Porsche debuts one-off 993 Speedster at Monterey Car Week
Porsche recently unveiled a unique one-off 993 Speedster at Monterey Car Week. The 993 Speedster was not officially offered by Porsche, but an Italian collector commissioned the automaker to create one. This marks the first one-off restoration from Porsche’s Sonderwunsch department.
Italian designer Luca Trazzi collaborated with Porsche Sonderwunsch to design the 993 Speedster. Trazzi, a collector of Porsche Speedsters, desired a 993 model for his collection. Since Porsche had never produced a 993 Speedster, this special project allowed Trazzi to create his dream car. The 993 Speedster is based on a 993 Carrera Cabriolet and features a unique cut-down windshield, black 18-inch Turbo twist wheels with body-colored pinstriping, retro-styled mirrors, yellow-and-black checkered-flag trim on the seats, and headlights with the four-dot running light design. The car is painted in a special yellow hue named after Trazzi’s dog, Otto.
Incorporating design elements from the 993 Turbo and the original 911 Speedster of 1989, the 993 Speedster also boasts running gear from the 993 Carrera RS, including a 3.8-liter flat-six engine producing 300 horsepower. Trazzi was involved in the build process, including watching the bodyshell being galvanized and applying some of the paint. This project showcases Porsche’s Sonderwunsch program, which allows select customers to work with the automaker to create unique, customized vehicles.
### Porsche’s Sonderwunsch program
Porsche’s Sonderwunsch program, which translates to “special wishes,” enables customers to collaborate with the automaker to fulfill their unique automotive desires. The program allows customers to customize production models or even commission one-off restorations, like the 993 Speedster. While Porsche has created special models for iconic figures such as Ferry Porsche and Jerry Seinfeld, the 993 Speedster represents the first one-off restoration for a private customer through the Sonderwunsch department. This illustrates Porsche’s commitment to fulfilling the special wishes of their most discerning clients.
### Design and features of the 993 Speedster
The 993 Speedster showcases a blend of retro-inspired design elements and modern enhancements. Unique features include a cut-down windshield, black Turbo twist wheels with pinstriping, retro-styled mirrors, and yellow-and-black checkered-flag trim on the seats. The car’s color, a special yellow hue named after Trazzi’s dog, adds a personal touch to the design. Embracing elements from the 993 Turbo and the original 911 Speedster, the 993 Speedster pays homage to Porsche’s rich heritage while incorporating modern technologies and performance enhancements.
### Performance specifications and build process
The 993 Speedster is powered by a 3.8-liter flat-six engine sourced from the 993 Carrera RS, delivering 300 horsepower. The car’s chassis, brakes, and other running gear are also based on the Carrera RS, enhancing performance and driving dynamics. Throughout the build process, Trazzi was actively involved, witnessing key stages such as the galvanizing of the bodyshell and applying paint to the vehicle. This hands-on approach allowed Trazzi to personalize his 993 Speedster and contribute to the creation of his dream car.
### Pricing and exclusivity of the 993 Speedster
While the exact cost of the 993 Speedster project remains undisclosed, Porsche’s Sonderwunsch program typically starts at $100,000 for custom commissions. However, the price can escalate significantly based on the level of customization and complexity involved. The 993 Speedster exemplifies the pinnacle of bespoke automotive creations, showcasing Porsche’s craftsmanship and attention to detail. As one of the few examples of a one-off restoration by Porsche, the 993 Speedster represents the ultimate expression of exclusivity and personalized driving experience.