The Best Air-Cooled Porsche 911s Ever Created

Why It's On The List

We considered adding the Targa from 1967, but ultimately we felt the 911 S was a more important model. The 911 S was introduced to increase the performance potential of the very successful 911. It had a more powerful engine along with a number of chassis enhancements that made it very desirable. Becoming the flag­ship of the fleet, the $6990, 180-hp, 6-cylinder 911S was loaded with per­formance and luxury features.

Distinctive 5-leaf wheels from Fuchs that were made from forged magnesium-alloy, a leather-covered steering wheel rim, extra instrumentation, an auxiliary gaso­line heater, fog lights, pile carpets, and waffled padding on the dash (all pretty luxurious back in 1967 folks).

The tradition of race-inspired 911s really started here. A 2.0-liter flat-six producing 180-hp with a 7,200 rpm redline in 1967 was pretty special. This was clearly a more powerful and sportier car and much better than other cars of the same era.

Why It's On The List

In 1967, you could walk into a Porsche dealer and buy a 911 S which was essentially the pumped up 911. No so the 911 R. To take the newly released 911 to its limit, Porsche developed a small series of racing versions that focused primarily on weight reduction. These racers were the first among a series of 911s that would dominate GT racing for over 40 years. Only 23 were built.

Four prototypes initially surfaced from Porsche’s experimental department in Spring of 1967. Every possible component was replaced by a lightweight counterpart. With the standard interior deleted, lightweight windows, fiberglass doors, hood, engine cover and bumpers, the 911R was only 1786 lbs (810 kg), some 500 lbs (230 kg) less than the standard 911! Wow.

Included was the Type 901/22 engine from the Carrera 906 with a standard alloy crankcase. Most cars used Weber 46 IDA3C carburetors, while some featured the mechanical Bosch fuel injection system. Optionally the four-cam Type 901/21 engine which produced 230 bhp (171 Kw) was available. With this engine, the 911 R accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and could cover a distance of one kilometre from a standstill in just 24.2 seconds – one second faster than a Porsche 904 Carrera GTS and a full 5 seconds faster than an Alfa Romeo GTA.

Outwardly, the 911 was distinguished by flared wheel arches, smaller bumpers and distinctive circular rear lights. In detail, the extent of the 911R program becomes apparent with details such as a bank of louvers in the rear quarter windows, plastic door hinges and wider Fuchs alloy wheels.

While initially conceived to race in the sports car class, the R never met homologation requirements and was forced to race with the potent prototype classes. With an estimated sales price of 45,000 DM, a 911 R was nearly twice as expensive as a regular 911 S and did not sell enough units (500 were needed for homologation). The 911 R would have contributed much more to the 911’s legacy had Porsche filled its 500 car requirement for homologation.

Why It's On The List

The Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 is not just the most important 911 collector car—it is the origin point for everything enthusiasts value about Porsche today. Built to homologate the 911 for Group 4 racing, the RS 2.7 was never intended to be a luxury road car or a marketing exercise. It existed because Porsche needed to go racing—and the result was a machine so perfectly balanced that it permanently redefined what a road-going sports car could be.

What elevates the RS 2.7 above every other early 911 is its purity of intent. Weight reduction was obsessive, engineering decisions were ruthless, and every change served performance. The car introduced the now-iconic ducktail spoiler—not for aesthetics, but to stabilize the rear at speed. The suspension was sharpened, the engine uprated, and unnecessary comfort items removed. Nothing about the RS is accidental, and that clarity still resonates five decades later.

From behind the wheel, the RS 2.7 feels alive in a way few cars—before or since—can match. Steering feedback is telepathic, throttle response is immediate, and the chassis communicates every surface change and grip transition. This is the car that taught generations of enthusiasts what “driver-focused” truly means.

As a collector car, the RS 2.7 sits in an untouchable position. It combines motorsport pedigree, cultural significance, and genuine usability in a way that no later RS has fully replicated.

Why It's On The List

During a successful 1973, Porsche took the opportunity to develop an evolution of the RS 2.7 (having now met stricter requirements of building 1000 road cars per year in line with Group 3 rules). A quirk in the Group 3 rules allowed previously homologated cars (like the RS 2.7), to be homologated with just 100 examples built. So in 1974, Porsche launched the Carrera RS 3.0. It was almost twice as expensive as the 2.7 RS but was much more of a track machine. The chassis was similar to the ’73 Carrera RSR and the brake system was from the Porsche 917. It was a continuation of the race cars for the road trend that all of us Porsche fans love so much.

The 3.0 made 230hp with what was basically as detuned 3.0-liter RSR engine with an aluminum (rather than magnesium) crankcase and street exhaust fitted in place of the open racing unit. Cylinder heads were single-plug rather than the racing twin-plug type, and the compression ratio was given a significant bump over the outgoing 2.7’s 8.5:1 ratio, though it still runs on the equivalent of 93 octane U.S. pump gas.

With its systematic lightweight construction the RS 3.0 only weighed in at 900 kg. This low weight was achieved by using thin-gauge sheet parts and by basically removing parts and equipment from all over the place. Brakes were upgraded to larger four-piston units and the suspension was revised with RSR rear pick-up points allowing for more camber adjustment. There was a five-speed gearbox and limited-slip differential, and the fenders were widened even further to accommodate 8.0-inch wheels up front and 9.0-inches in the rear. The RS 3.0 also had the taller, larger bumpers introduced in all 1974 911s and the new rear “tray”-style spoiler.

Before you ask we love both the RS 2.7 and RS 3.0 the same. The 2.7 is the ultimate dual-purpose 911 from the era. Somebody once nailed it when they said: “The RS 2.7 is 80 percent 911 S. The RS 3.0 is 80 percent RSR.”

Why It's On The List

In 1974 Porsche introduced the first production turbocharged 911. In Europe it was called the Porsche 911 Turbo and in the United States it was called the Porsche 930. It looked different than the normal 911s, with wider wheel-arches, bigger wheels and tires and a large rear “whale tail” spoiler. Starting out with a 3.0L engine with 260 hp, it rose to 3.3L and 300 hp for 1978. Only in 1989, its last year of production, was the 930 equipped with a five-speed gearbox. The 930 was replaced in 1990 with a 964 version featuring the same 3.3L engine. There have been turbocharged variants of each subsequent generation of 911.

The Porsche 911 Turbo 3.3-liter (930) is one of the most culturally significant Porsches ever built—and the market is increasingly treating it that way. While early 3.0-liter Turbos established the legend, it was the intercooled 3.3-liter cars that cemented the 930 as an icon, blending fearsome performance with visual drama and real-world usability. Today, that combination is driving a renewed and durable appreciation cycle.

At a fundamental level, the 930 represents Porsche’s first truly successful attempt to tame turbocharging for the road—without sanitizing it. The 3.3-liter engine brought an intercooler, improved durability, and more usable torque, but it retained the defining trait that made the Turbo famous: boost delivered on its own terms. Lag, surge, and rear-engine weight transfer weren’t engineered out—they were embraced. In a modern context, where turbocharging is invisible and algorithmically managed, the 930’s raw behavior feels increasingly special.

Just as important is the 930’s visual and cultural permanence. The wide body, massive rear wing, deep front spoiler, and unmistakable stance created a design language Porsche still references today. This isn’t nostalgia—it’s brand DNA. Few cars are as instantly recognizable across generations, and cars that define a brand’s silhouette tend to perform exceptionally well as long-term investments.

Why It's On The List

The Porsche 911 SC occupies a uniquely important place in 911 history, representing the moment Porsche quietly perfected the original air-cooled formula. Introduced during a turbulent period for the company—when the future of the 911 itself was uncertain—the SC (Super Carrera) was conceived as a simplified, more durable, and more profitable evolution of the G-Series cars. What emerged was not a flashy halo model, but a deeply cohesive sports car that balanced performance, reliability, and everyday usability better than almost any 911 before it.

At the heart of the 911 SC was its 3.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six, an engine derived from Porsche’s racing program and tuned for longevity rather than outright edge. Power gradually increased over the model run, but the real achievement was robustness: improved materials, stronger internals, and a reputation for surviving high mileage with proper care. Combined with the classic rear-engine layout, unassisted steering, and compact dimensions, the SC delivered the pure mechanical feedback that defines the classic 911 driving experience—engaging without being intimidating.

The SC also marked a turning point in build quality and usability. Galvanized bodywork dramatically improved rust resistance, while interior refinement made the car more livable as a daily driver without diluting its character. Offered as a coupe, Targa, and Cabriolet, the SC broadened the 911’s appeal and laid the groundwork for the modern “do-everything” sports car Porsche would later master. Importantly, it proved that the 911 could evolve without losing its soul. It may lack the motorsport mystique of an RS or the drama of a Turbo, but its balance, durability, and timeless design have earned it lasting respect.

Why It's On The List

The Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 is widely regarded as the definitive expression of the classic, impact-bumper 911. Introduced as the successor to the SC, it represented a clear step forward in performance, refinement, and engineering confidence—without abandoning the raw, mechanical character that defined earlier air-cooled cars. For many enthusiasts, the Carrera 3.2 strikes the ideal balance between vintage feel and modern usability, making it one of the most complete classic 911s Porsche ever produced.

Power came from the new 3.2-liter flat-six, featuring Bosch Motronic engine management that improved throttle response, efficiency, and reliability. With stronger mid-range torque and a broader powerband than the SC, the Carrera felt faster and more flexible in real-world driving, while still rewarding drivers who worked the engine hard. The steering remained unassisted and richly communicative.

Beyond the drivetrain, the Carrera 3.2 benefited from meaningful upgrades in build quality and durability. Fully galvanized bodywork, improved interiors, and stronger mechanical components made it a car that could be driven regularly without sacrificing longevity. The later introduction of the G50 gearbox further refined the experience, offering a more precise and confidence-inspiring shift that many consider the best manual transmission fitted to a classic 911.

Today, the Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 is seen as a high-water mark of the air-cooled era before electronics and complexity began to dominate.

Why It's On The List

The Porsche 911 SC RS is one of the most legitimate homologation cars Porsche ever built—and one of the least talked about. Created to homologate the 911 for Group B rally competition, the SC RS wasn’t designed to celebrate heritage or excite showroom buyers. It was built because Porsche wanted to go rallying seriously, and regulations demanded a road-going production run. The result is a car that feels far closer to a works competition machine than a conventional RS.

What makes the SC RS unique within the 911 collector hierarchy is its rally-first DNA. Unlike the circuit-focused RS and RSR models before it, the SC RS was engineered to survive brutal surfaces, long stages, and real-world punishment. Reinforced bodyshells, seam welding, adjustable suspension, lightweight panels, and stripped interiors defined the package. This is a 911 designed to be driven hard on imperfect roads—something no other RS truly prioritized.

From behind the wheel, the SC RS feels raw, mechanical, and utterly purpose-built. Power delivery is linear and tractable rather than peaky, ideal for rally conditions. Steering is heavy and communicative, and the chassis feels extraordinarily rigid for an impact-bumper-era 911. It lacks the romanticism of a 2.7 RS or the elegance of a 964 RS—but it replaces that with functional brutality.

Why It's On The List

The Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 Clubsport represents one of the purest factory-built driver-focused 911s of the classic era. Conceived as a homologation-style special rather than a marketing exercise, the Clubsport stripped the already excellent Carrera 3.2 down to its essentials. Porsche’s goal was simple: remove weight, sharpen responses, and deliver a road car that felt as close to a racing 911 as possible—without increasing power or compromising the underlying mechanical integrity.

Mechanically, the Clubsport shared the same 3.2-liter flat-six as the standard Carrera, but the transformation came through weight reduction. Porsche deleted rear seats, sound insulation, electric accessories, undercoating, and even passenger sun visors, resulting in a car that was roughly 100 kg (220 lb) lighter. Combined with shorter gearing, stiffer suspension tuning, and reduced rotational mass, the Clubsport felt noticeably more urgent and alive, with razor-sharp throttle response and a heightened sense of connection between driver, chassis, and road.

What truly set the Clubsport apart was its character. This was not a luxury sports car or a daily driver—it was a deliberate throwback to Porsche’s competition ethos. The steering was unfiltered, the cabin loud and purposeful, and the driving experience demanded full engagement at all times. It rewarded commitment, punished complacency, and delivered a level of feedback that few road cars—then or now—can match.

Today, the Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 Clubsport is revered as a rare and uncompromising expression of Porsche’s lightweight philosophy. Built in extremely limited numbers, it has become a benchmark for what an analog, driver-first 911 should be. In hindsight, the Clubsport foreshadowed the GT and RS models that would follow, making it not just one of the greatest classic 911s—but a foundational car in Porsche’s modern performance lineage.

Why It's On The List

The 911 Speedster was introduced alongside the new 964 Porsche Carrera 4 at the 1988 Frankfurt Show.

It was immediately popular amongst Porsche buyers. Unlike the 964 prototype this Porsche 911 Speedster catered to comfort. It was basically a low-roof version of the Cabriolet and was produced in limited numbers (2,104) as both a narrow body car and a Turbo-look. The Speedster started as a design under Helmuth Bott in 1983 but was not manufactured until six years later.

This was the last vehicle with the old 911 body and that’s why it makes our list of greatest 911s. The Speedster stole some body bits from the 930 Turbo as well as the Turbo’s beefier chassis and heavy-duty four-piston cross-drilled disc brakes. The Speedster is best known for its double-hump cover design .

Undeniably, the Speedster had “collectible” written all over it, and all 2,100 were quickly snapped up by would-be profiteers.

Why It's On The List

Mechanically, the Porsche 930 LE was essentially identically to the slantnose SE. However, the LE – shorthand for ‘Limited Edition’ – stuck with the Porsche 911’s idiosyncratic raised front wings but gained a deep, 934-esque chin spoiler. Just one example was delivered to each contemporary Porsche Centre for a total of 50 rare units.

The reason this 930 makes our list was because almost everybody thought it would be the last ever 911 Turbo. The 964 Porsche was on its way and many thought that meant the end of the Turbo range. Porsche went ahead and made this limited edition. The original list price for the 930 LE was a staggering £84,492 (its close to £300,000 in today’s money). With the 930 LE, Porsche went out of its way to create the ultimate Turbo and that is special to us.

Each car started life as a standard 3.3-litre Turbo before being passed over to the ‘Exclusive’ team at Zuffenhausen. Each car was rebuilt by hand to include a host of no-cost options but the coolest thing of all was a final gold plaque on the centre console highlighted the LE’s place at the end of the Turbo’s 15-year tenure as Porsche’s true everyday supercar.

Why It's On The List

The Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Coupe represents one of the most important technological turning points in 911 history. When the 964 debuted in 1989, Porsche fundamentally re-engineered the 911 for the modern era, and the Carrera 4 was the boldest expression of that shift. Introducing all-wheel drive to the 911 for the first time in a production road car, the Carrera 4 redefined what a 911 could be—expanding its performance envelope without abandoning its rear-engine DNA.

The Carrera 4 used a sophisticated AWD system derived from the legendary 959, actively distributing torque to improve traction and stability in all conditions. Paired with the new 3.6-liter air-cooled flat-six, the result was a 911 that felt more planted, confidence-inspiring, and usable at high speeds or in poor weather than any of its predecessors. While slightly heavier than the Carrera 2, the tradeoff came in the form of remarkable composure, making the car easier to drive quickly without dulling the essential 911 character.

Beyond drivetrain innovation, the 964 generation brought sweeping upgrades that transformed the ownership experience. Power steering, ABS, improved climate control, modernized suspension geometry, and a far more refined interior marked the biggest leap forward the 911 had seen since its original debut. Yet despite these advances, the Carrera 4 Coupe retained an unmistakably analog feel—air-cooled sound, mechanical steering feedback, and a chassis that still demanded driver respect and skill.

Today, the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Coupe (964) is increasingly appreciated as the bridge between classic and modern 911s. It preserved the soul of the air-cooled era while introducing technologies that would define Porsche’s future. As a landmark model that expanded the 911’s capabilities without diluting its identity, the 964 Carrera 4 earns its place among the greatest Porsche 911s ever made.

Why It's On The List

A handful of specially prepared lightweight 911s were fabricated by the Porsche factory and called the Carrera 4 RS Lightweight. Built by Porsche’s customer motorsport division, the Porsche 964 Carrera 4 Lightweight programme was Jürgen Barth’s way of keeping his department employed in the wake of Group C’s collapse.

130kg lighter than a 964 RS, the Carrera 4 Lightweight used the four-wheel drive drivetrain from the Dakar-winning 953 rally car and was originally envisaged for off-road use. The cars employed the same six-cylinder 3600cc boxer engine as the 260hp “regular” RS, but produced some 40 more horsepower due to the exclusion of catalytic converters and mufflers.

The RS Lightweight earned its name thanks to the combined use of an aluminum front lid, aluminum doors, Plexiglas side windows and a fiberglass rear engine lid. Its overall weight was pared down to 1100kg (2200 lbs) thus making for an exceptional power to weight ratio. For those keeping count that is 350kg (770 lbs) lighter than standard 964 C4. They also added a short ratio 5-speed transmission with lightweight flywheel.

The list of weight reduction features included an aluminum safety cage, two Recaro race seats with five-point safety belts, sport steering wheel coupled to a power assisted steering rack and a type 953 Paris-Dakar transmission. The doors and front hood replaced with aluminum versions and side window glass replaced with plexiglass. Carpeting and sound deadening was removed and left as bare metal.

Why It's On The List

The Porsche 964 Carrera RS is one of the most revered driver-focused 911s ever built, representing Porsche’s uncompromising return to its Rennsport philosophy in the modern era. Developed during a period of financial strain for Porsche, the 964 RS was not designed to chase comfort or broad appeal—it was built to satisfy purists. By stripping away excess weight and luxury, Porsche created a car that distilled the 911 down to its most essential elements, echoing the spirit of the legendary 1973 Carrera RS 2.7.

At its core was a revised 3.6-liter air-cooled flat-six producing sharper throttle response and higher revving urgency than the standard Carrera. Combined with significant weight reduction—through thinner glass, deleted sound insulation, lightweight panels, and minimal interior trim—the RS delivered a dramatically more focused driving experience. The suspension was fully reworked with stiffer springs, adjustable ride height, and aggressive alignment settings, transforming the 964’s behavior into something far more immediate, communicative, and demanding.

What truly defined the 964 Carrera RS was its character. Steering was unassisted, noise levels were high, and ride quality was unapologetically firm—but every input was met with crystal-clear feedback. This was a car that rewarded precision and punished mistakes, offering an intimacy between driver and machine that few road cars could match. On road or track, the RS felt alive in a way that transcended raw numbers, delivering confidence through clarity rather than electronics.

Today, the Porsche 964 Carrera RS is widely regarded as a cornerstone of the modern Porsche GT lineage. It set the template for future RS models by proving that extreme focus, lightness, and mechanical honesty could coexist in a road-legal 911.

Why It's On The List

The Porsche 911 Carrera RS 3.8 is widely considered the ultimate evolution of the 964-era Rennsport philosophy—and one of the most extreme road-legal 911s Porsche has ever produced. Built in very limited numbers primarily for homologation purposes, the RS 3.8 took the already uncompromising 964 Carrera RS and pushed it even further toward motorsport territory. This was not a car designed for comfort or broad appeal; it was a near-race car for the road, created to satisfy Porsche’s most hardcore drivers.

At its heart was a heavily reworked 3.8-liter air-cooled flat-six, producing significantly more power and torque than the standard 3.6-liter RS. Paired with aggressive gearing and extensive weight reduction, the RS 3.8 delivered ferocious throttle response and relentless acceleration for its era. Porsche removed virtually every non-essential component, while wider bodywork, massive brakes, and a prominent rear wing signaled the car’s true intent. The chassis setup was stiff, adjustable, and unapologetically focused on track performance.

What truly separates the RS 3.8 from other Rennsport models is its intensity. Steering is unassisted and brutally communicative, the ride is firm to the point of discomfort on public roads, and the cabin is stripped to racing basics. Every sensation—noise, vibration, feedback—is amplified, creating an experience that demands total concentration from the driver. It is thrilling, raw, and unforgiving, offering rewards only to those willing to meet it on its terms.

Today, the Porsche 911 Carrera RS 3.8 (964) stands as one of the most collectible and revered 911s ever built. It represents the absolute peak of Porsche’s air-cooled, motorsport-derived road cars before the GT era fully took shape. Rare, uncompromising, and breathtakingly focused, the RS 3.8 isn’t just one of the greatest 911s—it’s a benchmark for what a no-excuses driver’s car can be.

Why It's On The List

The Porsche 964 Turbo S Leichtbau exists at the intersection of homologation logic and mechanical madness. Built in tiny numbers and stripped of nearly every non-essential component, this was Porsche asking a simple question: what happens if we take the already ferocious 964 Turbo and remove restraint? The answer was one of the most extreme, intimidating, and collectible road-going 911s ever produced.

Unlike other Turbo models, the Leichtbau was never meant to broaden appeal. It was conceived to support racing programs and to satisfy Porsche’s internal belief that lighter was always better, even when paired with forced induction. Weight reduction was aggressive and unapologetic—thinner glass, stripped interior, minimal sound deadening, fixed-back seats, and lightweight body panels all contributed to a car that felt far closer to a competition special than a luxury supercar.

On the road, the Turbo S Leichtbau is an exercise in respect. Turbo lag is pronounced, boost arrives violently, and the rear-engine, rear-drive layout leaves little margin for error. There are no electronic safety nets to save a careless driver. This is not a forgiving car—but it is a thrilling one, delivering a rawness and intensity that later GT2 models would refine but never truly replicate.

Why It's On The List

The Porsche 911 Turbo S Flachbau stands as one of the most extreme, exotic, and collectible 911s ever produced. Built at the height of Porsche’s bespoke Sonderwunsch (Special Wishes) era, the Turbo S Flachbau combined the fearsome performance of the 964 Turbo S with the iconic flat-nose bodywork inspired by Porsche’s 935 race cars. This was not merely a styling exercise—it was a no-compromise supercar built in vanishingly small numbers for Porsche’s most demanding clientele.

Under the rear decklid sat the uprated 3.6-liter single-turbo flat-six, delivering explosive power and immense torque through the rear wheels. With lightweight construction, aggressive boost tuning, and massive brakes, the Turbo S Flachbau was brutally fast by early-1990s standards—capable of overwhelming acceleration and spine-tingling drama. Unlike later all-wheel-drive Turbos, this rear-drive layout demanded real respect, preserving the raw, high-stakes driving experience that defined Porsche’s most infamous turbocharged 911s.

What truly sets the Flachbau apart is its presence. The slant-nose front end, pop-up headlights, widened bodywork, side strakes, and large rear wing gave the car an unmistakable silhouette—part road car, part endurance racer. Inside, luxury appointments contrasted with the car’s ferocity, reminding drivers that this was both a hand-built showpiece and a serious performance machine. Every detail reinforced its exclusivity, from bespoke trim to its rarity alone.

Today, the Porsche 911 Turbo S Flachbau (964) is regarded as one of the ultimate expressions of the air-cooled Turbo lineage. It represents peak excess, peak performance, and peak individuality from an era when Porsche was willing to build outrageous cars simply because it could. Rare, intimidating, and visually unforgettable, the Flachbau Turbo S earns its place among the greatest—and wildest—Porsche 911s ever made.

Why It's On The List

The Porsche 911 Carrera (993) is widely celebrated as the most refined and complete expression of the air-cooled 911. As the final generation powered by an air-cooled flat-six, the 993 Carrera arrived at a pivotal moment for Porsche—tasked with modernizing the 911 while honoring three decades of mechanical tradition. The result was a car that felt unmistakably classic yet dramatically more polished, cementing its status as one of the most beloved 911s ever built.

Under the rear decklid sat a revised 3.6-liter flat-six with improved breathing, smoother power delivery, and increased reliability. Just as important was the all-new multi-link rear suspension, which transformed the way the 911 handled by taming the traditional lift-off oversteer that had defined earlier models. The 993 retained its rear-engine character but delivered far greater confidence at the limit, making it both faster and more approachable for a wider range of drivers.

The 993 also marked a major leap forward in build quality, refinement, and design. Its wider stance, integrated bumpers, and flowing lines gave it a timeless aesthetic that many consider the most beautiful 911 ever made. Inside, the cabin felt solid and purpose-built, offering improved ergonomics and comfort without losing the focused, driver-centric layout that defines the 911 experience.

Today, the Porsche 911 Carrera (993) is revered as the end of an era and a high point in the model’s evolution. It blends air-cooled soul with modern engineering in a way no other 911 can replicate. As both a daily-drivable classic and a historically significant milestone, the 993 Carrera earns its place among the greatest Porsche 911s ever created.

Why It's On The List

The Porsche 911 Turbo (993) stands as one of the most significant and accomplished supercars of the 1990s—and arguably the ultimate expression of the air-cooled Turbo lineage. Arriving at a time when Porsche was redefining its future, the 993 Turbo combined decades of forced-induction experience with cutting-edge technology, delivering a car that was devastatingly fast yet remarkably usable. It marked the moment when the Turbo evolved from a fearsome specialist into a genuinely complete high-performance machine.

Power came from a 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six, a first for the 911 Turbo, producing relentless acceleration across the rev range. Equally transformative was the introduction of all-wheel drive, which finally tamed the Turbo’s notorious power delivery and allowed drivers to deploy its performance with confidence in almost any conditions. Massive brakes, wide bodywork, and advanced suspension gave the 993 Turbo composure and stability that few rivals of the era could match.

Despite its extreme performance, the 993 Turbo retained a refined, understated character. The interior offered genuine luxury and comfort, while the exterior design—wide hips, fixed rear wing, and subtle aggression—has since become iconic. Unlike earlier Turbos that demanded constant vigilance, the 993 Turbo felt planted, predictable, and confidence-inspiring, without losing the sense of occasion that defines a true Porsche flagship.

Today, the Porsche 911 Turbo (993) is widely regarded as one of the greatest all-around 911s ever built. As the final air-cooled Turbo and one of the most advanced cars of its generation, it represents a perfect convergence of tradition and innovation. Brutally fast, beautifully engineered, and timeless in design, the 993 Turbo earns its place among the very best Porsche 911s ever made.

Why It's On The List

The Porsche 911 Carrera RS 3.8 (993) occupies a singular place in Porsche history because it represents both an ending and a culmination. Introduced in 1995, it was the final air-cooled RS, but it was also the most technically advanced air-cooled 911 Porsche ever produced. Unlike earlier RS models that felt raw and sometimes unfinished, the 993 RS 3.8 combined old-school mechanical character with a level of precision and composure that hinted at the modern era to come—without sacrificing purity.

What makes the 993 RS so special is how completely Porsche refined the air-cooled platform before closing the chapter. The wider body, derived from the Carrera 4 shell, dramatically improved rigidity. Multi-link rear suspension brought newfound stability and confidence, taming the traditional 911 lift-off reputation without muting feedback. The result was an RS that felt serious, planted, and devastatingly effective, yet still unmistakably air-cooled in sound, vibration, and feel.

The 3.8-liter engine elevated the experience even further. This wasn’t about headline power figures—it was about response, torque, and durability. The engine pulled harder everywhere than earlier RS models, making the car feel more muscular and authoritative, particularly at high speeds. Where earlier RS cars felt nervous and alive, the 993 RS felt controlled and relentless, more endurance racer than homologation special. It was the moment Porsche proved that air-cooled performance had not yet hit its ceiling.

Rarity and context seal its status among the greatest RS Porsches ever made. Built primarily for Europe and produced in extremely limited numbers, the 993 RS 3.8 was never intended to be widely owned or adored—it was a tool for serious drivers. With the switch to water cooling immediately following, Porsche would never again have the opportunity to evolve the air-cooled RS concept. That finality matters. The 993 RS is not just the last of something—it is the most complete expression of what an air-cooled RS could be.

Why It's On The List

The 993 GT2 is special. Based on the 993 Turbo, the 993 GT2 was built for homologation purposes. Porsche took the twin-turbo flat-six engine from the 911 Turbo and combined it with the wide-body rear-drive chassis to create one of our favorite Porsches ever. Only 57 were built and they go for over a million dollars today so don’t expect to find a bargain (remember, this is the last of the air-cooled turbocharged, extreme 911s).

The 993 GT2 featured widened plastic fenders, more aggressive front bumper with side canards and a massive rear wing with air scoops in the struts. It wore new, wider wheels and the ride height was dropped. The 993 GT2’s original 3.6 L (220 cu in) engine developed 429 hp and in 1998 it was upgraded to 444 hp. Top speed of 187 mph and a 0-60 sprint of 3.9 seconds was devastatingly fast back in 1995.

Development work behind the Turbo S LM-GT was a big contributor to the GT2. To take all this hard-earned knowledge and tech to the track, Stuttgart had to meet the FIA’s stringent requirements and build a road-legal homologation run. Thus the 993-generation 911 GT2 was born. The 993 GT2 was introduced in 1995, two years after the 993 911 had been launched.

Why It's On The List

The Porsche 911 Carrera S (993) occupies a special place in 911 history as the most elegant and enthusiast-focused expression of the naturally aspirated air-cooled era. Introduced late in the 993 production run, the Carrera S combined the muscular widebody stance of the Turbo with the purity of a rear-wheel-drive, naturally aspirated drivetrain. It was a deliberate celebration of everything enthusiasts loved about the classic 911, distilled into one of the most visually striking and emotionally satisfying road cars Porsche ever built.

Under the rear decklid sat the familiar 3.6-liter air-cooled flat-six, delivering smooth, linear power and a spine-tingling soundtrack that defined the final air-cooled generation. Unlike the Turbo, the Carrera S relied on balance, throttle precision, and driver involvement rather than forced induction. The result was a car that felt more intimate and rewarding on real roads, offering exceptional steering feel, composure at speed, and confidence through corners thanks to the 993’s advanced multi-link rear suspension.

The Carrera S also stood out for its aesthetic and tactile appeal. Its wide hips, lowered stance, and Turbo-style brakes gave it a purposeful presence, while the interior blended refinement with classic Porsche ergonomics. With fewer visual add-ons than later performance models, the Carrera S achieved a timeless, understated aggression that many consider the peak of 911 design.

Today, the Porsche 911 Carrera S (993) is regarded as one of the most desirable non-Turbo air-cooled 911s ever made. It represents the perfect intersection of beauty, balance, and mechanical purity at the end of the air-cooled era. Rare, engaging, and endlessly usable, the 993 Carrera S earns its place among the greatest Porsche 911s ever created.

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The Porsche 911 Turbo S (993) represents the absolute pinnacle of the air-cooled 911—an ultimate, no-compromise farewell to one of Porsche’s most important eras. Built in very limited numbers at the end of 993 production, the Turbo S was Porsche Motorsport’s final and most extreme evolution of the air-cooled Turbo formula. It wasn’t merely a trim upgrade; it was a statement car designed to showcase everything Porsche had learned about performance, durability, and forced induction before moving on.

At its core was an uprated version of the already formidable 3.6-liter twin-turbo flat-six, delivering significantly more power than the standard 993 Turbo. Power was sent through an all-wheel-drive system that provided remarkable traction and stability, allowing drivers to fully exploit the engine’s explosive acceleration. Massive brakes, reinforced mechanicals, and subtle weight-saving measures ensured the Turbo S could repeatedly deliver its performance without compromise—an engineering triumph even by modern standards.

Visually, the Turbo S was understated yet unmistakably purposeful. Wide Turbo bodywork, a fixed rear wing, and distinctive yellow brake calipers hinted at its enhanced capability without resorting to excess. Inside, the car blended luxury with intent, offering a level of comfort expected of a Porsche flagship while maintaining the focused, driver-centric atmosphere that defined the 993 generation.

Today, the Porsche 911 Turbo S (993) is widely regarded as one of the most collectible and revered 911s ever built. As the final air-cooled Turbo and the most powerful production 911 of its time, it represents the ultimate convergence of tradition, performance, and engineering excellence. Rare, brutally fast, and timeless in design, the 993 Turbo S earns its place among the greatest Porsche 911s ever made—and stands as a fitting full stop to the air-cooled era.

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“Project Gold” was conceived by Porsche Classic as part of the 70th anniversary celebration of Porsche sports cars, and it represents the very last air-cooled 911 Turbo ever manufactured—despite being built in 2018 using genuine new-old-stock components and modern assembly techniques. The project began with a genuine 993-series Turbo body shell discovered in Porsche’s warehouse, which was meticulously restored, protected, and assembled with thousands of original parts sourced through Classic’s extensive catalog. The intention was not simply to restore an old car, but to build a brand-new one that honored the engineering and ethos of Porsche’s air-cooled era while carrying forward design cues from contemporary Porsche models such as the 991 Turbo S Exclusive Series.

Underneath its striking Golden Yellow Metallic paint and bespoke interior lies the heart of a 993 Turbo S—its 3.6-liter twin-turbo flat-six developed to 450 horsepower, a configuration right at the pinnacle of air-cooled performance and shared with only a handful of original Turbo S models. The drivetrain, all-wheel drive system, and other key mechanical components were all new builds from genuine Porsche Classic parts.

When it was offered at the RM Sotheby’s Porsche 70th Anniversary Auction in Atlanta in 2018, Project Gold captured the imagination of collectors worldwide, selling for over $3.1 million.

Why It's On The List

The Porsche 911 GT2 Coppa Florio occupies a unique place in Porsche history as the only 993-generation GT2 finished in Coppa Florio light blue, paired with a full Can Can Red leather interior. Built through Porsche’s Exclusive/Sonderwunsch program, this car took what was already the most extreme air-cooled 911 of its era and infused it with a level of individuality rarely seen on a GT2. In a model line defined by aggression, austerity, and motorsport purpose, the Coppa Florio stands apart as both brutal and beautiful.

Mechanically, nothing was softened. The 993 GT2 was Porsche’s rear-wheel-drive, twin-turbo homologation special—lighter, louder, and far more demanding than the contemporary Turbo. With its wide bodywork, massive rear wing, stripped interior, and race-bred hardware, the GT2 was infamous for rewarding only the most skilled drivers. The Coppa Florio retained all of that intensity, ensuring that its bespoke appearance never came at the expense of authenticity or performance.

What makes this car truly special is the audacity of its specification. Coppa Florio blue is elegant, almost delicate—completely at odds with the GT2’s reputation as the “widowmaker” of the 993 range. The contrast is heightened further by the Can Can Red leather interior, a color more commonly associated with luxury and flair than homologation specials. Yet the combination works brilliantly, turning the GT2 into a rolling statement piece that balances violence with sophistication. It is personalization at the highest level, executed by the factory with absolute confidence.