Porsche 964 Carrera 2 Speedster

Collectively, the Carrera 2 Coupé, Carrera 2 Cabriolet and Carrera 4 Coupé accounted for more than two-thirds of all 964 production, yet it was the stunning Speedster—inspired by its 1950s 356 counterpart—that arguably garnered the most attention of any 964 model. An inspired compromise between the no-frills 964 Carrera RS and the Carrera 2 Cabriolet, it offered a superb driving experience and impressive performance figures of 0 to 100 km/h in 6 seconds and a top speed of 260 km/h. However, despite its eye-catching appearance, Porsche’s original intention to produce 3,000 cars proved wildly optimistic, with just 936 being produced between 1993 and 1994.

Understood to be one of just 427 Speedsters destined for the all-important US market, this example was completed at Porsche’s Zuffenhausen factory on 1 July 1993, finished in the colours of Guards Red with black leather interior. Generously specified with a limited-slip differential, cruise control, stereo/CD player, and automatic climate control, its specification was further enhanced by other factory-fitted options including driver- and passenger-side airbags, power steering, 17-inch aluminium “Cup” wheels, lightweight racing seats and RS-specification door panels.

First registered in the United States on 1 March 1994, the car has been used only sparingly since; a fact evidenced by the low recorded mileage of just 33,257 as at the time of cataloguing. Indeed, since its acquisition by the vendor in 2010, it has covered less than 1,000 miles. The car retains its plethora of factory-fitted paper labels and advisory decals throughout.

Accompanied by a tool kit, Porsche-branded compressor and service manuals, it is highly unusual to find any Porsche 911 in such complete condition; much less so a variant as rare as a 911 Speedster. Offering stunning looks, exhilarating performance and an incomparably pure driving experience, this magnificent example is a worthy tribute in every way to its illustrious 1950s predecessor.