- Kalmar has revealed a Safari-style conversion for the 997-generation Porsche 911
- Upgrades include Kevlar composite parts and a ride height that extends to over 8.0 inches
- Kalmar says it won’t develop Safari-style conversions for any 911 generation beyond the 997
Danish performance marque Kalmar, known for its bespoke Porsche 911 restomods, has introduced the RS-7, the latest addition to its lineup of off-road-ready 911s. This new model is based on the 997-generation Porsche 911 of the 2000s and incorporates lessons learned from Kalmar’s previous Safari-style builds.
Kalmar only recently entered the U.S. market, having launched last year through a partnership with California-based Porsche expert Canepa. The company is also known for its Beyond Adventure division, which organizes extreme off-road driving experiences and offers specially modified 911s and Cayennes for sale.
The idea of a lifted, off-road-capable 911 isn’t new—the Safari designation comes from the East African Safari Rallies in which Porsche 911s were entered during the 1970s, and Porsche itself recently revived the concept with the 992-generation 911 Dakar limited edition. However, Kalmar takes the formula further with significant modifications designed for extreme terrain.
The RS-7 features widened fender flares to accommodate off-road tires, larger front and rear openings to enhance cooling, and additional driving lights for improved visibility. Underneath, aluminum skid plates and other protective elements shield the car from rugged terrain, while lightweight Kevlar composite is used for certain body components to reduce weight.
Kalmar RS-7
Its suspension has been extensively reworked, featuring lengthened shock absorbers and dropped subframes to provide extra ground clearance. The setup is fully adjustable, with ride height extending to over eight inches at its highest setting. Unlike conventional 911s, the RS-7 eliminates anti-roll bars to allow greater independent wheel articulation, with active shocks controlling body roll instead.
Mechanically, Kalmar has kept the drivetrain largely stock for reliability and ease of maintenance. However, buyers can opt for performance upgrades. One included addition is a limited-slip rear differential paired with the 6-speed manual transmission, optimizing traction on loose surfaces like sand and snow.
The RS-7 conversion starts at 99,997 euros (approximately $103,800), not including the cost of the donor 911. Kalmar has also confirmed it will not develop Safari conversions for 911s beyond the 997-generation. According to the company, the 997 was the last 911 to feature an all-steel chassis, making it easier to modify and repair in remote locations. More recent generations utilize complex multi-material construction with bonded aluminum and steel, which are more challenging to repair in off-road conditions.
“It must be possible to fix a Safari car with a hammer and a welder when you are somewhere in the middle of nowhere, and many race teams running the newer versions have learned the nice stiff chassis cracks easily with even relatively small impacts,” said company founder Jan Kalmar.
