MAKING A MODERN PORSCHE FIT INSIDE A CLASSIC 356

In this episode, we continue the massive challenge of making a modern Porsche 718 platform work underneath the iconic shape of a classic Porsche 356. This isn’t just a body swap — we’re trying to engineer a one-off Porsche properly. With Jim still in the workshop, we continue designing and fabricating key components for the safety cage, while also working through one of the most important structural areas of the build: the front load path from the suspension into the body structure. Jim brings a lifetime of automotive design, engineering, drafting and coachbuilding experience to the project, helping us think through the car like a manufacturer would — not just as a custom build, but as a properly engineered structure. We look at how the roll cage ties into the chassis, how the front suspension loads need to be managed, and why the hidden structure underneath the skin is just as important as making the car look like a Porsche 356 from the outside. After Jim leaves, Anthony and I continue building the components he helped us design, turning the ideas, measurements and workshop discussions into real fabricated parts. This build is about combining old-school coachbuilding, modern scanning and measuring, sheet metal fabrication, structural design, and a deep respect for the original 356 shape — while using the performance foundation of a modern Porsche. If you’re into Porsche restoration, custom fabrication, automotive design, metal shaping, engineering, roll cages, or just watching an impossible idea slowly become real, this one is for you. In this episode: Designing and fabricating the Porsche safety cage Engineering the front structural load path Making modern Porsche suspension work inside a classic body Jim mentoring us through the design and fabrication process Building the components after Jim leaves Combining automotive design studio thinking with real workshop fabrication Continuing the one-off Porsche 356 / 718 build This project is one of the biggest challenges we’ve ever taken on: fitting a modern Porsche underneath a classic Porsche 356 shell while keeping the soul, silhouette and character of the original car. We’re not just trying to make it fit, We’re trying to make it work properly. Support the build and get early access on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/Melomotive Tools, coatings and restoration products: https://www.melomotive.com/ #Porsche356 #PorscheBuild #CustomPorsche #PorscheRestoration #CarFabrication #MetalShaping #RollCage #AutomotiveDesign #Coachbuilding #Melomotive