Porsche 964 Turbo Flachbau

An updated version of the Turbo based on the 964-series arrived for the 1990 model year. Stated to be 85% new, the 964’s most discernible visual change was better integrated and more aerodynamic bumpers. Other advances included ABS brakes, power steering, air bags, and a more robust air-conditioning system. Underneath, the model rode on a redesigned chassis with light-alloy control arms and coil springs instead of the previous torsion-bar setup.

The 964 Turbo was initially fitted with the same turbo lag-prone 3.3-liter engine from the 930. For 1993, Porsche launched a 911 Turbo 3.6 that incorporated an enlarged M64 flat-six engine that was finally able to deliver its 355 hp more linearly and predictably. As production of the improved 3.6-liter Turbo neared its end in late 1993, approximately 93 Turbo coupes were said to remain in inventory. Porsche subsequently decided to deliver these to its Exclusive Department to be reconceived as special Turbo S models.

Turbo S models received an uprated engine with an X88 designation. Derived from a unit built by Andial for the Florida-based Brumos Racing team, the M64/50S engine developed 380 hp at 5,750 rpm – 25 more than standard although many experts consider this figure underrated – and 384 lbs./ft. of torque and was mated to an upgraded G50/52 five-speed manual gearbox with a limited-slip differential. The extra power came courtesy of a larger KKK turbocharger, modified cylinder heads, higher-lift camshafts, and revised air intake. Still impressive today, testers in the period established that the Turbo S ran 0–60 mph in about 4.0 seconds onto a 174 mph top speed.

The majority of Turbo S production was fitted with an X83 (Japanese market), X84 (Rest of World), or X85 (North America) Flachbau – or flatnose – front-end treatment with exposed 928-style pop-up headlights. However, with the urging of Michael Winkler, the Porsche North America regional manager at the time, 17 “Package” examples were built for the US with standard front fenders and traditional upright 911 headlights. Other distinguishing changes included an uprated suspension, front-mounted oil cooler, X99 asymmetrical 959-style rear fender vents, unique X92/93 front splitter and body-color whale-tail rear spoiler, four-outlet exhaust, as well as 18” “Speedline for Porsche” modular alloy wheels.

This 1994 Porsche 964 Turbo S 3.6 is one of the aforementioned 17 original “Package” cars. Completed by the factory on January 13, 1994, this Turbo S is finished in black over a full black leather interior with red piping. Apart from the standard combination of Turbo S “Package” features, this example was additionally specified with an electric sliding sunroof, supple leather seats, a six-disc CD changer, and dashboard trim covered in red leather.

Registering less than 41,000 miles on its odometer at the time of cataloguing, this Turbo S is supplied with its books, COA, tools, keys, jack, collapsible spare tire, air compressor, and original window sticker displaying a total suggested retail price of $127,434 including destination charge. A January 2020 invoice on file indicates that specialist Rennsport Porsche Works of Sealy, Texas, undertook an engine-out rebuild, as well as replaced the brakes, shocks, and springs at all four corners. According to the consignor, an oil change was performed in October 2022.

Presenting very well throughout, this car is understood to have been fully repainted in its original factory hue at some point in its lifetime and is currently maintained within a private East Coast collection that at various times has housed significant Porsche Turbo models ranging from an early three-liter 930 to a 959. One of just 17 Turbo S 3.6 “Package” cars built, this example represents a unique opportunity for the discerning Porsche collector.