James Horsley's Porsche 356 replica is our August car of the month. In James own words:
'My Martin & Walker Technics Speedster is a fibreglass bodied tribute to the classic Porsche 356. The kit is based on a shortened 1972 beetle chassis. This car was originally built by a prior owner in left hand drive format with the intention being to export it to Germany. When kit car legislation and import restrictions made this problematic the car was rushed through an IVA (the kit car build test) and sold on.
That is where I took over. A number of mechanical issues were identified with the car so I deconstructed it, and also made the decision to convert it back to right hand drive! Having previously built and restored multiple beetles, beach buggies and Nova kit cars VW mechanicals do not phase me!
My work has included a partial rewire and full dash gauge replacement, a full front suspension changeover with new axle, ball joints, track rods etc. And also re routing of all fuel and brake lines. A new front heated screen was also sourced to help on those misty mornings.
Once I was satisfied mechanically the car was sound I arranged for a new interior and roof to be fitted in reed leather/mohair to complement the classic Porsche slate grey bodywork.
Since completion in 2025 (is any kit car ever finished!?) we have covered around 2000 miles attending a mix of Classic, VW and kit car shows. I am a regular attendee at Goodwood events, Sadcase Events, Southern Classic Events and also other local meets such as Classics by the River in Ford, VW Heritage Heretics nights and other Speedster Club meets.
There are a number of Speedster replica owners in Sussex and we manage to get a handful parked up together at a few events – always happy to meet more. If you want to hook up at an event, or want to know more about the car drop me an email at redroofspeedster@gmail.com James (jim73vw)'
