FYI: Porsche’s new one-off 993 Speedster showcases the build-to-order potential of their Sonderwunsch program, representing a blend of legacy and modernity.
Porsche’s Latest 993 Speedster: A Modern Classic Unveiled at Monterey
Porsche didn’t invent the term "speedster," but they’ve certainly made it their own. First appearing on the lightweight, open-top 356 Speedster of the 1950s, the designation has become synonymous with the iconic German automaker. After a long hiatus, the Speedster name returned in 1989 with the 911 Speedster, specifically the 964 generation. The 993 generation was slated for a Speedster variant but never materialized, save for a single prototype for Ferdinand "FA" Porsche’s 60th birthday in 1995.
Third 993 Speedster: A One-Off Marvel
Twenty-nine years after the first 993 Speedster, Porsche has produced another exclusive model, showcased this Friday at Monterey. This third 993 Speedster was built for Luca Trazzi, a noted Speedster aficionado, through Porsche’s Sonderwunsch (Special Wishes) program. The transformation of a regular 1994 Carrera Cabriolet into this unique two-seater took three years.
A Collector’s Passion
Luca Trazzi, a lifelong Speedster fan, was instrumental in the design process. "As a boy, I fell in love with the pure Porsche Speedster. I worked very hard to buy my first Porsche, a 1955 Speedster 1600 Super. Since then, I have lived my passion, or more precisely, my life as a Speedster fanatic," says Trazzi. Trazzi aimed to unify style elements from all previous Speedster models, maintaining the series’ historical elegance while ensuring modern touches.
Unique Design Features
Unlike other 993 Speedsters, Trazzi had substantial input in the design, directing Porsche to reshape the rear clamshell to his liking. The car boasts 18-inch turbo-style twisted wheels, modern black accents, conical exterior mirrors reminiscent of the 1950s, and Porsche’s signature "four-point" headlights that resonate with 2024 models. The car’s distinctive yellow hue, named "Otto Yellow" after Trazzi’s dog, adds a personal touch to this exclusive vehicle.
Enhanced Performance
To elevate the driving experience, Trazzi opted for Carrera RS-spec running gear, chassis bracing, suspension, and brakes. This choice resulted in a significant power boost, with the car’s 3.8-liter engine now producing over 300 horsepower, up from the original 247.
Showcasing Sonderwunsch Customization
Porsche plans to use this unique model as a promotional tool for its Sonderwunsch program during Monterey Car Week, highlighting their capability to create ultra-exclusive, one-off vehicles. After its showing at The Quail, the Speedster will be shipped to Europe and delivered to its new owner.
Conclusion
Porsche’s 993 Speedster project not only serves as a testament to the brand’s rich history of bespoke automotive craftsmanship but also underscores the evolving nature of their design philosophy. With programs like Sonderwunsch, Porsche demonstrates that they are capable of blending the legacy of their classic models with the personalized touches that modern collectors crave.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
