Theon Design Marks Decade with 500bhp 'R' Prototype and US Expansion

Key points

• Theon Design is marking its 10th anniversary with the release of the 'R' model, described as an ultra-high-performance variant with over 500bhp and a kerb weight under 1,000kg.
• The company also unveiled a standard Coupe build featuring a 419bhp 4.0-litre flat-six, carbon-fibre bodywork, and a 0-60mph time of 4.0 seconds.
• To facilitate global sales, Theon launched an online configurator for its Coupe, Targa, and R models, along with a US-based concierge service operated by Humble House.
• Pricing for the base Coupe starts at £435,000, while the flagship 'R' model begins at £950,000, positioning it as a premium alternative to multi-million-pound competitors like Singer.

Background

Theon Design, founded by Adam Hawley and Lucinda Argy, has spent the last decade transforming 964-generation Porsche 911s into bespoke restomods. The company is known for its meticulous approach to lightweighting and preserving the original 964's design integrity while updating mechanicals. This milestone follows previous high-profile builds, such as the GBR002, and precedes the full production rollout of the extreme 'R' variant.

How outlets are covering it

Top Gear emphasizes the 'R' model's supercar-level performance, highlighting its 500bhp output and sub-tonne weight as a benchmark for air-cooled performance. Autoweek and Motor1 focus on the technical specifics of the standard Coupe, noting the 419bhp engine and 2,535-pound weight, while also detailing the new US market entry strategy. Wallpaper* highlights the design philosophy, stressing that Theon aims to elevate the 964's original character rather than merely modernizing it, and notes the extensive customization options available through the new configurator. All sources agree on the high price point, with Top Gear noting the £950,000 starting price for the 'R' and others citing the £435,000 base for the Coupe.

Why it matters

The launch of the 'R' model and the expansion into the US market signal Theon Design's ambition to compete directly with other high-end restomod specialists like Singer and Gunther Werks. The introduction of an online configurator and local US support lowers the barrier to entry for international buyers, potentially broadening the customer base for this niche, high-cost segment of the automotive market.

What to watch

The first customer 'R' model is currently under construction and expected to roll out soon. Theon Design will likely see increased demand as the online configurator and US concierge service make the commissioning process more accessible to American buyers. Future developments may include further refinements to the 'R' platform and potential new model variants as the company continues to grow its global presence.