964 generation. Engineers at Kalmar do everything possible to enhance performance and comfort wherever possible, and tailoring each car to the owner’s specific preferences and customizations. From there, Kalmar introduces a host of fantastic design and performance upgrades that turn a regular 993 into an unforgettable experience.

EXTERIOR

Beginning with the 993 chassis, the Porsche body is stripped down to bare metal in anticipation of modification and a complete color change per the owner’s specifications. Each 7-97 Classic uses bespoke carbon fiber bodywork, widening the car by 4.3 inches for increasing handling and aesthetic improvements. The coupe is the stiffest of all Kalmar 7-97 variants offered, lending to the fantastic driving experience. The 993 chassis allows for a much more modern driving experience, with a contemporary multi-link rear axle, 6-speed transmission, along with some bespoke upgrades from Kalmar. A Tractive adaptive shock absorber system is employed which allows drivers to switch between comfort, sporty, and race handling and comfort.

Rain gutters are removed for better aerodynamics, and the deployment of lightweight components such as a lithium ion battery while removing unnecessary components helps yield a featherweight 2,678lbs. Two deck lid options are available, which are a traditional sloped model with a mechanically-raising grille along with a duck tail which adds a racing pedigree look with increased aerodynamic benefits. Modern glue-in glass, of Kalmar design, increases the total window area, reduces aerodynamic drag, and reduces wind noise. Modern bi-LED headlights illuminate the roads ahead while the lightweight 3-piece wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires keep you planted to the ground.

INTERIOR

Where most owners will end up spending most of their time, the interior of the Kalmar – Canepa #01 is a modern cocoon of excellence with a high degree of customization. A spartan-like interior where nothing is out of place is finished with custom dyed green leather per Canepa’s specifications wrap every surface, comfortable and contemporary Recaro Specialist seats keep you comfortable and secured during long and spirited driving, with the overall focus being a capable GT car or a thrilling day-to-day car. Remote central locking, a hidden bluetooth system, rain sensors, and a customized 4-speaker sound system with subwoofer elevates the technology underpinnings from 90s to modern 21st-century levels. Amenities such as modern air conditioning and advanced power assisted steering keep the driver comfortable and able to enjoy the Kalmar – Canepa #01 to the fullest without having to deal with the ramifications of triple-digit weather or tight traffic situations.

AERODYNAMICS

Kalmar’s engineers were tasked with increasing the aerodynamic effects of the Kalmar – Canepa #01 without changing its original DNA, no small tasks. Despite this, the engineering team came up with a combination of many small adjustments that yielded large results and a trained eye is needed to spot the differences. Using motorsport-grade simulation and production technologies, reduced wind resistance and decreased lift were found along with improved aero balance that aids in the driving of the Kalmar – Canepa #01. Custom glue-in glass reduced the car’s weight by 41kg and reduced wind resistance and noise, and modified cooling underneath continued to shift the aero balance to the rear along with ride height and rake. Yielding a 30% increase in downforce on the front axle with reduced rear lift by 20%, these changes allow for increased stability at all speeds.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

A coachbuilt masterpiece would be nothing without a memorable engine, and the Kalmar does not disappoint. Optioned with a 4.0-liter air-cooled flat six engine producing 401hp, this “Triple 4” engine includes individual throttle bodies, mechanical lifters, a double oil cooler and dual-mass flywheel for comfortable driving. Kalmar-custom intakes, a bespoke exhaust system, coil-on-plug ignition, and a drive-by-wire e-gas system are also included. A custom Kalmar engine management system with OBDII compatibility and remote access aid in simplifying diagnostics and data logging.

With an advanced suspension system with multiple levels of variance, Kalmar cars include Tractive adaptable shock absorber systems to allow for different levels of comfort. Harder-than-OEM bushings allow Kalmar to specify the exact driving comfort and requirements of each owner to their specifications. A race-specified braking system that is non-assisted yields a more reliable and responsive feel without brake fade, paired with carbon ceramic disc brakes for ultimate stopping power. Electric air conditioning and electric power steering yield a beautiful engine bay that is simple and elegant without the mess of belts and wires.