The Mechanical Soul: Choosing Your 911’s Voice (3.6L vs. 3.8L)
When you commission a custom Porsche 911, every decision is personal. However, no choice defines the character of your car more than the engine. At Shoreline 911, we specialize in the final version of the 911 air-cooled powerplants, specifically the 3.6-litre and 3.8-litre flat-six.
Both engines offer the legendary mechanical soundtrack, but they deliver their power in very different ways. Here is how to choose the right heart for your build.
1. The 3.6L Purist: Elegance in Revs
The 3.6-litre engine is the quintessential air-cooled experience. It is the engine that defined the 964 and 993 generations, offering a balanced, rev-happy nature that feels perfectly at home on a winding back road.
Character: Linear power delivery and a screaming top-end.
Best For: The driver who wants a period-correct feel with modern reliability.
The Shoreline Touch: We blueprint these engines to tighter-than-factory tolerances, ensuring every horse is accounted for.
2. The 3.8L Powerhouse: The High-Torque "Outlaw"
For those seeking a more muscular Porsche restomod experience, we increase the displacement to 3.8 litres. This isn't just about a bigger number; it’s about a fundamental shift in how the car moves.
Character: Massive mid-range torque. You’ll find yourself shifting less and accelerating harder out of corners.
Best For: Drivers who want "supercar" performance that can keep up with modern traffic without breaking a sweat.
The Shoreline Touch: We use lightweight internal components to ensure that despite the larger displacement, the engine still revs with urgency.
Why Displacement Matters
In a lightweight custom Porsche 911, the difference of 200cc is massive. A 3.8L build provides a "punch" that changes the dynamic of the 993 chassis, making it feel aggressive and modern. Meanwhile, the 3.6L retains the delicate balance that made the original air-cooled cars famous.
Hand-Built in the UK
Regardless of the displacement you choose, every Shoreline engine is hand-assembled in our UK facility. We use aerospace-grade components and a "zero-compromise" approach to the build process.
Which engine fits your driving style? [Contact our Miami team to discuss your engine specs]