Porsche 993 Turbo S

Porsche Exclusive meticulously crafted 345 examples over two years, with just 183 destined for the U.S. market. These potent coupes were equipped with 3.6-liter flat-six engines featuring the X50 Power Package, producing 430 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 423 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. These light-alloy powerplants boasted a pair of enlarged K24 turbochargers, enhancing mid-range and top speed performance, complemented by a substantial intercooler nestled beneath the engine cover. An additional oil cooler was incorporated to better manage the increased underhood heat, while an upgraded Bosch Motronic engine management system kept fuel and spark under precise control.

The Turbo S transmitted its immense power to the road through a six-speed manual transmission with limited-slip differential, coupled to a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system – a technological marvel first developed for the legendary 959 of the mid-1980s. Visually, the Turbo S was distinguished by an Aerokit II bi-plane rear wing, enlarged from that of its 964 Turbo S predecessor. The façade featured redesigned front air intake ducting, replacing the integrated fog lamps, while special air inlets reminiscent of the 959 adorned the rear quarters. A new exhaust system with quad outlets and Litronic headlamps further accentuated its purposeful appearance. Model-specific badging adorned both the exterior and interior.

The Turbo S rode on Porsche’s iconic “Turbo-twist” five-spoke light-alloy wheels, measuring 8 by 18 and 10 by 18 inches, finished in a proprietary “metal gloss effect” paint by Cetelon – a hue reserved exclusively for this model. Concealed behind these bespoke wheels resided substantial 12.6-inch power-assisted, ventilated, and cross-drilled multi-piston disc brakes, delivering exceptional stopping power. Performance figures were nothing short of breathtaking: the zero to 60 mph sprint was dispatched in barely four seconds, while the quarter-mile flashed past in about 12 seconds. Given room to run, the Turbo S could see a maximum of nearly 185 mph. Yet this was not a bone-shaking, full-on racing car. This most-developed, force-fed 911 was lavishly trimmed and well-equipped.

The original window sticker of this rare 993-generation 911 Turbo S shows that it was initially delivered to Copans Motors Inc. – better known as Champion Porsche – in Pompano Beach, Florida, optioned with supple leather seats featuring Porsche-crested headrests and driver’s-side lumbar support. As with all 993 Turbo S models, this example features the distinctive Aerokit II front and rear spoilers, front brake cooling ducts, quad exhaust tips, and 959-style air intakes in the rear quarters. The model’s unique exterior features are further accentuated by its Black paintwork, Speed Yellow-finished brake calipers, and 18-inch hollow-spoke wheels with Porsche crest center caps. It features a matching Black full leather interior, complemented by carbon fiber trim on the dashboard, door panels, and instrument surround. Additional bespoke touches include aluminum-look instrument dials, aluminum shifter and handbrake inlays, stainless steel door sills with model designation, and “Turbo S” embroidered carpet in the luggage compartment.

With its first entry in 2005, the accompanying CARFAX Vehicle History Report shows that the Turbo S spent a significant portion of its life in Washington, benefiting from regular servicing at Porsche Bellevue and Ferrari of Seattle. Subsequent purchase and registration history indicates that the car spent time in Ohio, California, Florida, and Texas. In 2020, it was entrusted to Canepa of Scotts Valley, California, for comprehensive detailing and refreshment. Notable work included the replacement of the original clear stone guards, steam cleaning of the chassis, refinishing of the wheels, and mounting and balancing of four new Michelin Pilot Sport tires. The brake system was flushed and bled, and a new alternator and fan belts were also installed during this time. A comprehensive binder documents the $23,000 in work performed.

The 911 Turbo S coupe as created by Porsche Exclusive delivered brilliant performance in a highly civilized package; it was subtle enough to be driven quietly on a daily basis, but capable of mind-bending acceleration and road-holding on demand. In the past 25 years the limited production Turbo S has become one of the most collectible variants of Porsche’s final air-cooled Turbo and with prodigious power, styling cues all its own, classic 911 good-looks, and in the case of this particular example, with extremely low miles and recent servicing, it looks to remain so. For the Porsche purist, there may be no more sought-after model.