The Vehicle
Vehicle: 1965 Porsche Spyder (Aluminium Body)
Project Type: Suspension Setup & Steering Geometry
Services Provided:
- Suspension assessment
- Corner weight optimisation
- Steering geometry setup
- Camber adjustment
- Toe alignment
- Chassis development advice
Customer Requirements
The owner wanted to ensure the Porsche handled as well as it looked by having the suspension professionally set up.
The objective was to achieve the best possible balance, predictable handling and improved chassis performance while working within the design of the vehicle.
Initial Suspension Assessment
Every suspension setup begins with a detailed inspection of the vehicle.
After assessing the Porsche’s chassis and suspension, we carried out a complete geometry setup, including:
- Corner weight distribution
- Front and rear camber adjustment
- Toe alignment
- Overall chassis balance
These adjustments ensured the vehicle was correctly aligned and performing as well as possible with its existing suspension configuration.
Identifying the Limitation
During the setup process, it became clear that the rear suspension design limited the amount of toe adjustment available.
Because the vehicle was fitted with fixed rear suspension arms, it was not possible to achieve the ideal rear toe settings required for optimum chassis balance.
Rather than simply accepting the compromise, we discussed the limitation with the owner and recommended upgrading to adjustable rear trailing arms. This would provide the adjustment range needed to fully optimise the rear suspension geometry.
Completing the Setup
Following our recommendation, the customer installed adjustable rear trailing arms before returning the vehicle to Kent Motorsport for a second suspension setup.
With the new components in place, we were able to accurately adjust the rear toe settings and complete the geometry setup without the restrictions imposed by the original suspension.
The additional adjustability allowed the chassis to be balanced more precisely, ensuring all suspension settings worked together as a complete package.
Why It Matters
Suspension geometry is often influenced by the components fitted to the vehicle.
Even the most accurate alignment equipment cannot compensate for mechanical limitations within the suspension itself.
By identifying these restrictions and recommending the appropriate upgrades, we were able to help the customer unlock the full potential of the Porsche’s chassis rather than settling for a compromise.
This project highlights the value of a professional suspension assessment—not only making adjustments, but understanding when component changes are required to achieve the best possible result.
The Result
Following the installation of the adjustable rear trailing arms and the final suspension setup, the Porsche’s handling characteristics were significantly improved.
The vehicle now benefits from:
- Optimised corner weight distribution
- Correct front and rear geometry
- Improved rear axle adjustment
- Better chassis balance
- More predictable handling
Most importantly, the owner now has a beautifully prepared Porsche Spyder that performs as impressively as it looks.
Related Services
Kent Motorsport provides suspension setup and chassis optimisation services for:
- Classic sports cars
- Performance road cars
- Track day vehicles
- Race cars
- Historic competition cars
Our services include:
- Suspension setup
- Steering geometry
- Corner weighting
- Chassis optimisation
- Performance suspension upgrades
Whether you’re refining a historic sports car or developing a dedicated competition vehicle, we can help you achieve the best possible balance, handling and driver confidence.
Looking to improve your vehicle’s handling? Contact Kent Motorsport to discuss your suspension setup and chassis development requirements.
