Porsche is celebrating its 70th anniversary today
and the company gave itself one heck of a birthday present – the 911 Speedster
concept. Designed to capture the brand’s “essence,” the 911 Speedster concept
is a one-off model that “offers a glimpse of a potential series-production
version.” That’s a bit disingenuous, as we’ve already seen spy photos of the
production model, but Porsche suggested the road-going car won’t be unveiled
until 2019.
Getting back to the concept itself, Porsche says the
model features a shorter and more rakish windscreen which is reminiscent of the
356 1500 Speedster. The concept also has a carbon fiber rear cover featuring a
double bubble design that hides the roll-over protection structure. The humps
are connected by a floating third brake light which illuminates “Porsche”
lettering.
Besides the unique rear end, the Speedster features
a lightweight tonneau cover instead of a traditional convertible roof.
Designers also installed a carbon fiber composite hood and a number of
retro-inspired components such as the exterior mirrors and the “50s-style
central fuel tank cap.”
Moving into the cabin, drivers will find carbon
fiber bucket seats wrapped in Cognac leather upholstery. Other highlights include
Speedster badging on the dashboard and Cognac leather door pull straps.
In an effort to save weight, the infotainment system
has been eliminated and replaced by a large empty space in the center stack.
The air conditioning system has also been removed and there’s minimalist
touches throughout the cabin.
While much of the bodywork is shared with the 911
Carrera 4 Cabriolet, Porsche says the chassis essentially carries over from the
911 GT3. As a result, the concept has a flat-six engine that develops over 500
hp.
Porsche was coy on additional information but
confirmed the car has a titanium exhaust system and 21-inch center-locking
wheels with a Fuchs design.
