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The 2004 Rinspeed Porsche Cayenne Chopster was a bold and avant-garde transformation of the Porsche Cayenne platform by Swiss design house Rinspeed. Known for their innovative and often unconventional vehicle designs, Rinspeed created the Chopster as a striking reinterpretation of the luxury SUV, combining high-performance engineering with radical aesthetic alterations.
The defining feature of the Chopster was its lowered roofline, achieved through a meticulous "chop" process inspired by the American custom car culture of modifying vehicles to have a more aggressive stance. This modification involved reducing the height of the A-, B-, C-, and D-pillars by approximately 150 millimeters (6 inches) and redesigning all glass panels to fit the new proportions. The structural rigidity of the roof was recalculated to ensure safety and performance. Additionally, Rinspeed eliminated the Cayenne's rear doors, transforming it into a rare three-door SUV. The result was a compact and muscular profile that exuded power and dynamic intent.
The exterior design of the Chopster was further enhanced by a completely reworked front end, characterized by large air ducts that gave the vehicle a distinctive and aggressive look. The widened fenders and redesigned side sills contributed to the car’s athletic appearance, while the upgraded rear seamlessly integrated into the overall aesthetic. Massive 23-inch wheels wrapped in 305-mm tires completed the visual transformation, filling the flared wheel arches with authority.
Inside, the Chopster was as luxurious as it was sporty. The cabin featured four individual bucket seats for optimal lateral support, upholstered in the finest leather available. Rinspeed offered bespoke customization options, including carbon fiber or aluminum accents, to tailor the interior to the owner's preferences. A hidden integrated anti-roll bar was installed to ensure passenger safety without compromising the car’s sleek design. Despite its performance-oriented focus, the Chopster retained the comfort and luxury expected from a high-end SUV.
Under the hood, the Chopster was powered by a robust engine delivering an impressive 600 horsepower and 800 Nm of torque. This formidable output propelled the vehicle to a top speed of 290 km/h (180 mph) and enabled it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in under five seconds. Such performance made the Chopster not only a visual statement but also a driving powerhouse.
The exclusivity of the Chopster extended to its price, with costs ranging from €325,000 to €375,000, depending on the options selected. This limited-production vehicle was designed for those seeking a unique blend of performance, luxury, and unorthodox design. The 2004 Rinspeed Porsche Cayenne Chopster was a testament to Rinspeed's ability to push the boundaries of automotive design and create vehicles that stand apart from conventional offerings.