An intriguing 1994 Porsche 911 Turbo Prototype will be auctioned off by RM Sotheby’s at the Essen sale on April 11-12.

This Porsche 911 Turbo is thought to be one of the earliest 993 Turbo prototypes built and served a pivotal role in bringing the famed sports car to the road.

The car was used comprehensively by Porsche to develop the 993 Turbo and used to test various features, including wider fenders as well as bespoke front and rear spoilers. When Porsche was done with the car, it removed the engine and transmission and sold it to a dealership in Hofheim where the car was swiftly sold to its one and only owner.

As the prototype was sold before the 993-generation 911 Turbo was actually presented to the world, it wasn’t operational. Only when the sports car made its global premiere was the powertrain re-fitted into the chassis and body.

Despite being used as a tester, the vehicle is thought to be in excellent condition and is painted in a glistening shade of black and comes complete with red leather and red carpeting. Additionally, it includes silver twist-style alloy wheels, a rear wiper, 12-way adjustable seats, Blaupunkt Symphony audio system, air conditioning, and power windows.

RM Sotheby’s says that most 993 911 Turbo prototypes were destroyed when the car was launched and this example might be the sole example still in existence. Unfortunately, it remains unclear how many miles are on the engine or transmission.

Pre-auction estimates indicate the car will sell for between € 295,000 – € 395,000 ($332,000 – $444,000).