Having sold some 40 million records worldwide, Hall & Oates are considered the world’s best-selling music duo in history. What many fans don’t know is that celebrated guitarist/vocalist/composer John Oates is also a long-time Porsche fan. Oates contacted Emory Motorsports Founder Rod Emory about creating a one-of-a-kind classic Porsche.

“When people hear custom, their minds tend to go to the outrageous, but our work is all about restraint,” explains Emory. “John’s 356 is perfect example. The body began life as a 1960 356B Cabriolet, which has a removable hard top. We replaced the car’s damaged nose with 356A-style bodywork, but leaned it back for a sleeker appearance. We also modified the windshield frame the same way. The removable hard top was tailored to create a more streamlined roof profile, and we integrated body-hugging 356A-style bumpers.”

Power is supplied by the new Emory-Rothsport “Outlaw-4” engine. Emory collaborated with Porsche GT racing team crew chief Jeff Gamroth of Rothsport Racing to create an all-new air-cooled four-cylinder engine block, based on the dry-sump Porsche 3.6L Type 964 engine. Custom cam housings, camshafts, and crankshafts are designed to work with OE Porsche engine components.

Chassis modernizing was also part of the plan. Emory adapted early Porsche 911 independent rear suspension with custom-narrowed trailing arms. Adjustable Koni shocks control the ride. Handling is improved with a proprietary Emory four-wheel disc-brake system, which stops the 205/55ZR16 Pirelli P Zero Rosso tires on custom 15×6 billet alloy wheels. The wheels were powdercoated black and have mirror-polished hubs.

Oates worked directly with Emory to map out the interior cabin. Hydes cognac leather is showcased throughout. The Speedster-style seats received basketweave inserts. German square-weave carpet in is augmented by traditional rubber floormats. A removable rollbar was added in case Oates decides to track his 356.

Finished in Graphite Grey Metallic RM paint, Oates’ 1960 356 Emory Special has a few additional bespoke body modifications. These include a hood-handle delete, body-hugging bumpers, body-mounted driving lights, and a signature Emory reverse-louvered deck lid. The 200-horsepower car weighs 1,850 pounds.

John Oates debuted his Emory Special 356 in late October at an intimate party and private concert at the Porsche Experience Center in Atlanta as part of the marque’s 70th Anniversary celebration. For more information on Emory Motorsports visit EmoryMotorsports.com.