UPDATE: Our 2019 Porsche 911 Speedster First Review is now available
- Pays homage to the original 356 Speedster
- Limited to just 1,948 units worldwide
- Based on outgoing Type 991 chassis
- 503-hp flat-6, borrowed from the GT3
- Base price of $274,500 (plus fees)
Porsche has been making speedster variants – open-top models with a focus on driving pleasure – since 1952. As of 2010, eight different production and special models have worn the “Speedster” badge, including the 1957 356 A 1500 GS Carrera GT Speedster. The most recent, the 997-based 2010 911 Speedster, was limited to just 356 units worldwide – it sold out nearly immediately.
As has been tradition with the German automaker celebrating the end of a model cycle, the company has introduced a production version of a 991-based speedster, which was first shown in concept form last year. The now production-ready 2019 Porsche 911 Speedster pays homage to the original 356 that debuted in 1948 – thus explaining why Porsche will limit it to just 1,948 units worldwide
What makes the Porsche 911 Speedster different?
The production 911 Speedster borrows from the best of Porsche’s parts bin. The vehicle’s bodywork is based on the 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet – with fenders, fascias, and rear bonnet made of lightweight carbon fiber (including two streamers atop the rear decklid). The windshield is low cut – a speedster signature – and the side windows are equally as diminutive. The manual top is crafted of lightweight fabric. The 2019 911 Speedster weighs just 3,230 pounds.
The interior of the vehicles is just as unique – with lightweight door panels, door pulls (instead of handles), and standard black leather upholstery. There are various “Speedster” model designations throughout the cabin, paying tribute to the model’s heritage.
How fast is the Porsche 911 Speedster?
According to the automaker, the 0-60 mph sprint takes just 3.8 seconds with a top speed of 192 mph. The 2019 Porsche 911 Speedster borrows from the GT3 parts bin, which includes a naturally-aspirated 4.0 liter flat-six engine rated at 502 horsepower and 346 lb-ft of torque – redline is a stratospheric 9,000 rpm. Unlike the standard GT3, the 911 Speedster uses individual throttle intakes from the 911 GT3 R race car – improving throttle response even further. A 6-speed manual is the only gearbox, maximizing driving engagement.
Check out the new and redesigned cars of 2019
How well does the 2019 Porsche 911 Speedster handle?
With a chassis derived from the track-ready 911 GT3 models, the 911 Speedster has the DNA of a race car. Standard rear axle steering, dynamic engine mounts, 20-inch center lock wheels (wrapped in ultra-high-performance tires), and Porsche’s highly celebrated standard PCCB (Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake) system ensure that the vehicle steers, handles, and stops exceptionally well.
How much does the 2019 Porsche 911 Speedster cost?
The MSRP for the 2019 Porsche 911 Speedster is $274,500 (not including $1,250 delivery, processing and handling fee). Customers may place their orders beginning on May 7, 2019, with delivery expected in late 2019.
