Apple CEO John Ternus Owns Rare Porsche 935

John Ternus, the Head of Product Design at Apple Inc., has been identified as a significant automotive enthusiast with a particular affinity for high-performance vehicles. Ternus reportedly owns one of the rarest and most powerful Porsche models ever produced: a Porsche 935. This specific model is a modern interpretation of the iconic 1970s racing car, built by Porsche's GT division. The current iteration of the Porsche 935, introduced in 2018, is a track-only machine based on the 911 GT2 RS, but heavily re-engineered for racing. It features a twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter flat-six engine that produces approximately 700 horsepower. The car's design draws heavily from the original 1970s 935 'Moby Dick' with its distinctive aerodynamic elements, including a long tail and a massive rear wing.

Reports indicate that Ternus frequently takes his 700-horsepower Porsche 935 to the renowned Laguna Seca race track. At this iconic circuit, known for its challenging 'Corkscrew' turn, Ternus has allegedly achieved lap times under 1 minute and 40 seconds. Such lap times are indicative of a highly skilled driver and a finely tuned machine, placing him among serious track enthusiasts. The Porsche 935 is an extremely limited-production vehicle, with only 77 units manufactured worldwide. Its exclusivity and performance capabilities make it a coveted item among collectors and motorsport aficionados. The car's price upon release was reported to be around €700,000 (approximately $777,000 USD at the time).

This revelation about Ternus's personal interests adds a new dimension to his public persona, highlighting a passion for engineering and performance that extends beyond his role at Apple. As Head of Product Design, Ternus oversees the development of Apple's hardware products, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs, where meticulous attention to detail, cutting-edge technology, and performance are paramount. His involvement in the design and engineering of consumer electronics, coupled with his apparent expertise in operating a high-performance race car, suggests a deep appreciation for complex systems and their capabilities. The Porsche 935 itself is a testament to advanced automotive engineering, featuring sophisticated aerodynamics, a powerful engine, and advanced chassis dynamics, all of which require a nuanced understanding to operate effectively at high speeds.

The ownership of such a rare and powerful vehicle by a key figure in one of the world's leading technology companies underscores a broader trend of executives and innovators in the tech industry having diverse and often high-octane personal interests. While Apple is primarily known for its consumer electronics, the company's internal culture and the personal lives of its leadership can offer insights into the broader mindset driving innovation. The connection between Ternus's role in designing products that are central to modern life and his engagement with a pinnacle of automotive engineering demonstrates a potential synergy between different fields of advanced design and performance. The specific details of his lap times at Laguna Seca, a track frequented by professional racers and serious amateur drivers, further emphasize the serious nature of his automotive pursuits.