Porsche 911 Speedster Concept Makes Surprise Debut At Company’s 70th Anniversary

Porsche is celebrating its 70th anniversary today and the company gave itself one heck of a birthday present – the 911 Speedster concept.

Designed to capture the brand’s “essence,” the 911 Speedster concept is a one-off model that “offers a glimpse of a potential series-production version.” That’s a bit disingenuous, as we’ve already seen spy photos of the production model, but Porsche suggested the road-going car won’t be unveiled until 2019.

Getting back to the concept itself, Porsche says the model features a shorter and more rakish windscreen which is reminiscent of the 356 1500 Speedster. The concept also has a carbon fiber rear cover featuring a double bubble design that hides the roll-over protection structure. The humps are connected by a floating third brake light which illuminates “Porsche” lettering.

Besides the unique rear end, the Speedster features a lightweight tonneau cover instead of a traditional convertible roof. Designers also installed a carbon fiber composite hood and a number of retro-inspired components such as the exterior mirrors and the “50s-style central fuel tank cap.”

Moving into the cabin, drivers will find carbon fiber bucket seats wrapped in Cognac leather upholstery. Other highlights include Speedster badging on the dashboard and Cognac leather door pull straps.

In an effort to save weight, the infotainment system has been eliminated and replaced by a large empty space in the center stack. The air conditioning system has also been removed and there’s minimalist touches throughout the cabin.

While much of the bodywork is shared with the 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet, Porsche says the chassis essentially carries over from the 911 GT3. As a result, the concept has a flat-six engine that develops over 500 hp (372 kW).

Porsche was coy on additional information but confirmed the car has a titanium exhaust system and 21-inch center-locking wheels with a Fuchs design.

https://youtu.be/QrntxEN07cw