Porsche Passion Unveiled: Hagerty Explores Filipino Car Culture

In this episode of Hagerty, the team embarks on a Porsche odyssey in the Philippines, diving deep into the country's obsession with all things Porsche, from water-cooled to air-cooled masterpieces. They uncover the allure of RWB air-cooled 993s, with a special focus on a meticulously crafted 993 Turbo RWB boasting carbon ceramic brakes that scream performance. The journey takes them to a garage housing a jaw-dropping collection of Porsches, including a rare 964 Turbo S lightweight and the legendary last air-cooled Porsche, the 993 RS. The team delves into the history and uniqueness of each model, shedding light on their Japanese origins and the owner's savvy investment choices before the Porsche market skyrocketed.

Amidst the humid Philippine climate, the team finds solace in a climate-controlled Porsche sanctuary, where they discuss the significance of these automotive gems within the Filipino car culture. They stumble upon a surprising connection when Hagerty discovers his signed print from a magazine cover shoot, adding a personal touch to the already exhilarating adventure. Alfredo's generous offer allows Hagerty to get behind the wheel of the iconic 993 RSR, the ultimate air-cooled Porsche marvel that exudes raw power and nostalgia. The exploration extends to the collector's main house and gym, showcasing a tasteful display of photos and cars that reflect a true passion for automotive artistry.

Venturing further, the team visits a unique five-story house reminiscent of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway pagoda, where limited edition Porsches stand as art pieces in an open living space. The spotlight shifts to Garage 2233 in the Philippines, where the meticulous restoration of a 993 and 964 takes center stage. Hagerty's test drive of the 993 RSR and the 964 twin turbo reveals the heart and soul poured into these restomods, emphasizing performance upgrades, carbon components, and a functional design philosophy that blends tradition with modern innovation. The team celebrates the craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the owner's personal touches that elevate these Porsches to automotive masterpieces in the heart of the Philippines.