This 1956 Porsche 356 A Is Prepared To Take On The Ice In Antarctica

Going around the world in a vehicle can be as challenging as it’s fun. Both you and the machine have to go through extreme stress, tackling tough terrains and unforgiving weather. 

But Renee Brinkerhoff, founder and rally driver at Valkyrie Racing, has been there and done that. In her trusty 1956 Porsche 356 A, she went around the globe to raise awareness for her charity to fight child trafficking. And now, Brinkerhoff and her Porsche will be setting off for Antarctica, arguably her most challenging pit stop to date. 

Her journey to the earth’s southernmost continent has been delayed by a good 18 months to completely re-engineer the 356 into the ultimate snow-and-ice-ready mobile. There are snow tracks on the rear for better traction and skis on the front, ensuring that the mass per square inch (or footprint) is under 4 percent to prevent the vehicle from sinking in. 

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So, the front skis will set the path for the rear axle, similar to how water flows through a course. But that isn’t the only change. The front and rear suspension systems have been reworked with a single-arm suspension with coil-over shock for improved stability. And last but not least, the flat-six has been re-engineered (details haven’t been shared) to cope with the challenging weather. 

Securing safety is of paramount importance on voyages like these, and some important additions to that end include a roll cage, a rear window exit option, temperature for the gearbox to detect overheating, and a provision for easy access to survival wear, water, and communication equipment.

At the time of writing, Brinkerhoff’s 356 is on the way to Union Glacier, Antarctica, from where the rally will be flagged off on December 5 if the weather permits. At ZigWheels, we would like to wish her the very best for this endeavour of a lifetime focused on a noble cause.