Triebwerk is the North American presence of Das Triebwerk DTW — a German boxer engine manufaktur and custom builder based in Schwelm, Germany, founded in 2017 by entrepreneur Stephan Rohleder and master technician Christian Wilms. The company specializes in the highest level of Porsche 911 backdating, transforming 964-generation cars into purist interpretations of the early F-model 911, combined with modern engineering developed entirely in-house. Individuality is their DNA — no two builds are the same.

Backdating takes a later-generation Porsche 911 — in Triebwerk's case, a 964 from the early 1990s — and returns it to the visual character of the classic 1970s F-model, while simultaneously improving on what's underneath. What separates Triebwerk from other builders is the depth of the work: every body component is fabricated from 100% steel sheet metal using deep-draw tooling produced in-house — no fiberglass, no shortcuts. The front and rear sections are fully redesigned, front and rear carriers are swapped for original F-model parts, and even the pop-out windows on the coupe are reinstated. Each build requires close to 2,000 hours of skilled manual labor. The engine is developed in cooperation with Swiss specialists Eggenberger Motorenbau AG, with displacements from 3.6 to 4.3 liters, custom single-throttle intake systems, and fully programmable engine management — all built and validated on Triebwerk's own test benches.

Yes — every Triebwerk is a bespoke commission. The process starts with a detailed specification sheet covering both technical and aesthetic preferences: engine displacement (F3.5 through F4.3), gearbox setup, paint color, interior materials, and optional features ranging from an aluminum hood and retractable ducktail to a custom exhaust, Bilstein-tuned suspension, and Brembo braking systems. Clients are brought into the build throughout — ideas evolve in real time, and transparency is a founding principle of the company. Everything is produced from a single source: bodywork, engine, exhaust, throttle bodies, wheels, and even the in-car sound system are all designed and built within the Triebwerk workshop. The motto is straightforward: if it's technically possible, they'll build it.

Triebwerk made its US debut at Air|Water on April 25, 2026 in Costa Mesa, CA. On display was F4.3 — the most powerful and fully realized expression of the Triebwerk backdating program. Built around a 4.3-liter air-cooled flat-six producing 398 hp and 405 Nm of torque, the F4.3 represents over seven years of in-house prototyping distilled into a single car. Air|Water marked the first opportunity for American enthusiasts to experience Triebwerk's craftsmanship up close.