Porsche built its reputation and enduring legacy on air-cooled performance, starting with the 356. This was followed in 1964 by the arrival of an evolutionary six-cylinder GT successor called the Type 901 and badged as the 911. One of the most successful stories in automotive history, with a continuous production run nearing 60 years, the 911 offered a near-perfect blend of timeless looks, balanced handling, chassis and engine reliability, and performance that perfectly suited the 911 to both the road and the track.

As air-cooled 911 development continued, Porsche occasionally debuted limited-production, high-performance variants to widespread acclaim. These included the Carrera RS in 1973, the 930 Turbo in 1975, the all-wheel-drive 964 series, and, finally, the ultimate iteration of air-cooled technology with the 993 series—recognized by many enthusiasts as the best air-cooled car Porsche ever made.

The Type 993 Porsche 911 Turbo S provided a dramatic and fitting final chapter for the air-cooled era, being the last air-cooled 911 Turbo built by Porsche. A true limited-production model, only 182 examples were manufactured for North America, each carefully and uniquely prepared by the Exclusive Department with bespoke features and numerous engine and chassis upgrades throughout. Powered by a 3.6-liter SOHC flat-six engine fitted with alloy cylinder heads and case, the “S” also received larger twin KKK K24 turbochargers for instant throttle response and a new Bosch Motronic engine-management system modified to handle the additional horsepower (now increased to 424 horsepower at 6,250 rpm for the US market). A higher-performing engine also led to greater heat production, which was diffused by adding a secondary oil cooler.

Many 993 Turbo technical advancements were adapted from the legendary 959, including handling assisted by electronically controlled all-wheel drive—a first for Porsche Turbos. Stopping power for the “S” was supplied by bigger 12.68-inch cross-drilled, multi-piston ventilated disc brakes cooled by replacing fog lamps with brake air ducts on the front valance, and active rear brake cooling intakes were sculpted into the rear fenders above the wheels.

Yellow brake calipers easily identified the Turbo S, along with a redesigned Aerokit Turbo II front end and an enlarged twin-blade fixed rear wing with integrated vents feeding air to the intercooler. A wide-body tail design matched the wider, 18-inch tires and cast alloy wheels holding the Turbo S to the road, while the exhaust sang through four pipes. An upgraded six-speed manual gearbox helped the Turbo S achieve 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 184 mph.

This stunning example presents in its original factory finishes of Arctic Silver Metallic over special-order Boxster Red leather interior. While every Turbo S received upgraded interiors with additional carbon fiber and leather trim, this example features deviated stitching throughout the cabin and on “Racing Style Sport Seats” complete with Porsche crests on the head restraints. Front “Porsche” script XX1 floor mats were ordered, along with a rare optional storage shelf in place of the rear seats, as well as self-dimming mirrors and rain sensor.

Sold new through legendary Porsche dealer Brumos Motor Cars in Jacksonville, Florida, this example remained in Florida with the first owner for over 18 years. It was sold in 2015 to a highly respected private collection in the Denver area before acquisition by a third Colorado-based owner in 2019, from whom it is offered today. Showing less than 14,100 miles on the odometer at time of cataloguing, this example has been professionally maintained with service kept up-to-date at Blue Chip in Denver, Colorado. The original window sticker, Brumos purchase documents, original manuals, Porsche Production Specifications certificate, service documentation, tools, spare key, and cover accompany the car.

Exhilarating performance, one-year US-only limited-production status, advanced 959-inspired engineering, bespoke features, and assembly by Porsche Exclusive—with upgraded factory components throughout—all came together in one definitive sports car only a few select Porsche enthusiasts could acquire in 1997. The next owner of this 911 Turbo S now has a rare opportunity to experience the final evolution of air-cooled technology, heralding an end to what many aficionados consider as Porsche’s greatest era.