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Key Takeaways:
- Ron Goodman, the owner of Sydney’s Exclusive Body Werks, is renowned for his iconic Porsche builds, driven by his exceptional attention to detail and relentless dedication.
- His 1954 Porsche 356 pre-A and 1966 906 Carrera 6, both painted in his signature ‘Goodman Grey’, stand as testament to his craftsmanship and were showcased at WTAC 2022.
- The 1954 Porsche 356 pre-A holds a record for breaking a 12-year-old lap record at Mount Panorama by 33 seconds, while the 1966 906 Carrera 6 was built from the chassis up, right in Australia.
- His innovative builds, including the unique ‘Aero 356’ featuring a three-cylinder radial engine, make him a standout figure in the automotive world.
- ‘Goodman Grey’, a unique paint color offered by auto paint brand Glasurit, further solidifies Ron’s iconic status in the automotive sector.
Ron Goodman: The Maestro Behind the Machines
Every once in a while, an individual comes along who redefines the conventions of their field. In the world of Porsche restorations and custom builds, that individual is Ron Goodman. The mastermind behind Sydney’s Exclusive Body Werks, Goodman is synonymous with premium Porsche builds, driven by an uncompromising dedication to detail that has won him accolades and admiration in the automotive world. His work has not only revolutionized how we look at Porsches, but it has also set a new benchmark for car restoration and customization.
Two of Goodman’s most remarkable Porsche builds – the 1954 Porsche 356 pre-A and the 1966 906 Carrera 6 – were on full display at the World Time Attack Challenge (WTAC) 2022, presenting attendees with a first-hand look at Goodman’s unique style and unswerving dedication to his craft.
The Star: 1954 Porsche 356 pre-A
One of Goodman’s most celebrated works is the stunning 1954 Porsche 356 pre-A. This car was the star of the award-winning documentary “The Road to Monterey,” which chronicled Goodman’s dream to bring the 356 Coupe to the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at the iconic Laguna Seca Raceway. Besides its international fame, the car also holds bragging rights at home in Bathurst, where it shattered a 12-year-old lap record by 33 seconds during its debut at Mount Panorama.
With a high-performing four-cylinder 1600 motor constructed meticulously within Group S specs, this 356 pre-A often raises eyebrows regarding its true power. Yet Goodman modestly attributes any skepticism to the unparalleled level of work poured into this masterpiece.
The Phoenix: 1966 906 Carrera 6
The 1966 906 Carrera 6 was a labor of love for Goodman, who purchased the car in a half-complete state and painstakingly sourced components to build it from the chassis up. Painted in Goodman’s signature grey with vibrant green accents, the finished product is a testament to his dedication, creativity, and meticulousness. The 906 Carrera 6, with its six-cylinder, two-liter motor churning out a robust 220HP for its mere 580kg frame, represents a phenomenal achievement in lightweight, high-performance automotive engineering.
The Signature: Goodman Grey
A significant part of Goodman’s identity in the automotive world is his unique color palette, particularly his signature ‘Goodman Grey.’ The color, which has its roots in a ground coat initially intended for a red finish, was a happy accident. It is now officially recognized and offered by the auto paint brand Glasurit, a testament to Goodman’s influence in the industry. Whether on the racetrack or in a car show, a Goodman Grey Porsche is instantly recognizable and widely appreciated.
The Innovator: Aero 356
Goodman’s knack for innovation is nowhere more apparent than in his ‘Aero 356.’ This car, also finished in Goodman Grey, is more than just a unique build – it’s a testament to Goodman’s audacity and creativity. Equipped with a three-cylinder radial engine, typically found in aircraft, and featuring an interior heavily influenced by the no-nonsense design of a fighter jet, the Aero 356 is a shining example of Goodman’s out-of-the-box thinking and his relentless pursuit of automotive excellence.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Ron Goodman
Ron Goodman’s name has become synonymous with Porsche excellence. His meticulous attention to detail, unwavering dedication to his craft, and ability to push the boundaries of conventional automotive design have earned him a well-deserved reputation in the industry.
His builds, from the record-breaking 1954 Porsche 356 pre-A to the painstakingly restored 1966 906 Carrera 6, exemplify Goodman’s unique talent and relentless drive. And his signature ‘Goodman Grey’ finish has further solidified his iconic status within the automotive sector.
Through his work, Goodman has not only elevated the craft of car restoration and custom building, but he has also breathed new life into classic Porsche models, allowing these timeless machines to continue making their mark in motorsports and beyond. Witnessing a Goodman creation, whether on the race track or on display, is an experience that no car enthusiast should miss.
