When you think of an off-road Porsche 911, the 911 Dakar is probably the first model that comes to mind. But there’s another extraordinary off-road 911—one developed by a tuning company. It’s been popping up on social media more often lately, so let’s take a closer look.

What Is the MARSIEN? The Spirit of the 959, Reborn

The MARSIEN is a special car developed by Marc Philipp Gemballa GmbH, led by Marc Philipp Gemballa, son of the late Uwe Gemballa, the legendary Porsche tuner. Based on the latest Porsche 911 Turbo S (992 generation), it’s a high-performance model engineered for serious off-road driving. Its name comes from the French word for “Martian,” inspired by test drives among the UAE’s red dunes.

Photo by Marc Philipp Gemballa

The project brings the spirit of the Porsche 959—an icon that competed in the Paris-Dakar Rally in the 1980s—into the modern era. When the MARSIEN was unveiled in 2021, production was announced at just 40 cars worldwide. All 40 reportedly sold out shortly after the announcement. The conversion alone was priced at €495,000, with the 911 Turbo S donor car costing extra. That puts the estimated total at more than ¥80 million in Japan.

By combining supercar performance with serious off-road capability, the MARSIEN is a one-of-a-kind machine that has captured the attention of Porsche owners around the world.

Cutting-Edge Technology for Outstanding Performance

At its heart is the 3.8-liter twin-turbo flat-six from the Porsche 992-generation 911 Turbo S, enhanced with special tuning by RUF. In its standard configuration, it produces more than 750 hp and 930 Nm of torque. An optional Stage 2 upgrade boosts output to as much as 830 hp. The gains come from upgrades including larger turbochargers and optimized engine management.

Power is delivered through Porsche’s eight-speed PDK transmission and all-wheel-drive system.

Photo by Marc Philipp Gemballa

Another standout feature is the innovative suspension system developed in collaboration with KW Automotive. The front suspension has been changed to a double-wishbone setup—an unusual choice for a 911—and works with electronically controlled dampers. With the push of a button, ride height can be adjusted from 120 mm for regular driving to a maximum of 250 mm.

Alongside Porsche’s standard on-road settings, the MARSIEN offers dedicated modes for gravel, mud, sand, and snow. Each mode optimizes engine response and transmission control to help maintain traction across changing surfaces. The bespoke engineering extends down to details such as a specialized air filter to keep out dust and an Akrapovič titanium exhaust.

Photo by Marc Philipp Gemballa

Distinctive Design with a Functional Purpose

The MARSIEN’s exterior was designed by French designer Alan Derosier, blending a futuristic look with the DNA of the 959. More than 85 carbon-fiber components make up its bodywork, helping it shed around 50 kg compared with a standard 911 Turbo S. The large air intakes, wide fenders, and rear wing integrated into the engine cover are all made from carbon fiber, balancing aerodynamic performance with reduced weight.

Two sets of wheels come standard, so the car can be equipped for different driving conditions.

Photo by Marc Philipp Gemballa

For on-road use, the MARSIEN gets Michelin ultra-high-performance tires; for off-road driving, it comes with all-terrain tires. Both sets use center-lock forged aluminum wheels, finished with details such as 24-karat gold crests on the center caps. Inside, sumptuous leather and Alcantara are paired with distinctive touches, including a Carrera GT-inspired carbon-fiber high center console and strap-style door handles.

Stunning Performance and Off-Road Capability

The MARSIEN challenges conventional ideas of what a supercar can do. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 330 km/h. Those figures rival the standard 911 Turbo S, with little apparent compromise in performance despite the added hardware for off-road use. But the MARSIEN’s real distinction lies in its remarkable ability to tackle rough terrain.

During development, the car was reportedly tested in a wide range of conditions, from the Nürburgring Nordschleife to Middle Eastern deserts and frozen landscapes in northern Europe. Its adjustable suspension delivers up to 250 mm of ground clearance, while standard skid plates help protect it over demanding terrain such as rocky trails and dunes. The dedicated drive modes are designed to maintain traction on slippery surfaces and in deep sand.

Footage of the MARSIEN driving in the desert, filmed by the UK’s Top Gear, puts its off-road ability on full display. The ambitious idea of a 750-hp, off-road-ready Porsche may sound improbable—but the MARSIEN makes a compelling case for it.