Words and Photos by Zach Katz
This past weekend I was lucky enough to attend one of the largest automotive events on the East Coast. Dream Ride, run by the Hometown Foundation and hosted by the Farmington Polo Grounds in Farmington, Connecticut, attracts hundreds of rare and exotic cars from all makes and models. There is always an incredible turnout of rare or unique Porsches and I would like to share my top 5 from this year’s Dream Ride event.
The Dream Ride Experience, hosted by The Hometown Foundation, is a fundraising event that brings together thousands of people, including motorcyclists, car enthusiasts, and supporters from around the world, to celebrate and support Special Olympics athletes and individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, known as Dream Riders.
Held in Farmington, Connecticut, the weekend features live music, food, vendors, and family-friendly activities, including the Saturday Dream Ride, a 40-mile police-escorted motorcycle tour, and the Dream Cruise, a 17-mile escorted drive pairing drivers of classic and exotic cars with Dream Riders who get to sit in one of the unique vehicles.
The event culminates on Sunday with the Dream Show, the largest cause-related car show on the East Coast. Beyond a motorcycle ride and car show, the Dream Ride Experience showcases a Pet Adoption Center, live entertainment, a Police K-9 Challenge, a Chili Cook-Off, and more.
Over the years, the event has grown into a year-round movement advocating for inclusion and building friendships.
Guntherwerks Speedster
For those who appreciate a blend of classic design and modern engineering, the Guntherwerks Speedster was the ultimate highlight. This bespoke build transforms the beloved 993-generation Porsche 911 into a high-performance masterpiece. The Speedster’s carbon fiber body, combined with red accents, exudes a menacing yet elegant aura.
The craftsmanship and attention to minute detail are evident in every curve, from the wide fenders to the sleek, open-top profile. With upgraded suspension, brakes, and engine components, this Speedster offers a driving experience that is both exhilarating and uniquely personal.
Porsche 911 Dakar
Having only seen one 911 Dakar before this event, seeing another was on my itinerary for this automotive season. Luckily for me, Dream Ride provided. This specific Dakar caught my attention quicker than the other couple who were also present. A nod to Porsche’s rich motorsport history, this 911 Dakar was finished in classic blue, white, red, and gold to pay homage to the historic Rothman’s liveries of the past. This specific Dakar was by far one of the event’s most eye-catching Porsches. The off-road-ready 911 combines modern technology with a classic look, paying tribute to the legendary Porsche rally cars of the 1980s. Its elevated suspension, off-road tires, and rally lights give it a unique presence, making it a head-turner and an enthusiast’s dream.
918 Spyder
The 918 Spyder needs no introduction. A member of the Holy Trinity of hybrid hypercars of the 2010s with its sleek, stealthy appearance and hybrid powertrain that delivers a staggering 887 horsepower, this hypercar is as much a feat of engineering as it is a work of art. This specific 918 may have been overshadowed this weekend, as it was directly next to a bright blue Ferrari SF90 on shiny BBS aftermarket wheels and three Bugatti Chirons that most young enthusiasts flock to.
Personally, the 918 is my favorite of the trio of 918, P1, and LaFerrari. Just as any time you get the opportunity to see a 918 up close, you are truly impressed.
GT2 RS Clubsport
The GT2 RS Clubsport is quite rare and explicitly designed to set track records. Its aggressive aerodynamics, massive rear wing, and striking red paint job make it an unmistakable presence on the tarmac and under Dream Ride’s Audrain Museum display tent this weekend. The Clubsport is built with weight savings in mind, stripping away anything unnecessary to provide a raw, unfiltered driving experience. Seeing this car up close and being able to examine each meticulous detail included to make the car faster, was a treat for anyone passionate about motorsport.
992 GT3 RS
Another standout at the event was this beautiful brand-new 992 GT3 RS. Known for its exceptional handling and track prowess, those lucky enough to get their hands on one have not disappointed with its unique and tasteful specs. It balances form and function perfectly with a subtle and sleek grey finish, accentuated by silver accents and carbon pieces.
The car’s interior boasted a mix of Alcantara, carbon fiber, and leather, providing a luxurious yet performance-oriented feel. Its naturally aspirated engine delivers an exhilarating driving experience, making it a favorite among purists.