Wanderlust

Tag: 992

  • The Porsche 911 Turbo 50 Years

    The Porsche 911 Turbo 50 Years

    • Exclusive 50th anniversary model of the 911 Turbo
    • Limited to 1,974 units
    • Design evokes historic 911 Turbo models

    [source: Porsche AG]

    Stuttgart. To mark the 50th anniversary of the 911 Turbo, Porsche is launching an exclusive anniversary model of its iconic sports car. The 911 Turbo 50 Years combines outstanding performance and the finest materials with exclusive design elements. The interior and exterior evoke historic 911 Turbo models, complemented by timelessly elegant and contemporary styling elements. An optional Heritage Design Package further refines the aesthetics of the anniversary model. Porsche has limited the 911 Turbo 50 Years, which is based on the last-generation 911 Turbo S, to 1,974 units in honour of the year in which the first 911 Turbo made its debut.

    Unique anniversary model with Turbo feel and design
    When it was introduced in 1974, the Type 930 Porsche 911 Turbo shifted the boundaries of what was possible. It brought the benchmark turbo technology from the 917/10 and 917/30 racing cars into a production sports car with superior performance and combined it with a unique design and unprecedented day-to-day usability. The 911 Turbo 50 Years anniversary model – based on the 911 Turbo S introduced in 2019 – both pays tribute to and reinterprets this heritage. The standard side vinyl graphics are a nod to the historic livery of the Porsche 911 RSR Turbo presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1973, itself a forerunner of the 911 Turbo. It features the current Porsche Turbo-exclusive colour Turbonite, which here makes its first appearance on a 911. Turbonite is also used on inlays in the rear engine cover, the fuel tank cap and in the Porsche crest. It is also being used as a contrasting colour in the Turbo 50 model logo. Another historical reference is the use of Anthracite Grey on the rear wing blade, rear apron, mirror base and air intake trims. A badge on the rear engine cover grille features a turbocharger icon and the years 1974–2024. When the door is open, the LED door projector projects the image of a turbocharger onto the ground next to the car. The 911 Turbo 50 Years comes with the 911 Turbo S Exclusive Design wheels in Turbonite as standard.

    Interior recalls the zeitgeist of the 1970s
    The interior of the 911 Turbo 50 Years is also redolent of Turbo history. As an exclusive tribute to the early Porsche 911 Turbo models, the iconic McKenzie tartan adorns the centre panels of the seat covers and the interior door panels. Additional contrasts in Turbonite further differentiate the car from the regular 911 Turbo S series-production model. These Turbonite accents include the seat belts, controls, decorative stitching, trim strips with decorative inlays in black leather and the Porsche crest on the GT sports steering wheel. An illuminated Turbo 50 logo, meanwhile, features on the door kick plates, which are finished in black brushed aluminium. The logo is embroidered into the headrests of the Adaptive Sports Seats Plus. There is also a Turbo 50 logo on the back of the left rear seat. Above the glove compartment is an anniversary plaque in aluminium, which bears both the Turbo 50 logo and the individual limited-edition number of the sports car. The A-pillar, sun visors and roof lining are upholstered in perforated Race-Tex. An analogue Porsche Design Subsecond clock with a special Turbo 50 design adorns the dashboard.

    Even more history with Heritage Design package
    The historically inspired, optionally available 50 Years of Turbo Heritage Design Package complements the anniversary model with numerous additional exclusive design and equipment features that hark back to the 911 Turbo models of the 1970s. The base colour of the Heritage Design Package is provided by the Aventurine Green Metallic paintwork. Alternatively, both the standard 911 colours and Paint to Sample programme colours are also available. One component of the Heritage Design Package is a high-quality decorative graphic in White (satin finish) consisting of three elements: the lollipop with individually selectable car numbers between 0 and 99, the 50 years of Turbo logo and a Porsche logo. Those who prefer a minimalistic look can dispense with some or all of the graphic elements. The historic Porsche crest from 1964 is used on the front bonnet as well as on the centre caps of the Sport Classic wheels, painted in Brilliant Silver and White (satin finish). The Turbo 50 and Porsche logos on the rear are in Gold. In the interior, additional leather features and additional tartan design elements round off the anniversary model. The dashboard trim, glove box and seat backrest inlays are covered with the classic pattern. The historic Porsche crest is mounted on the steering wheel, while the centre console storage compartment bears the Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur logo embossed in the leather. The dials in the instrument cluster and the Sport Chrono clock in the Heritage Design Package are finished in green.

    Outstanding in performance, style and history
    Technically, the Porsche 911 Turbo 50 Years is based on the 911 Turbo S that has been in production since 2019. Its 3.7-litre boxer engine with variable turbine geometry (VTG) twin turbocharging delivers 478 kW (650 PS) and 800 Newton metres of torque. With a kerb weight of 1,640 kilograms, the result is a power-to-weight ratio of 2.52 kg/PS. The 911 Turbo 50 needs just 2.7 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h and hits 200 km/h in a mere 8.9 seconds. Power is transmitted to the wheels by the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK) and the active all-wheel-drive Porsche Traction Management (PTM) with Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus), including the electronically controlled rear differential lock with fully variable torque distribution. A sports exhaust system with black tailpipes comes as standard. The 10 millimetre-lower Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) sports suspension and the lift system on the front axle are also included as standard, as are the LED matrix headlights, including the Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus. The brake callipers of the standard PCCB brake system feature a black finish.

    Exclusive Chronograph for a timeless sports car
    Exclusively for the owners of the 911 Turbo 50 Years, Porsche Design Timepieces is releasing a special timepiece as an homage to the anniversary model. The 911 Turbo 50 Years chronograph is equipped with the COSC-certified Porsche Design WERK 01.200 movement with flyback function. Like the vehicle, the watch is limited to 1,974 units and combines classic design with modern technology. Its black dial with elements in Turbonite is a perfect likeness of the timepiece on the dashboard. The strap, made of black vehicle leather with decorative stitching in Turbonite, features a folding clasp. The transparent case offers a view of the winding rotor in the same style as the wheels of the 911 Turbo 50. The limited-edition number engraved on the titanium housing corresponds to the limited-edition number of the vehicle. The chronograph is also available in a special version in conjunction with the Heritage Design Package.

    Ready for immediate order
    The limited-edition 911 Turbo 50 Years anniversary model can be ordered now at prices starting from € 274,000 including VAT and country-specific equipment. Deliveries will start in autumn 2024. It can already be seen in the ongoing Beyond Performance – 50 Years of Porsche Turbo special exhibition at the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen.

  • Porsche 911 S/T in Dani Blue: When a Dream Color Becomes Reality

    Porsche 911 S/T in Dani Blue: When a Dream Color Becomes Reality

    Porsche enthusiast and horse breeder Jorge Carnicero will soon have a new unique specimen in his stable. As part of the Porsche Sonderwunsch program, a comprehensively customized 911 S/T in Dani Blue has been created. The Kentucky-based sports car collector named the color after Color & Trim designer Daniela Milošević, who developed the shade of paint special for this car. One striking feature of the interior is the tricolor pepita pattern on the seat centers. Like the extensive leather upholstery in Graphite Blue, the pattern complements the blue color of the exterior paintwork. The 911 S/T in Dani Blue will be a featured highlight for Porsche this year at Monterey Car Week.

    The sports car collector from the US state of Kentucky named the colour exclusively developed for him after Colour & Trim designer Daniela Milošević. One striking feature of the interior is the tricoloured pepita houndstooth pattern on the seat centres. Like the extensive leather upholstery in Graphite Blue, the pattern runs with the blue colour of the exterior paintwork. The 911 S/T in Dani Blue will be one of the highlights of the Monterey Car Week (15 to 17 August 2024) before Porsche hands the car over to its long-standing customer.

    “Blue has always been my colour. I was never a fan of green,” Jorge Carnicero already revealed during one of his previous projects with Porsche. That highly individual 911 GT3 Touring was based on the millionth 911, which had rolled off the line in Irish Green in 2017. Despite Carnicero’s preference, this model from four years ago ended up green after all – British Racing Green.

    [source: Porsche]

    Atlanta. During the configuration of a 911 S/T, the sports car collector Jorge Carnicero asked the color experts at Porsche to create a special blue that would suit the sporty, pure character of the limited anniversary model. With its ‘Paint to Sample Plus’ program, Porsche lets customers develop colors based entirely on their own ideas. It is rare for the designers at Style Porsche to be involved in the configuration process of a single vehicle, but they were in this case.

    Elaborate development of Dani Blue in ‘Paint to Sample Plus’

    “Before getting started, we had four “paint frogs” painted in iconic blue colors,” Color & Trim designer Daniela Milošević said, recalling the beginning of this Sonderwunsch project. Paint frogs are miniature cars in the form of a current 911 that enable the effect of colors on a larger 3D body to be better assessed. Enamel Blue soon emerged as the general favorite. This was the color of the Porsche 901 sports coupé from 1964.

    Milošević and her colleagues further developed Enamel Blue, adapting it to the current era. During this process, the tone became “a little more colorful, more intense and darker, but not too loud”, she said. She interpreted Carnicero’s taste perfectly, leading him to name the color after her; ‘Dani Blue.’

    Even the Gurney flap on the rear and the PORSCHE script are painted in this exclusive color on Carnicero’s 911 S/T. Dani Blue’s exceptional brilliance, particularly in daylight, is a result of its sophisticated coating cycle. Of the four coats of clear lacquer in total, the first was additionally sanded. This also enabled the 911 S/T logos painted in contrasting Brilliant Silver to be embedded flush with the surface.

    The customer as a member of the Sonderwunsch family

    “Giving the paint my nickname is an overwhelming sign of gratitude for me and my work,” says Daniela Milošević. It’s also the highlight of the customer’s very appreciative attitude towards the Porsche employees, who found working with him very inspiring and motivating.

    Carnicero happily returns the compliment: “Porsche doesn’t just create unique cars in the Sonderwunsch program. What’s special for me is the journey itself, the extraordinary team feeling, the people behind it all. Everyone is committed to making a personal dream come true, and for this I cannot thank Porsche enough.” With its Sonderwunsch program, Porsche offers its customers individualizations of the highest quality.

    “Jorge Carnicero is a highly valued Porsche customer of many years’ standing and a member of the Sonderwunsch family. We’re so happy that he really appreciates the Manufaktur philosophy,” says Alexander Fabig, Vice President Individualization and Classic. “For some reason, a Porsche in his dream color has never worked out until now. Probably the 911 S/T had to come along, the car that this new color suits so perfectly.”

    Harmonious overall concept with attention to detail

    The classic look that is a feature of all of Jorge Carnicero’s Porsche cars is created by the combination of Dani Blue with Brilliant Silver on the lightweight magnesium wheels, the borders of the side windows (Daylight Opening), and the 911 S/T logos painted in Brilliant Silver behind the front wheel arches. The high-quality overall impression is also underlined by the mirror attachment pieces and the frame of the engine cover around the air intake grille being painted in high-gloss Black.

    There’s also a special Easter egg on the exterior: the motto ‘Simply the Best’ on the underside of the rear bumper. Befitting for the derivative, the letters S and T in this motto are typographically emphasized using the design of the model logo.

    Comprehensive leather interior upholstery and seats with exclusive pepita pattern

    The exterior color concept carries over to the interior. The most striking feature is the tricolor pepita pattern on the seat centers. The iconic check pattern, which first adorned the seats of the Porsche 356 at the start of the 1960s, is composed in this case of threads in Graphite Blue, Chalk and Blue.

    The interior also decorated with cross-stitching in GT Silver along the dashboard trim and the upper door panel trim. Each cross stitch is done carefully by hand by the experts at the Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur saddlery. The interior of this special 911 S/T is generously upholstered in leather in Graphite Blue, with the natural material also being used for the knee pad and the trim on the A-pillars. Even the air vents are bordered in Graphite Blue leather, which is also used for the door opening loops. The entire roof lining is in Race-Tex of the same color. An eye for high-quality details is also evident in the high-gloss Black belt passages of the carbon fiber full bucket seats. The headrests feature the 911 S/T logo in GT Silver.

    Several members of the project team have signed the collector model on the passenger-side dashboard trim. Another Easter egg is to be found in the interior. The lateral ends of the dashboard, which can only be seen when the doors are open, bear an embossed ‘Dani’ signature from Daniela Milošević – a surprise and acknowledgement from the customer to the designer.

    One further detail with a personal note: a logo designed especially for Carnicero’s one-off car is embossed on the cover of the center console and on the vehicle document folder. It combines the 911 S/T logo with the current World Champion titles from Porsche. Everything comes full circle here, as a Metallic Silver 911 S from 1971 that carried the iconic ‘Porsche Manufacturers’ World Champion 69, 70, 71’ sticker in the side window was Carnicero’s first Porsche. Thus, with the support of Sonderwunsch Manufaktur, he also had a memento of his first great Porsche love attached to this latest Sonderwunsch project.

    As with the car, the luggage compartment has also been extensively customized. It is upholstered in Graphite Blue leather, and the exclusive pepita houndstooth pattern is also used here. The trunk mat and the bag for the roadside warning triangle are made of the tricolor textile that is a hallmark of Porsche.

    A special blue car cover with the 911 S/T logo and the 60th anniversary logo in contrasting grey round off the car’s exclusive look. And finally, the vehicle key is painted in Dani Blue.

    About the Porsche 911 S/T

    The Sonderwunsch model is based on the 911 S/T with which Porsche celebrates the 60th anniversary of the 911. This special edition, limited to 1,963 units, offers a one-of-a-kind combination of agility and driving dynamics. It combines the naturally aspirated, 518 hp 4.0-liter flat-six engine from the 911 GT3 RS with a close-ratio manual transmission. This is complemented by resolutely lightweight construction down to the tiniest detail and a running-gear setup optimized for agility and drivability. The name identifies the new 911 S/T as the descendant of a particularly performance-focused version of the first 911 generation. Starting in 1969, Porsche offered a special racing version of the 911 S. Internally, these vehicles were called 911 ST. 

    About the Porsche Sonderwunsch program

    In the spirit of truly luxury, the Porsche Sonderwunsch program provides bespoke customization services for unique sports cars with a combination of skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail. The sports car manufacturer thus reinterprets its legendary Sonderwunsch program from the late 1970s to enable individualized, one-off cars – co-created by the customer and professionally produced by Porsche.

    The range of services encompasses individual customer color and material requests directly in production, as well as subsequent modification after the car is delivered to the customer. Practically speaking, everything complying with local regulatory requirements is possible, from new colors and equipment for existing cars to the creation of individual one-off cars at the customer’s request.

  • Market Find: Paint to Sample Grey Black 911 GT3 Touring

    Market Find: Paint to Sample Grey Black 911 GT3 Touring

    Taking direct inspiration from the incredibly sought-after 997.2 GT3 RS, this Porsche Paint to Sample Grey Black 992 gen GT3 Touring is simply wild.

    Currently on offer at Graham Rahal Performance, this GT3 Touring merges the subtle with the flashy by pairing the decidedly understated Grey Black paint with exposed carbon on the mirrors and roof, with wheels finished in Riviera Blue.

    The blue accents continue into the cabin with bright blue leather on the bottom of the dashboard, the door cards, and bucket seats, as well as in the deviated stitching featured throughout.

    This Paint to Sample 992 GT3 Touring is currently available at Graham Rahal Performance for $329,999. See additional info, here.

  • Market Find: Porsche Paint to Sample Polar Silver 911 Targa 4 GTS

    Market Find: Porsche Paint to Sample Polar Silver 911 Targa 4 GTS

    There’s a fairly fine line between tasteful and outlandish in the Tailored Driver world, but for me, this straddles it perfectly.

    Featuring a relatively tame Paint to Sample Polar Silver exterior juxtaposed spectacularly by the Agave Green leather interior, this Targa 4 GTS demands a second, third, and potentially fourth look from passers by. The longer you stare, the more the claimed $249k sticker price makes sense.

    If you’re looking to hit a home run in the secondhand bespoke world, look no further than Ferrari of San Diego, where this Targa 4 GTS currently is for sale at an undisclosed sum.

  • Porsche Ibérica Celebrates Anniversary with Cuarenta Edition

    Porsche Ibérica Celebrates Anniversary with Cuarenta Edition

    To mark its 40th anniversary, the subsidiary Porsche Ibérica has unveiled the Cuarenta Edition. It features a unique combination of exterior and interior colours and finishes, as well as exclusive logos inspired by Iberian history and culture. The creation of this 911 edition brought together experts from the market Porsche Ibérica, Style Porsche and the Sonderwunsch Team in Zuffenhausen.

    [source: Porsche]

    In 1984, Porsche transitioned from being represented in Spain by an importer to being a subsidiary, initially called Porsche España, S.A. This milestone not only reflects the brand’s strong bond with its Iberian enthusiasts but also marks the beginning of a new chapter in the company’s history. To commemorate these four decades and to honour the customers who have made them possible, Porsche is presenting an exclusive and highly individualised edition of the iconic 911. The limited market edition is distinguished by its meticulously crafted design and the exclusivity that defines contemporary Porsche luxury. With carefully selected colours, materials, and finishes, each car in this collection is a work of art in motion, compiled by Porsche Ibérica to fulfil the dreams of a small group of future owners.

    “The arrival of Porsche as a subsidiary in Spain and Portugal, taking over from the importer at the time, was a turning point for the brand,” says Tomás Villén, Managing Director of Porsche Ibérica. “We are very proud of the work we have done in these forty years, and what better way to celebrate than with an exclusive model of the company’s icon, the 911, for our market. At Porsche Ibérica, we will keep one unit, which we will use and preserve as a jewel to showcase our heritage.”

    Inspired by the Iberian culture and tradition

    The idea behind the Cuarenta Edition was to create a 911 that would have been ordered by a Spanish or Portuguese customer 40 years ago and that is still fashionable and desirable today,” says Alexander Fabig, Vice President Individualisation & Classic at Porsche. “In this Sonderwunsch project, the collaboration with our Spanish and Portuguese colleagues was very creative. We learnt a lot about Iberian culture and tradition as well as anecdotes from the founding period of Porsche Ibérica in the 1980s.”

    In addition to the various anniversary activities planned throughout the year, Porsche Ibérica wanted to create a special version based on the iconic 911 that would be reminiscent of the founding phase in the 1980s. Porsche Ibérica turned to the Sonderwunsch programme to begin the creation process, together with the specialists of this department. The Sonderwunsch programme takes individualisation, attention to detail and skilled craftmanship to the next level. The result is the integration of Individual design elements that go far beyond the existing catalogue for the 911.

    A team travelled to Porsche’s headquarter in Zuffenhausen to create together the details for this market edition. The entire process was undertaken ahead of the launch of the new evolution of the 911. The base version chosen was the new Carrera GTS Coupé, the first new model to be marketed by the Spanish subsidiary 40 years ago. The timeless sporty style and technical sophistication of the 911 GTS were refined with selected Sonderwunsch touches to create a tailor-made concept for the Spanish and Portuguese customers.

    In this second phase of the 911 series, the Carrera GTS version is equipped with the new T-Hybrid drive system. It combines an electric motor integrated into the turbocharger, a lightweight high-voltage battery, and an electric motor coupled to the eight-speed PDK gearbox. The six-cylinder boxer now has a displacement of 3.6 litres. With a system output of 398 kW (541 PS, 911 Carrera GTS: Fuel consumption* combined (WLTP) 11.0 – 10.5 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions* combined (WLTP) 251 – 239 g/km, CO2 class G ), it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.0 seconds and reach a top speed of 312 km/h (194 mph). Standard equipment includes rear-wheel steering, and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with 10 millimetres lower ground clearance.

    The Porsche Driver Experience control concept focuses on the driver’s axis for intuitive and faster operation. Key controls have been positioned directly on or around the steering wheel. For the first time in a 911, there is a start button, naturally to the left of the steering wheel, and the instrument panel is fully digital.

    Exterior Design

    For the Cuarenta Edition, a bespoke exterior colour has been created: Quercusverde reminds of the very particular shade that holm oak leaves have. This green colour is characteristic of the typical landscape of Spain and Portugal, with its fields of holm oaks, oak trees, and cork oaks. Quercusverde was developed via the Paint to Sample Plus offer. Offered through Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, the Paint to Sample Plus programme makes it possible to create individual colours based on customer specifications.

    The Quercus tree is also used in the anniversary logo. It is hand-painted and placed on the rear lid grille of the car. Additionally, fidentifying elements include the nueveonce/Cuarenta (“911 40”) logo on the B-pillar in Cremewhite, the Porsche and 911 logo at the rear in Silver, the side window trims in Aluminium, the fender flares in stone guard film in Black Satin and the rear lights and strip in Red.

    The stone guard film is a functional and stylistic nod to the popular option of 911s in the 80ies. The modern 911 Carrera GTS Cuarenta Edition brings this element back. A stone guard film was specially designed in the shape of the protective film used on a 911 back in the days as well. In Black Satin, it is placed on each Cuarenta Edition.

    The wheels are RS Spyder Design in Black Satin with a rim painted in Brilliant Silver and wheel centre caps in Black Satin with Porsche crest monochrome. This is an homage to the colour combination to be found on the 911 wheels in the 1980’s.

    Interior concept

    The interior is designed in a two-tone Truffle Brown and Cohiba Brown leather combination. The darker brown shade is applied on the instrument panel and lower surfaces. The lighter is applied on the trim surfaces. The brown tones refer to the artisanal work of the guarnicioneros (the craftsmen who work in saddlery, which is considered nearly an art in the Iberian Peninsula).

    Remarkable eye catcher and bespoke to this car is the Tartan textile on the seat centre inlays in a specially developed colour scheme: Truffle Brown, Cohiba Brown, Crayon and a nuance of Quercusverde appear in a checkered pattern.

    For the Cuarenta Edition, an elegant cross-stitching is applied in Crayon and Truffle Brown along the dashboard trim and upper door panel. Cross-stitching is a highly manual process. Experts in the saddlery sew every stitch carefully by hand. The detail underlines the luxurious interior concept of the car. Adaptive Sports seats Plus (18-way) and rear seats are upholstered in Cohiba Brown leather with seat centres in the new Tartan textile. Elegant piping in Crayon is manufactured on front and rear, emphasizing the luxurious interior concept of this market edition. Front seats are additionally finished with Cuarenta embossing on the headrests.

    In a subtle way, the passenger trim in leather Truffle Brown shows the high-quality embossing Cuarenta emphasizing the individualised interior. Further individualised is the storage lid on the centre console with “Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur” lettering embossed.

    When entering the vehicle, customers will see the door sill guards in Aluminium Darksilver with customized Cuarenta lettering illuminated in Cremewhite. In addition, the individualised LED door courtesy lights display the special “Quercus tree logo” on the ground. Attention to detail can also be found on the driver’s key, which is painted in Quercusverde and features a Cuarenta lettering in Silver. It is handed over to the customer in a special two-tone Truffle Brown and Cohiba Brown leather key pouch – matching the interior. The key pouch also shows an embossing of the Quercus tree logo.

    Customers will also receive an indoor car cover custom-made for the Cuarenta Edition. Executed in Quercusverde, it features a Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur logo on front, Cuarenta Edition lettering on sides in Cremewhite and badge on the rear.

  • Monterey Auction Preview: RM with Former White Collection 2023 911 Sport Classic

    Monterey Auction Preview: RM with Former White Collection 2023 911 Sport Classic

    One tailored build headed for auction during Monterey Car Week 2024 is this very unique 2023 Porsche 911 Sport Classic (VIN: WP0AG2A90PS252368) being sold without reserve by RM Sotheby’s. Sold via Porsche North Houston, you may not be all that surprised looking at the spec that this 992 was built for the White Collection.

    We’ve been unable to confirm the specific white, but the associated documents provided by RM do confirm the white that covers it is a Paint to Sample shade. It’s also worth noting that this car had plenty of Sonderwunsch factory commissioned modifications. These include many components color-matched white, and a striking red interior.

    Below the gallery is a the full description provided by RM Sotheby’s. Find more photos and information on the car HERE.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: We were unable to confirm this paint color during the writing of this story. If you know the color, please confirm it below in the comments or by direct messaging the author.

    • The most powerful Porsche Type 992 911 with a manual transmission
    • One of 1,250 examples produced
    • Delivered new to the White Collection 
    • Extensively personalized with over $150,000 of Sonderwunsch Factory Commissioning, for a total new price of $448,535
    • Presented in virtually as-new condition with fewer than 77 miles on the odometer at the time of cataloguing 

    With so many iconic cars and significant achievements throughout the past 75 years, Porsche rightfully celebrates the company’s heritage by offering its most dedicated followers limited-production models inspired by their most beloved and sought-after historical creations. Cars like the 911 R, the several generations of Speedsters, and the original Type 997 Sport Classic have all offered modern performance with a dash of vintage panache.

    The latest iteration of the Sport Classic, now based on the Type 992 platform, presents a “greatest hits” collection of the most established Porsche design features wrapped around one of the most potent and engaging drivetrains ever fitted to a 911. This limited-edition model is easily identified by the 2.7 RS-inspired duck tail spoiler and Fuchs-style wheels on all four corners. Keener observers will note the double-bubble carbon fiber roof, gold-color badging, and a Porsche shield featuring the early-style bright red element of the Württemberg crest. Twin stripes streak across the hood, roof, and tail, further alluding to the firm’s immense racing history. The interior is covered with plenty of leather, distinctive houndstooth cloth on the doors and seat inserts, and green-accented instrumentation for a 1960s atmosphere. Lastly, a badge on the dashboard notes the serial number of each Sport Classic.

    Utilizing the Turbo widebody and engine platform, the Sport Classic is the most powerful rear-wheel drive 911 of this generation so far. The twin-turbocharged 3.7-liter flat-six engine produces a whopping 542 horsepower, and while mildly detuned from its four-wheel drive brethren, this reduction has allowed for the option of a manual transmission (much to the delight of enthusiasts). The chassis is additionally fitted with carbon ceramic brakes, Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control, rear steering, Porsche Active Suspension Management, and a specially tuned exhaust as standard.

    On offer is serial number 0923 of the 1,250 Sport Classics offered worldwide. An immensely special machine already, this example stands above its siblings courtesy of over $150,000 worth of Sonderwunsch Factory Commissioning. As shown on the CXX option sheet on file, the exterior is finished almost entirely in White, from the front-end air intakes to the wheels and around to the lower rear valance. Only matte white stripes and black wheel center locks provide contrast to this snowy exterior treatment. Alternatively, the sanguine interior features leather across most visible surfaces in a display of supreme luxury and customization. The air vents, center tunnel, knee pads, front trunk, rear side panels, lower dashboard, inner door sill guards, and even the owner’s manual wallet are all finished in Can Can Red hides. Houndstooth joins the mix on the door cards, seat inserts, and trunk pouch. The summation of this custom tailoring has resulted in a truly exquisite example of such a special Porsche.

    Delivered new to the legendary White Collection, the 911 subsequently traded hands and today presents with fewer than 77 miles on the odometer at the time of cataloging. Thanks to this limited use, the car presents in virtually as-new condition and will undoubtedly be a highlight of any serious collection for decades to come.

  • Jörg Bergmeister Pays Homage to Racing History with Sonderwunsch Porsche 911 GT3 RS

    Jörg Bergmeister Pays Homage to Racing History with Sonderwunsch Porsche 911 GT3 RS

    Porsche Brand Ambassador Jörg Bergmeister turns to Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur and the Sonderwunsch team to create a 911 GT3 RS worthy of a 24-hour winner.

    [source: Porsche AG]

    The afternoon of 2 February, 2003, was a historic day for Porsche. When a privately entered 911 GT3 RS crossed the line at the Daytona International Speedway, it had not only won its class at one of the toughest and most prestigious endurance events on the international sports car calendar, but in so doing had beaten all-comers to take an unprecedented overall victory.

    One of the drivers that day was Jörg Bergmeister, a graduate of Carrera Cup competing in only his second 24-hour race at Daytona. Alongside him were Michael Schrom, Timo Bernhard and team owner Kevin Buckler, whose 996-generation customer racer was entered by TRG or ‘The Racer Group’ and finished in the team’s now familiar blue and yellow livery.

    Fast forward two decades and the teammates are now old friends in regular contact. And when the new 911 GT3 RS was announced in August 2022, a seed was sown by Schrom that would lead Bergmeister on an 18-month journey to a unique and a deeply personal car of his own design.

    “The idea came from Michael Schrom”

    “The idea actually came from Michael in the summer of 2022,” Bergmeister says. “When he heard about the new GT3 RS he pointed out that the following year was the 20th anniversary of our win at Daytona in a GT3 RS. It was perfect timing.”

    Bergmeister was able to secure an allocation for a GT3 RS with the provision for all-important Paint to Sample. His Daytona winner was painted in Rivierablue, a colour that had been with the driver since his earliest days racing Formula cars in his native Germany. Working closely with Porsche’s Sonderwunsch team, a design was gradually created that would closely replicate the original livery while introducing a number of unique elements to commemorate the anniversary of that special win.

    Panels in Rivierablue

    Bergmeister specified a car without the bare carbon Weissach Package in order to paint all the panels in the correct Rivierablue. Exterior elements in contrasting Racing Yellow were applied to match those on the TRG race winner and the rear wing was painted in white with side plates in Racing Yellow. On the underside of the rear wing, a Porsche crest was also applied, while further exterior touches included the model name on the rear deck and foil decals on the car’s flanks in matching Racing Yellow.

    Inside, Bergmeister specified extended black leather with stitching in contrasting GT Silver and additional Race-Tex covering the dash. The car was also ordered with the Club Sports package that includes a one-kilogram road-legal fire extinguisher, another nod to its thoroughbred predecessor. But the most striking feature of the interior would be the unique carbon fibre door sill panel, the lettering on which emulates the engraving on the Rolex watches awarded to winners of the 24 Hours of Daytona.

    After a year-long wait, Bergmeister was finally presented with his bespoke GT3 RS in Zuffenhausen in mid-February, by happy coincidence on his 48th birthday. He credits Sandy-Marc Bauer from International VIP & Special Sales and Boris Apenbrink, Director Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur Vehicles and Options, and his dedicated team with the successful realisation of his dream.

    “A lot of people were involved with this project,” Bergmeister says, “helping to get all the little details on there. And everyone who has seen the car since and knows the story behind it really likes it.”

    The car is now receiving full paint protection before its maiden outing, with Bergmeister eager for the drier conditions of spring to arrive. “I can’t wait to drive it but first the weather needs to get better. I’m definitely not going to take it out on salty winter roads. It’s a little too precious to me to be a daily driver!”

    When the right day arrives, it is certain to be a poignant moment for everyone involved. “I’m still proud of what we achieved back then at Daytona, and this car has brought back those memories already. I’m not usually that emotional, but when I first saw it I got goose bumps. I feel so fortunate that it’s finally done and I’m super-stoked with how it’s turned out.”

  • Long-Standing Porsche Lover Has Colour Named after Him

    Long-Standing Porsche Lover Has Colour Named after Him

    For the first time, Porsche has implemented a customer-specific Paint to Sample Plus colour in a new process.

    [source: Porsche AG]

    Guards Red, Racing Yellow, Carrara White Metallic – just a few of the familiar names for colours from the Porsche Car Configurator. Now a brilliantly rich green will join the palette. Michael Essmann, a long-standing Porsche lover and Managing Director of family business Elektro Essmann, has had his very own individual colour made within the scope of the Paint to Sample Plus range. As part of the model year R Paint to Sample range, starting in March 2023 the exterior colour Essmanngreen, colour code 24C, will also be available through the Car Configurator for customers of the 911, 718 and Taycan model lines.

    As far back as 1992, Michael Essmann had a 911 Carrera RS 3.6 (964) painted in the company colour of the master workshop for electrical installations and photovoltaic systems – the first Porsche model in Essmanngreen. Other cars followed, including a 911 GT3 RS 4.0 (997) and most recently a 911 GT3 Touring (992). Sons Mike and Stefan Essmann compete successfully in the Porsche Sports Cup, with racing cars naturally, these also displaying Essmanngreen accents on the bodies.

    “My very first Porsche was a 911 SC in 1978 with which I also graduated from the Sport Driving School,” recalls Michael Essmann. “It was painted Opal Metallic. It was only later that I had the idea of using the colour of our family business for my private cars too. But every time I pick up a new Porsche in this very special colour it’s a great feeling. And to know that I’m the originator of this colour named after me.”

    Highest quality and perfect colour matching

    While the Custom Colour of the 964 was blended in the After Sales painting process that was standard at the time 30 years ago, the current Essmann Porsche benefits from Porsche professionalising the range of special exterior colours in 2021 and significantly expanding its capacity. A new colour-mixing bench has been put into operation at the main plant in Zuffenhausen, where paint specialists blend several dozen ingredients down to the last milligram to achieve the desired shade. When the binding agents and additives are included, the recipe for Essmanngreen contains over 100 ingredients.

    Each batch is divided into two paint pots for bodywork and add-on parts. The areas to be painted on the vehicle consist largely of aluminium, plastics and carbon/fibreglass composites. This mix of materials and the different application methods and drying temperatures require slightly different paint compositions, depending on the component. A test body and so-called batch comparison plates are painted and used as a colour reference for the final acceptance of the car.

    These completely new processes designed for high quality with the combination of craftsmanship and industrialisation required the re-development, testing and approval of all colours, some of which had already been used successfully in the past in the old paint shop. This is why it was necessary to develop a paint recipe for Essmanngreen on Type 992 because it was last used successfully in the old paint shop for Type 997.

    “Unusual paint finishes are part of the history of our brand and are an important differentiating feature,” says Alexander Fabig, Head of Individualisation and Classic. “The intelligent combination of the production process and its industrialisation is unique. Our customers thus enjoy a very wide range of available colours and many custom paint finishes that meet the highest standards. Every colour must be deemed suitable for many different surfaces and materials – perfect colour matching is what is wanted.”

    170 additional colours across all model series

    Porsche has extended its colour range while simultaneously restructuring it. “Paint to Sample” used to be known as “Custom Colour”. This category includes predefined colours that have already been technically approved by the paint specialists at Porsche.

    For especially individual colour requests, Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur goes a step further: “Paint to Sample Plus” allows almost complete freedom in selecting the paintwork based on a sample submitted by the customer. Thus, the Essmanngreen colour on Michael Essmann’s 911 GT3 Touring was first created as a “Paint to Sample Plus”. After technical approval, the Porsche paint specialists then added the colour to the “Paint to Sample” programme. There, Essmanngreen can now be selected from anyone who is interested via the Porsche Car Configurator. The process was started by Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, who painted a brand-new 911 GT3 RS (992) in the this colour for exhibition purposes.

    The overall range of “Colours of Choice” is very big. For the 911 and 718 model series, there are currently 115 additional paint colours to choose from, For the Taycan there are currently 108 such options, while for the Panamera and the Macan the number is 59, with the Cayenne offering a choice of 52 different colours. Taking into account a number of overlaps, there are 170 additional colours for all model series combined.

    Personal design even in the interior

    Michael Essmann selected not only “Paint to Sample Plus” but also further custom options from the Sonderwunsch programme of Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur. For example, his very personal 911 GT3 Touring (992) has a Porsche logo on the side whose look is based on the Porsche Heritage Design models.

    In the interior, the seats were customised. Based on the 964 RS, the seat centres have a graduated colour design in Slate Grey and Crayon. Trim made of carbon enhances the dashboards. The “touring” logo is stitched into the headrests of the full bucket seats in red thread. This fits in with the overall concept as Elektro Essmann also uses red as a contrasting colour.

    About Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur

    A sports car as individual as your own fingerprint, as unmistakable as your own lifestyle: Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur in Zuffenhausen creates very personal customer vehicles through a combination of perfect craftsmanship and a high-tech approach. Highly qualified employees with decades of expertise devote their full attention to every detail and enhance it through hand craftsmanship.

    The experts can draw on a wide range of visual and technical customisation options for the exterior and interior of Porsche cars. Visible examples include Sport Design packages, custom rim designs and interior trims, as well as the comprehensive “Paint to Sample” range for all Porsche models. Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur fulfils the highest demands with regard to materials and craftsmanship. Alongside individual customer vehicles, Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur also produces limited small series and editions. High-quality materials are combined with modern production technologies to create a harmonious overall concept.

  • Monterey Car Week 2022: Porsche 911 GT3 RS “Wingman” on Display at Zentrum

    Monterey Car Week 2022: Porsche 911 GT3 RS “Wingman” on Display at Zentrum

    Porsche first pulled the wraps off its 992 GT3 RS show car at The Quail on Friday, and with end of secrecy now completed it headed over to the Porsche Zentrum at The Barns at Cooper Molera near downtown Monterey. That’s where we caught up with it.

    This show car, dubbed “Wingman” that no doubt pays tribute to its trick aerodynamics, pays tribute to 50 years of the original Carrera RS 2.7 with attention-grabbing green and white livery that will enjoy limited-availability as the Tribute to Carrera RS Package from Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur.

    The main color of the Porsche is simply listed as white, while the eye-catching stripes are painted in Porsche Python Green. In person, it looks fantastic thanks to the iconic history associated.

    “Wingman”, along with several other key Porsche models and historic cars, was on display for the remainder of Monterey Car Week and available for public view during operational hours of the Monterey Car Week Porsche Zentrum temporary facility.

    Check out more photos from our first encounter with Wingman in the gallery below.

  • Sonderwunsch Factory Re-Commissioning: 911 GT3 – 30 Years of Porsche Supercup

    Sonderwunsch Factory Re-Commissioning: 911 GT3 – 30 Years of Porsche Supercup

    The organisers of this one-make series have decided to mark this special anniversary with a treat for themselves: the project managers at Porsche Motorsport asked the specialists at Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur to carry out a complex Factory Re-Commissioning of a roadgoing 911 GT3 based on the 911 GT3 Cup in the 30th anniversary livery.

    [source: Porsche AG]

    The Porsche Supercup has been one of the best-known and toughest customer racing series in the world for 30 years. To drive the new 911 GT3 Cup on legendary circuits such as Monte Carlo or Silverstone in the run-up to Formula One races is a dream-come-true for many racers. The organisers of this one-make series have decided to mark this special anniversary with a treat for themselves.

    911 GT3 road version in anniversary design

    As part of the new Sonderwunsch programme, the unique model was completed in less than six months. At Porsche, a ‘Sonderwunsch Factory Re-Commissioning’ is both a recommissioning project and a customisation one – in other words the technical restoration of a Porsche road car along with a redesign of the exterior and interior colour concept to a new-vehicle standard. Highlights include the spectacular eight-colour paintwork design with the anniversary logo and a multicolour pixel mesh around the rear wheel arches, among other elements. The names of all 29 previous Porsche Supercup champions are also immortalised in gold on the rear bumper.

    “Every Sonderwunsch project is something very special – not only for the customers, but also for us,” says Alexander Fabig, Vice President Individualization and Classic at Porsche. “New projects means new challenges, and we learn something every time. That applies to this 911 GT3 – 30 Years of Porsche Supercup as well.”

    “A tight schedule, high technical standards and a great team spirit that ultimately takes you to the finish line – this is something that I’ve otherwise only seen in the world of motorsport,” says Oliver Schwab, Project Manager of the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup. “Working with Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur on this Factory Re-Commissioning was a great experience.  And the 911 GT3 – 30 Years of Porsche Supercup is a worthy ambassador in our anniversary year. The Porsche Supercup made racing history and continues to do so today. We say ‘Happy Birthday’ and look forward to many more years of racing on the most famous race tracks in the world.”

    To begin with, the special model will be seen at the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup races. From late summer, appearances at the Porsche Museum and the CityLife Showroom in Milan are in the works, together with the 911 GT3 Cup VIP racing car. This model is a key element in communications for the Porsche Supercup. Every season, a well-known celebrity races the car as a guest driver. Past Supercup champions will also take the Sonderwunsch 911 GT3 on excursions and talk about their triumphs and highlights.

    The basis for the Sonderwunsch Factory Re-Commissioning was an already finished, road-ready Porsche 911 GT3 – the roadgoing version of the racing car used in the Porsche Supercup. In a process lasting several weeks, the vehicle was first disassembled and then rebuilt with its special design.

    Custom modifications to the exterior and interior

    The 911 GT3 – 30 Years of Porsche Supercup features multicolour paintwork. Not a single detail on the vehicle is a wrap or sticker. The eight colours in total – GT Silver Metallic, Agate Grey Metallic, high-gloss Black, Meteorgreymetallic, Parliamentgreymetallic, Volcanogreymetallic, Grigiogranitometallic and Diamondblackmetallic – are all painted, as are the gold-coloured names of the Supercup winners.

    The greatest challenge in the painting process was to precisely apply the multicoloured pixel mesh to several points on the dynamically shaped body. Inspired by the VIP racing car, the pattern can be found behind the air outlets in the front bonnet, behind the front wheels and on the rear wheel arches. The anniversary logo, a large golden ‘30’, is displayed on the doors and front bonnet. In addition, the names of all 29 past Porsche Supercup champions have been painted in gold and sealed with a high-gloss clear lacquer. After the paintwork, the vehicle was reassembled by hand at Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur and customised with additional Sonderwunsch features.

    Inside, the seats are particularly stunning. The embossed anniversary logo in the headrests, an independent Sport Tex colour variant in Black/Aurum for the centre panels and colour-coordinated piping in Mojave Beige lend the leather seats a very special character.

    The cuboid pattern in Black/Aurum is also used on the armrests in the doors. The dashboard trim also bears the anniversary logo while the top part of the dashboard, the door panels and the side panels have been customised with Mojave Beige cross-stitching.

    About Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup

    The Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup is regarded as one of the toughest one-make series in the world. Races are held at the European events of the FIA Formula One World Championship. In addition to the opening event in Imola, Italy on 24 April, there are seven further races on the calendar this year. A total of 28 racing drivers from eight teams are competing for the title in this anniversary season. In addition to the overall and ProAm driver classification, there is also a team and a rookie classification.

    Since the 2021 season, the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup racing car has been based on the current 992 generation 911. With an output of around 375 kW (510 PS), the spectacularly designed Cup car outmuscles its direct predecessor by 25 PS. The 911 GT3 Cup will be fuelled with Esso Renewable Racing Fuel.

    The highly successful Porsche junior programme has served as a springboard for professional careers in racing for 25 years and has produced numerous works drivers, world champions and Le Mans winners. Examples include the careers of Timo Bernhard (Porsche Junior from 2000 to 2001), Marc Lieb (2000 to 2002) and Earl Bamber (2014): all three won the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans and the FIA World Endurance Championship title at least once with the Porsche 919 Hybrid.

    About Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur

    A sports car as individual as your own fingerprint, as unmistakable as your own lifestyle: Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur in Zuffenhausen creates very personal customer vehicles through a combination of perfect craftsmanship and a high-tech approach. Highly qualified employees with decades of expertise devote their full attention to every detail and enhance it through hand craftsmanship. The experts can draw on a wide range of visual and technical customisation options for the exterior and interior of Porsche cars.

    As part of its Co-Creation strategy, the sports car manufacturer is reinterpreting its legendary Sonderwunsch programme from the late 1970s, which will enable it to design individualised, one-off cars – co-created by the customer and professionally produced by Porsche. The expansion of this offering is divided into the areas of Factory Commissioning for individual customer colour and material requests directly in production as well as subsequent Factory Re-Commissioning and Factory One-Off after vehicle delivery to the customer. Whereas Factory Re-Commissioning is all about individual colours and materials, the Factory One-Off service is a systematic new technical development.