Peter Lyon
February 1, 2026
Boutique automotive coachbuilder Stärke Motor Company just announced the launch of its Stärke Gen 2 Speedster, the brand’s most advanced and refined Speedster yet. Available to order starting now, the Gen 2 Speedster combines classic styling with the modern features of the 2017-and-onward 718 platform. Enthusiasts can now enjoy the soul of a classic 1950s icon with the comfort, reliability, performance and safety of modern 21st century engineering.
Stärke sees itself as being at the forefront of the “classic car reimagined” movement, utilizing 3D scanning and Computer-Aided Design to create a custom body that fits precisely over a 718 chassis. Underneath this hand-sculpted body lies the option of either a 2.0-liter 300-horsepower turbocharged flat-four, 2.5-liter 350-horsepower turbocharged flat-four or 4.0-liter 394-horsepower naturally-aspirated flat-six, with the choice of a six-speed manual or a seven-speed paddle-shift transmission.
Virtually the entire drivetrain, suspension and crash structure are carried over directly from the 718, including all ADAS features (when optioned with the original exterior rearview mirrors). All modern interior features are retained, including heated seats and a heated steering wheel, full power accessories and a power soft top, ensuring the comfort and livability of a modern sports car.
Each Stärke Gen 2 Speedster is meticulously handcrafted to order, offering a level of customization that reflects each owner’s individual vision. During the design process, clients can choose virtually any exterior paint scheme, a variety of interior colors and materials, wheel designs, drivetrains and individual details to ensure that every part of the Speedster feels unique to them. No two Speedsters are alike.
“The Gen 2 Speedster represents the pinnacle of our design philosophy, delivering a fun classic Speedster experience without any of the classic car downsides,” said Seth Gortenburg, CEO of Stärke Motor Company. “I always admired the design of classics from the ‘50s and ‘60s and wanted to create a way to enjoy it with the everyday usability and drivability of a modern car. Our Speedster is for the enthusiast who wants something a little bit different from a typical resto-mod.”
CARLIST THOUGHTS
Stärke is currently accepting orders for the Gen 2 Speedster, with pricing starting at $135,000 if a donor car is supplied. A “hands-free” option is also available, starting at $189,000, in which Stärke will source the donor car. Speedsters typically can be delivered within six months, depending on specifications.
