The 993-generation Turbo S provided a dramatic and fitting final chapter for the air-cooled Porsche, as the last air-cooled 911 Turbo built by the manufacturer. A true limited-production model, 183 examples were manufactured for North America, each carefully and uniquely prepared by Porsche’s Exclusive department with bespoke features and numerous engine and chassis upgrades. Powered by a 3.6-liter flat-six engine featuring an alloy crankcase and cylinder heads, the Turbo S received larger twin K24 turbochargers for instant throttle response and a new Bosch Motronic engine-management system modified to handle the additional output, which increased to 424 horsepower at 6,250 rpm for the US market. A secondary oil cooler was also added to better dissipate heat.

Many of the 993 Turbo S’s technical advancements were adapted from the legendary 959, including all-wheel drive—a first for the Porsche Turbo model. Stopping power for the Turbo S came from cross-drilled, multi-piston, ventilated disc brakes. To prevent brake fade during intense, extended driving sessions, Porsche added discrete air ducts near the fog lamps on the front valance and on the rear fenders above the wheels.

The Turbo S model’s wide-body design with exclusive aero kit helped accommodate its 18-inch light alloy wheels, while its upgraded six-speed manual transaxle ushered it onward to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds, and a top speed of 184 mph.

Completed in March 1997, this US-market 911 Turbo S remains resplendently original with a high degree of preservation evinced throughout; it is a stellar reference-grade example of this significant and rarefied air-cooled model. The car’s Glacier White paintwork is richly complemented by a long list of desirable accoutrements from Porsche Exclusive, including carbon fiber trim, electric sunroof, Hi-Fi sound package, rear-wiper delete, Xenon Litronic headlights, heated comfort-spec seats with embossed Porsche crests, and black floor mats.

Most impressive in this car’s exceptional suite of Porsche Exclusive tailoring is its astounding volume of “extended” black leather, which covers everything from the seatbelt holsters and sun visors to the speaker frames, headliner, and even the switchgear throughout the cabin!

Following nearly 20 years of careful use among a very short chain of California-based owners, this Turbo S was purchased by the consignor in June 2015, and indicated 4,895 miles at time of cataloguing. Since March 2022, this stunning Turbo S has been treated to over $10,000 of mechanical servicing and cosmetic detailing by marque specialist Bill Eason. Notable line items include new filters, fluids, battery, clutch accumulator, an alternator rebuild, and four new Michelin PilotSport tires.

Exhilarating performance, advanced 959-inspired engineering, and a bevy of bespoke features came together in perfect harmony for the final evolution of Porsche’s air-cooled technology. The next owner of this Turbo S will be presented with the rare opportunity to experience what many aficionados consider to be Porsche’s greatest era.