In 2018, Porsche celebrated its 70th anniversary by unveiling the 991-generation 911 Speedster, a limited-production model that epitomized the brand’s essence. With only 1,948 units produced, the Speedster paid homage to the year Dr. Ferdinand Porsche crafted his first two-seat roadster in Austria. Drawing inspiration from past Speedster models, including the 356, G-Series, 964, and 997, the 991 Speedster combined classic design with modern engineering for a truly unique experience.
At its core, the 991 Speedster was a 911 GT3 with an open-top design. Built on a cabriolet body, it featured extensive use of carbon fibre for components such as the front trunk lid, fenders, doors, engine cover, and interior trim. The windshield was shortened and raked, enhancing its aggressive stance, while the manually operated fabric roof folded neatly under a double-humped tonneau cover.
The Speedster is powered by the 991.2’s naturally aspirated 4.0-litre flat-six engine. This high-revving masterpiece delivered 502 horsepower and 346 lb-ft of torque, allowing the car to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 192 mph. Porsche offered the Speedster exclusively a six-speed manual transmission, reinforcing its pure, analogue driving experience. This decision was so well-received that Porsche extended the manual option to the 992 GT3.
One standout option for the Speedster was the Heritage Design Package, which celebrated Porsche’s motorsport legacy. This package featured a striking livery inspired by factory-built 356 race cars, including a partially white front section, white motorsport graphics, and gold Speedster badging. The GT Silver Metallic paint echoed the era when race cars were painted in elemental silver, while the 20-inch satin platinum wheels with black centre locks added a modern touch.
A particularly well-preserved 2019 Porsche 911 Speedster, #1,203 of 1,948, recently appeared for sale on Bring A Trailer. This example, equipped with the Heritage Design Package, has logged just 3,800 miles since new. It includes features like LED headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS), a speed-activated rear spoiler, dual exhaust outlets, and a front-axle lift system.
The interior is equally impressive, featuring Cognac leather bucket seats, black leather accents, high-end appointments like a Bose surround sound system, Porsche Communication Management with navigation, and the Light Design Package. A fire extinguisher in the passenger footwell adds a nod to motorsport practicality.
Mechanically, the Speedster is fitted with Porsche’s Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), rear-axle steering, and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), ensuring exceptional handling. The naturally aspirated flat-six engine was enhanced for the Speedster with individual throttle bodies and high-pressure fuel injectors, delivering precise throttle response. A six-speed manual transaxle and limited-slip differential power the rear wheels, while the optional 23.7-gallon fuel tank extends the driving range.
Source: Bring A Trailer
