Tuthill Porsche is the world’s leading Porsche 911 rally workshop famous for classic 356’s and 911 restorations. We recently had the privilege of spending some time with Francis and the Tuthill team, the home of the truly amazing 911 Rally winners and Below Zero team
Firstly we have to make this absolutely clear, Francis Tuthill and the team are the epitome of engineering and quality excellence. It is not an understatement to say that when you think of English engineering and innovation, this team truly contributes to the word ‘great' in Great Britain. I’m sure mere words won’t do them justice but we do hope to give you a little glimpse of what we mean..
As we turned off the motorway and onto a leafy country road we could see the signs for Tuthill. The picturesque grounds are an amazing space as the view opens up in front of you. Early century architecture is juxtaposed against the latest contemporary building that is a clear visual linking history and tradition, welcomed by a 930 in black and one of the Rally cars being tested on the day.
Part of what we believe makes the essence of what they do so special is the environment and the sense of family. These are not quantifiable elements at all but add soul to the place and the cars being built.
As we walked in to say hello we were kindly greeted by 2 of Francis’s grandchildren skating around a stunning collection of cars on display and being worked on. Beaming smiles offered to find Granddad and off they skated...oh to be a kid again.
Francis was found in one of the old workshops located at the back of the facility sorting through pile of vintage Porsche and VW parts they had just acquired. ‘Pile' might not be a fair description, it was sea containers worth of parts, everywhere, all being itemized and put into stock for when they might be needed for a project or some fun.
Francis and his shadow, a beautiful Labrador, then proceeded to provide us with the tour of a lifetime. Looking through old sea containers with old VW Beetles that had been used on African Rally events, striped down 911’s for concept projects, an old 356 Speedster being restored and cars at all stages of the build.
The craftsmanship is astounding which has been mastered over years of practice and competing. If it breaks or doesn’t do what you want in an event then build it better. No corners cut..build better and be better. Everywhere you turn you can see the years, months, days and hours of effort, sweat and we assume a few tears that have been invested.
After the tour through the new facility we walked over to the workshop where it all started and where Francis now works with a small team including an apprentice (would be nice to see what this apprentice is doing in 10 years time). This is where it all started and it’s amazing to have this history right next door to the new facility as a reminder of the past, present and future.
I honestly don’t think we blinked once during our time there or asked many questions as were we just amazed and in awe. Francis is a wonderful human being and a true gentleman only amplified by his humble nature considering his status, and is such a pleasure to be around.
As Francis left us to help with a community event they were organizing (again a credit to him, the family and team), we took our last look around the facility and said our goodbyes.
If we ever get the opportunity to go back, we will take a bean bag and donuts and just sit and chat and watch the amazing work all day! Perfect.
We were at Goodwood Festival of Speed a couple of days before and this trip to see Francis blew it out of the water.
www.tuthillporsche.com
Francis visited Perth earlier in the year and a small group got together for a casual meet and greet. We were lucky to be included in the invitation…
