The Porsche 911 Speedster, a breathtaking embodiment of open-top driving pleasure and motorsport heritage, has officially entered production. Born from the iconic 911 lineage and drawing inspiration from Porsche’s rich history, this limited-edition model delivers an unfiltered, exhilarating driving experience. With production limited to just 1,948 units, the Porsche 911 Speedster convertible is set to become a highly coveted collector’s item, representing the pinnacle of Porsche’s dedication to performance and driving purity.
A Nod to History, Engineered for Today
The 911 Speedster concept car, unveiled at the “70 Years of Porsche Sports Cars” celebration, generated significant excitement, and the production model stays true to its captivating design. This open-top two-seater seamlessly blends the spirit of a purist, driver-focused machine with cutting-edge motorsport technology, making it equally at home on winding roads and city streets. Developed on the foundation of the acclaimed 911 R (2016) and 911 GT3, the Speedster promises exceptional performance and handling.
At the heart of the 911 Speedster lies a high-revving, naturally aspirated four-litre boxer engine, delivering a potent 510 PS (375 kW). This engine, coupled with a crisp six-speed GT manual transmission, ensures an engaging and visceral connection between driver and machine. Visually, the new Speedster serves as a bridge to Porsche’s illustrious past, echoing the design language of the legendary 356 “No. 1” Roadster from 1948, the very first Porsche sports car. The production numbers themselves – 1,948 units – are a direct homage to this foundational year in Porsche history. Production commenced in mid-2019 at Porsche’s Zuffenhausen plant in Germany.
Design Highlights: The Iconic Double-Bubble and Lightweight Construction
A defining visual element of the Porsche 911 Speedster convertible is the meticulously sculpted convertible top compartment lid, featuring the signature double-bubble streamliners. This iconic feature, a hallmark of Speedster models since the 1988 911 Speedster, is not just aesthetically striking but also a testament to Porsche’s engineering prowess. Constructed from a single piece of carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP), it stands as the largest and most complex component of its kind ever utilized by Porsche in a road-going model. Integrated within the double bubbles are trim elements that cleverly accommodate the roll-over protection system, a standard safety feature shared with the 911 Carrera Cabriolet.
Replacing the concept vehicle’s basic tonneau cover is a weight-optimized roof structure. Despite its purist design intent, the fabric convertible top is engineered for everyday usability. Combined with shortened window frames, lowered cowl top panels, and smaller side windows, the soft top contributes to the 911 Speedster’s distinctive athletic profile and excitingly low fly line, reminiscent of classic Porsche designs like the 1954 Porsche 356 Speedster.
Operating the convertible top is designed for ease and speed. A central locking hook at the windscreen frame and side fins on the fabric roof release at the touch of a button. The lightweight carbon fiber rear lid electrically unlocks and partially slides back, allowing manual positioning for the fabric roof to fold into a Z-shape behind the front seats. Closing the roof is equally straightforward, requiring manual engagement of the roof fins into their holders.
Lightweight construction extends beyond the roof compartment lid. The bonnet, crafted from carbon-fibre composite, is a remarkable two kilograms lighter than that of the 911 GT3. Carbon-fibre composite wings, shared with the 911 R, further contribute to weight reduction. While the front apron is derived from the GT3, the front spoiler lip is a unique, newly developed component. Departing from the Talbot mirrors of the concept, the production Speedster features electrically adjustable and heated Sport Design exterior mirrors. Aerodynamic efficiency is enhanced by the extending rear spoiler and rear apron adopted from the 911 GT3 Touring.
Interior Elegance and Performance Focus
The interior of the 911 Speedster convertible reflects a blend of sporty elegance and functional minimalism. Black leather accents adorn the side bolsters and head restraints of the carbon-fibre composite full bucket seats, as well as the door trim armrests and shortened gear lever. Perforated leather seat center panels add a touch of visual and tactile appeal, while lightweight door panels with black door pulls and stowage nets further contribute to weight savings.
“Speedster” logos are subtly integrated into the head restraints, visible carbon door sills, and the central rev counter. The instrument cluster, with its black dials, white needles, and green digits and scales, evokes the classic aesthetic of the original Porsche 356 Speedster. A limited-edition badge on the cross structure behind the front seats proudly displays the serial number of each of the 1,948 individually numbered Porsche 911 Speedster convertibles.
Heritage Design Package: A Touch of Golden Era Style
For those seeking an even deeper connection to Porsche’s heritage, the 911 Speedster is optionally available with a Heritage Design package. Priced at 21,634.20 Euro in Germany (including VAT), this package, curated by Style Porsche and executed by Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, reimagines classic design elements from the 1950s and 1960s. The interior color scheme shifts to an elegant Black and Cognac combination with sophisticated gold accents.
Exterior enhancements include distinctive “spears” paintwork in White on the front fascia and front wings, applied over the base GT Silver Metallic paint. Historic-looking motorsport decals for the doors and front lid complete the visual transformation. Owners can personalize their Speedster further by selecting their own two-digit start numbers, as showcased in promotional imagery. Porsche crests and gold-colored logos, faithful to the designs of the 50s and 60s, add the final touches of vintage charm.
Performance Engineering: The Heart of a GT Car
The soul of the new 911 Speedster convertible is inherited from the 911 GT3. Its naturally aspirated, four-litre, six-cylinder boxer engine is a purebred GT powerplant. Reaching peak power of 510 PS at 8,400 rpm and a maximum engine speed of 9,000 rpm, it delivers exhilarating performance across the rev range. The engine produces a maximum torque of 470 Newton metres at 6,250 rpm, enabling the 911 Speedster to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 4.0 seconds and achieve a top speed of 310 km/h.
While adhering to stringent Euro 6d TEMP EVAP-ISC (EU6 DG) emission standards with the inclusion of two gasoline particulate filters (GPF), the Speedster’s engine actually gains 10 PS compared to the previous 911 GT3. This increase is attributed to refined details, including high-pressure fuel injectors with optimized spray patterns and a modified intake system featuring individual throttle valves for more immediate throttle response. A newly developed lightweight stainless steel sports exhaust system, including the particulate filters, shaves off 10 kilograms of weight.
Staying true to its driver-centric nature, the 911 Speedster is exclusively offered with a manual six-speed sports transmission. It incorporates an auto-blip function that precisely and automatically compensates for engine speed differences during downshifts, enhancing smoothness and control. Auto-blip can be engaged independently of the selected PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) setting. A mechanical rear differential lock with asymmetric locking action completes the sporty powertrain.
The GT philosophy extends to the chassis. Sharing technology with the 911 GT3 and 911 R, the Speedster features sporty rear-axle steering and dynamic engine mounts. Control systems such as Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV), Porsche Stability Management (PSM), and PASM with sports tuning and a 25-millimetre lower ride height are meticulously calibrated to the Speedster’s unique characteristics. The car rides on 20-inch forged Speedster alloy wheels with center locks. Standard equipment includes PCCB brakes (Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake) with internally vented and perforated ceramic composite brake discs, ensuring exceptional stopping power.
Limited Availability and Exclusive Timepieces
Priced from 269,274 euros in Germany (including VAT and country-specific equipment), the Porsche 911 Speedster convertible was available for order immediately upon announcement. Reflecting its exclusivity, Porsche Design Timepieces created special chronographs exclusively for 911 Speedster owners: the Porsche Design “911 Speedster chronograph” and the “911 Speedster Heritage Design chronograph.” Limited to 1,948 pieces each, these timepieces could be ordered through Porsche Centers worldwide from May 2019, priced at 9,950 euros (including VAT), further enhancing the ownership experience for this exceptional and rare Porsche.
Please note that fuel consumption and CO2 emission values are based on WLTP standards and NEDC derived values are provided for the time being. Consult official guidelines for accurate and up-to-date information.
