Yahoo Autos A New GT3-Powered Porsche 911 Speedster Is Reportedly Coming Soon
The Porsche 911 Speedster first appeared in 1989 as an homage to the 356 Speedster of the Fifties. Since then, it has returned for the 964, 993, 997, and 991 generations of the rear-engine sports car. That last Speedster was a particular highlight, essentially a GT3 convertible, and it proved to be a hit with customers, selling all 1948 planned examples in swift fashion. Now, Porsche will reportedly soon release a 992 Speedster that continues in the vein of its predecessor.
The 992 Speedster will make its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the U.K.'s Car magazine reports. The November event is one of Porsche's favorite venues for important new models (last year, the company brought out the 911 Dakar). Like the 991, the 992 Speedster will apparently share its 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six with the 911 GT3, and receive a cut-down windshield and a large rear clamshell with aerodynamic hoops behind the seats. Unlike the 991 and every other Porsche Speedster, Car says the 992 will have a power-operated top, and additional luggage space behind the seats.
Traditionally, a Porsche Speedster is a stripped-back lightweight, and in the case of the 911, that means doing away with the power top mechanism. A power soft top might not be the purist's choice here, but the Speedster's manual tops are finicky at best. Owners might welcome the convenience at the expense of weight.
It's easy to see why Porsche is making another Speedster. Enthusiasts trip over themselves to buy any special-edition 911 that comes down the pike, so this is easy profit for Porsche. Plus, this is Porsche's 75th year, so all the more reason to do more special editions.
The last Speedster carried a $275,000 MSRP, and we wouldn't be surprised to see this one crest the $300,000 mark. What is almost certain is that Porsche enthusiasts will put down whatever it costs to get one.
You Might Also Like
