In keeping with Porsche’s new marketing policy of offering limited-production, lavishly equipped variants of its evergreen 911, a new fourth-generation Speedster was unveiled at the Paris Auto Show in October 2010. It marked Porsche Exclusiv’s 25th anniversary and was an homage to the company’s iconic little 356 “bathtubs” of the 1950s. Indeed, that point was emphasized by the production total, which was limited to precisely 356 units, with just 100 of those coming to the U.S.

Based on the Type 997.2 GTS cabriolet, this latest iteration of the Speedster was fitted with the same normally aspirated, rear-mounted 3.8-liter flat six developing 408 bhp at 7,300 rpm thanks to a special “Power Kit.” This sophisticated motor used special valves in its six adjustable intake runners to optimize breathing and power output throughout the engine’s rev range. Standard equipment included Porsche’s widely admired seven-speed double-clutch (PDK) transmission and powerful carbon-ceramic (PCCB) disc brakes with their distinctive yellow calipers at all four corners. Speedsters were also fitted with Sport Chrono Plus technology – allowing 0–60 times near four seconds, and a maximum speed of 190 mph.

Also part of the package were a locking rear differential, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), adaptive sport seats, and bodywork based on the widened shell of the all-wheel-drive Carrera 4 and Turbo. Door skins were aluminum instead of steel to save additional weight, and there were special front and rear fascias and GT2-like side skirts from Sport Design, tinted front lights, and black headlamp rings and windshield frame.

Speedsters could be ordered in just two colors: Carrara White (named for the marble) or True Blue, with a harmonizing – or contrasting – full leather interior that included the door pull straps and air-conditioning flaps. A minimalist black fabric “emergency” top could be fastened to the shortened windshield frame, but in truth, the Speedster is a true fair-weather tourer. Strictly a two-seater, the Speedster could accommodate a few small pieces of luggage beneath the signature twin-humped FRP tonneau, as well as a bag or two in the front trunk compartment.

Spoked alloy wheels, 19 inches in diameter, were standard, shod with high-performance 235/35ZR19 and 295/30ZR19 tires. Center-lock wheels were available at extra cost.

Finished in Carrara White with a black and white leather interior that includes optional checkered-flag-patterned seat cover inserts and Fuchs wheels with black-painted spokes, this breathtaking one-owner 911 Speedster wears several special plaques noting that it is number 196 of 356 in this limited-production series. It has been maintained fastidiously from new, stored carefully, has accrued only 980 miles, and is supplied with its original documentation, tools, and other factory accessories. It is certainly among the most desirable and collectible modern Porsches available today and sure to remain so tomorrow.