With the new 911 Speedster Porsche has saved the most special for last -as far as the 991 goes- but unlike its predecessors, this isn’t simply a modified 911 Convertible; instead, it is a proper GT-car created by the same people behind the spine-tingling GT3.
At its heart – or bottom, whichever you prefer- lives the glorious, naturally aspirated screamer of an engine, the 4.0-liter flat-six unit known from the last 911 GT3 and GT3 RS models. In the Speedster, the powerplant has gained not only the mandatory petrol particulate filter but also individual throttle bodies and higher-pressure fuel injectors.
Also Read: 2019 Porsche 911 Speedster Is Just Like A GT3 But With Looks To Die For
As a result, the engine now produces 503 hp (375 kW / 510 PS), 10hp more than the GT3, and 347 lb-ft (470 Nm) of torque, retaining its ability to rev up to 9,000rpm. A six-speed manual transmission is the only option. Porsche claims a 0-62mph (100km/h) in 4 seconds flat and a top speed of 193mph (310km/h).
The suspension uses the GT3’s dampers, which were softened by a tad to better match the Speedster’s road-based character, as well as the GT3’s springs, which remain unchanged. The four-wheel steering system is also retuned to fit the Speedster’s purposes.
As you might expect, the new 911 Speedster proves to be a riot on the road, according to Carfection’s latest review. Despite having no roof, it manages to offer the sharp handling the company is known for, with tons of grip through the corners and a genuine sense of occasion.
Porsche will build just 1,948 examples of the 911 Speedster, with pricing in the U.S. market starting from $274,500.