3,600cc SOHC 6-Cylinder Engine
Bosch Fuel Injection
250bhp at 6,100rpm
5-Speed Manual Transaxle
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Just two owners from new
*Under 16,500 miles present on the odometer
*One of only 936 built
*Complete with original books, manuals, and radio

THE PORSCHE 964 SPEEDSTER

With the introduction of the 911 Speedster in January 1989, Porsche revived a charismatic model from its past, the name previously having been applied to that most stylish of the many Type 356 variants. Based on the 911 Turbo Cabriolet, though normally aspirated, the 3.2-litre Speedster was launched immediately prior to the introduction of the new Type 964 bodyshell, and thus was the last 911 model to feature the 'old style' body. The latter was reworked by chief stylist Tony Lapine, incorporating numerous references to the original 356 Speedster as well as a pair of controversial 'camel hump' cowlings behind the seats that concealed the stowed-away manual hood.

Their arrival represented a major step forward in the development of Porsche's perennial 911, the Type 964 Carreras marked the first time that four-wheel drive had been seen on a series-production model, appearing on the Carrera 4. Face-lifted but retaining that familiar shape, the newcomers had been given a more extensive work-over mechanically, 87% of parts being claimed as entirely new. The pair shared the same 3.6-litre flat-six engine, while power-assisted steering (another 911 'first'), anti-lock brakes and a five-speed manual transmission were standard on both, with the Tiptronic auto 'box a Carrera 2-only option. Its new engine enabled the 964 to out-perform the old '3.2' yet still met the latest emissions regulations, top speed increasing to 162mph with 60mph attainable in 5.4 seconds (5.6 seconds Tiptronic).

It took Porsche a couple of years to re-introduced the Speedster to the 911 line-up, the Type 964 version being announced in October 1992. Based on the Carrera 2, it looked very like its immediate predecessor, but unlike the latter was not initially available with the 'Turbo-Look' body style. It is estimated that only 936 Type 964 Speedsters were built for the 1993 model year, with some of the later examples being completed as 1994 cars and sold alongside the successor Type 993 Porsches. With the latter's introduction, the Speedster once again disappeared from the 911 catalogue, only to be revived a few years ago as part of Porsche's 'Exclusive' programme of strictly limited edition models.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This beautifully well presented Grand Prix White (code L908) 964 Speedster bears the wonderful distinction of only having 2 owners since leaving Stutgart. Since 1995, this open top sports car has been under the care of a dedicated marque enthusiast who's credentials are backed up by a Pebble Beach award many years ago with another model. Being such a rare and coveted model from the very beginning, this Porsche has lightly driven and less than 16,500 show on the odometer, further indicating the level of care bestowed onto the vehicle.

As is made apparent by the photos presented here, this Speedster has been lovingly maintained over the past couple of decades. Its paint glistens with plentiful luster in the sunshine and little can be found in the way of rock chips, scratches, and scuffs on the totality of the body panels. Matching white cup-style rims complete a slick, sporting image. The convertible top fits taut over its hoops and shows to have barely been exposed to the sun. The story is very much the same with the interior of this 964. Little can be found in the way of wear on even the seats and other common wear points like the shift knob present in equal fashion. Even the carpets on the floor, trunk and parcel shelf appear almost factory fresh. Purposeful with its stripped down door cards, the speedster's back to basics approach means there is little to distract oneself with while behind the wheel. It is a true driver focused environment, although if some musical accompaniment is desired, a modern Alpine radio head unit has been installed in the dashboard. The original Becker unit will accompany the car upon sale along with the vehicle's original books, manuals, tire inflator, back bumper and most importantly, a large collection of service records.

The most recent work on the car included the fitment of 4 new tires and installation of a new battery in 2015. At the time the car also passed a safety inspection, although it should be noted that only several hundred miles have been added to the odometer since then. As such, we recommend servicing the car and inspecting components that are subject to degrading after years of storage. Nevertheless, this Speedster is a wonderful example that will surely provide many happy miles of motoring to its next owner once it is back on the button.