In the face of competition from the likes of Ferrari and its wild Testarossa, Porsche sought to lean into the era of excess with a special version of the 911. Drawing inspiration from a series of concepts, the firm unveiled its 911 Speedster—a sculpted and muscular homage to its 356 Speedster forebear—for the 1989 model year.

Celebrating the 35th anniversary of its landmark pared-back sports car, the 911 Speedster was based on the firm’s existing 3.2 Carrera platform, sharing its 3.2-liter air-cooled flat-six powerplant and five-speed Getrag G50 transaxle. With 231 horsepower on tap and a lighter curb weight than its Carrera stablemate, the Speedster was a spirited performer—but its appeal lay more in its bold styling.

Though some narrow-body variants were produced, most Speedsters left Zuffenhausen with a suite of body panels borrowed from the top-of-the-range Turbo, including front fenders and rear quarter panels, in addition to its meatier forged Fuchs alloy wheels. Most striking, however, was the windscreen, which was mounted at a steeper angle than that of the Carrera, as well as being more than 3 inches shorter. The sleek look continued at the back of the car, which featured an aerodynamic hump that covered a storage compartment where the rear seats used to be. A roof was provided, but only as a cursory nod to practicality; in reality they were rarely used.

The example offered—chassis 173170—was completed on 21 June 1989, finished in Guards Red over a Black and Beige partial leather interior. The Porsche was specified with air conditioning, “Reno” radio, heated powered seats, cruise control, and a desirable limited-slip differential. Destined for the United States, it was one of just 2,104 examples built during a production run that lasted for just one year.

The 911 Speedster was delivered by White Allen Porsche of Dayton, Ohio, to its first owner, based in the same city. This individual would own the car until 2015, when it was sold to only its second owner. Notably, both a copy of the original title and bill of sale are present within the vehicle files along with the owner’s manuals, the original window sticker, a tool kit, a letter from Porsche North America, and a log book. Thanks to two distinct periods of long-term ownership, the Porsche shows in wonderful condition today, with just 1,753 miles on the odometer at the time of cataloguing. Further, the consigner states this car is easily the best example out of the several 911 Speedsters he has owned over the years.

Presenting today in its factory-correct color and interior combination, this attractive and well-specified 911 Speedster would make a very nice addition to any collection. It is equally sure to garner plenty of attention at Porsche Club events.