Porsche has released pricing along with new pictures
and a video of the 911 Speedster, following its debut at the New York Auto
Show. Designed to be a last hurrah for the 991, the 911 Speedster draws
inspiration from the 356 Speedster but has a modern powertrain sourced from the
911 GT3.
The naturally aspirated 4.0-liter six-cylinder boxer
engine produces 503 hp and 470 Nm of torque. It
is paired exclusively to a six-speed manual transmission which sends power to
the rear wheels via a mechanical locking rear differential. This setup enables
the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.0 seconds and onto a top
speed of 310 km/h.
Of course, the 911 Speedster is about more than just
performance and it features a unique design that incorporates a number of
components from other models. Among the highlights are a front apron borrowed
from the 911 GT3, a rear apron and spoiler from the 911 GT3 Touring and carbon
fiber wings from the 911 R.
The special touches don’t end there as the 911
Speedster has a carbon fiber hood, a unique front spoiler and Sport Design
mirrors which replace the Talbot mirrors from the 911 Speedster concept. The
model has also been equipped with a shorter windscreen and central locking
20-inch wheels which are backed up by ceramic composite brakes.
The most unique styling feature is the double-bubble
rear lid which is made from a single piece of carbon-fiber reinforced plastic.
Described as the “largest and most complex component” ever used on a road-going
model, the lid traces its origins to the 911 Speedster from 1988.
Buyers looking for something even more exclusive can
order a Heritage Design package. Porsche says it “reinterprets classic elements
from the 1950s and 1960s” as it features a GT silver metallic exterior with
white “spears” and motorsport-inspired decals. The package also adds a black
and cognac interior with golden accents.
The standard cabin isn’t anything to ashamed of as
it a shortened gear lever and carbon composite bucket seats which are wrapped
in perforated leather. Drivers will also find a retro-inspired instrument
cluster, limited edition badging and lightweight door panels with black door
pulls and stowage nets.
The 911 Speedster will go into production later this
year and production will be limited to 1,948 units. In the United States, pricing starts at US$ 274,500 – excluding a US$ 1,250 delivery, processing and handling fee. The The optional Heritage Design Package will
cost an extra US$ 24,510.
