Porsche has unveiled the 911 Carrera GTS Le Mans Centenaire Edition, a special version of the iconic 911 . This exclusive model celebrates the 100th anniversary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans race and pays tribute to Porsche’s history at the renowned Circuit de la Sarthe.
Inspiration
The 911 Carrera GTS Le Mans Centenaire Edition draws inspiration from two winning cars, the Porsche 356 SL and the 911 GT1 ’98. By incorporating design elements from these vehicles, Porsche has created a modern sports car tailored for the “gentleman driver.” This edition is exclusively available in the French market.
The Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) played a significant role in bringing this special edition to life. Pierre Fillon, the President of ACO, thanked Porsche for their commitment to endurance racing and for creating a remarkable homage to the world’s greatest endurance race.
Engine
Based on the 911 Carrera GTS, the special edition boasts a powerful turbocharged six-cylinder boxer engine producing 353 kW (480 PS). Paired with a standard performance chassis, this car delivers the exceptional performance expected from a Porsche. Buyers can choose between a 7-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed PDK transmission.
Design
The design of the 911 Carrera GTS Le Mans Centenaire Edition has been carefully crafted since 2020, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Numerous unique design details have been developed, such as a rear badge featuring the “24h Le Mans” logo and a laurel wreath design, as well as a high-quality badge with the Le Mans race track outline in the French tricolor and anniversary lettering on the B-pillar. The interior also pays tribute to the race with features like the Le Mans racetrack embossed on the center armrest and the “24h Le Mans” logo on the headrests.
Honoring the first class-win at Le Mans
Additionally, the exterior design takes cues from the winning Porsche 356 SL (1951) and the 911 GT1 ’98. The edition model showcases the Le Mans Silver Metallic color, which was specially reissued for this car and pays homage to the color of the first Le Mans winner. The exterior also features the starting number “46,” reminiscent of the 356 SL’s victory. Inside, the Graphite Blue leather and corduroy from the historic racing car are recreated in the full bucket seats of the modern 911 Carrera GTS, complemented by a Graphite Blue leather GT sports steering wheel. The decorative stitching adds an elegant touch with contrasting color Cayon accents.
Remembering the 911 GT1 ’98
Inspired by the 911 GT1 ’98, the edition model boasts Aurum-painted rims with a fine line in Le Mans Silver Metallic. The rear side windows have a Black decorative decor, creating the visual impression of air outlets similar to the winning racing car. The red seat belts pay tribute to the 911 GT1 ’98. Each buyer of this special edition receives an individual key pouch and a Graphite Blue car cover for indoor use.
The Legacy of Porsche at Le Mans
Porsche’s connection with the 24 Hours of Le Mans is deeply ingrained, with the brand having competed continuously since 1951. Over the years, Porsche has achieved an impressive record of 19 overall victories and 110 class wins at Le Mans, reflecting its commitment to endurance racing and its history of technological innovation.
As part of this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans, Porsche launched a fundraising campaign, donating 750 euros for each race lap driven by their factory Porsche 963s. The resulting sum was increased to 911,000 euros to celebrate Porsche’s anniversary. The funds went to associations benefiting children’s heart surgeries, plastic surgery, and the Ferry Porsche Foundation.
For more information, see original press release HERE.
