Canepa reimagines an icon: the first Porsche Carrera GT Sport Canepa (SC) has been unveiled
09/03/2026
Some cars are so iconic that they almost feel untouchable.
Yet there will always be specialists willing to reinterpret even the most legendary machines. California-based Porsche expert Canepa has revealed its latest project during the prestigious Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance: the Porsche Carrera GT Sport Canepa, better known as the Carrera GT SC.
The philosophy behind the project is simple: preserve one of the most legendary supercars ever built by Porsche, while subtly improving certain elements with modern technology and bespoke personalization.
Liquid Metal Green: a color Porsche never offered
The first example, chassis #01, is finished in a striking shade called Liquid Metal Green. Interestingly, this color was never offered on the original Carrera GT, yet it fits remarkably well with the sculptural lines of the V10 supercar.
To achieve the level of finish Canepa is known for, the entire vehicle was completely disassembled. All body panels were removed to allow for a concours-level paint restoration.
Several subtle design changes also modernize the appearance. The air intakes and engine mesh are now painted in body color, creating a cleaner and more integrated look. The engine bay features matte carbon elements, while details such as the headlight bezels and exhaust surrounds are finished in gloss black.
An interior combining luxury and motorsport
Inside, Canepa created a completely new interior trimmed in cream leather and Alcantara, carefully matched to the exclusive exterior paint.
The result stays faithful to the minimalist philosophy of the original Carrera GT, while adding a more refined and modern touch.
The exposed carbon roll hoops remain visible, emphasizing the car’s motorsport DNA. The wheels also feature anodized black center locks, adding a subtle performance-inspired detail.
Modern technology for a better driving experience
Although the original Carrera GT was already known for its raw driving experience, Canepa wanted to improve everyday usability without changing the car’s core character.
The car now features updated KW suspension with an integrated lift system, making it significantly easier to drive over speed bumps or steep driveways. The exhaust system has also been upgraded to enhance both sound and performance from the naturally aspirated 5.7-liter V10.
Another key update is the revised clutch system, designed to improve durability and drivability. The original Carrera GT was famously known for its demanding clutch behavior, which made it less forgiving for some drivers.
Exact performance figures have not been disclosed, but the upgrades appear focused on refining the driving experience rather than radically altering it.
AutoNext Take: restomods for modern supercars?
The concept of a restomod is usually associated with classic cars from the 1960s and 1970s. Seeing a car from the early 2000s receive the same treatment is quite interesting.
But the Porsche Carrera GT is far from an ordinary supercar. With its naturally aspirated V10, six-speed manual gearbox, and extremely limited production numbers, it has already become one of the most desirable modern classics.
However, Canepa appears to strike the right balance. The changes are subtle, technically meaningful, and visually respectful to the original design.
With chassis #01 now unveiled, this project is clearly just getting started. According to Canepa, a second Carrera GT SC is already in development.
