02 Mar 05
A Cayenne too common? Or not aggressive-looking enough? Besides the Senso concept car, Swiss prototype-builder and tuner Rinspeed has launched the Chopster production car at the Geneva Motor Show. Developed in partnership with engineering group EDAG, the Chopster is based on the Porsche Cayenne, but modified almost beyond recognition. Its roof has been cut down by 70mm, and a full body kit - including huge wheel arches, side skirts and bumper flares - fitted; the engine, with turbochargers and intercoolers, develops 610bhp and 800Nm of torque (the standard Cayenne Turbo gives 450bhp). Tuned by BS0 2001, the powertrain features a completely reengineered exhaust system, new high-performance catalysts, new water-cooled intercoolers, modified turbochargers and a reprogrammed ECU. Brakes have also been upgraded.
The Chopster sits on 23-inch wheels with 315/25 tyres. On the inside, it has four separate sports seats - buyers can choose from Cobras or Recaros - and a unique centre console with DVD player, Sony PS2 console and Blaupunkt stereo, though a full build-to-order customization service will be offered. Production will start (to order) in April 2005, and prices will start at 325,000 euros.
