Truly one of the most iconic cars of its era, Porsche’s 356 Speedster was the brainchild of New York–based dealer extraordinaire Max Hoffman. Conceived to give Porsche more of a foothold in the American market, the diminutive speedster offered bare-bones performance that was thrilling on the streets and proved to be successful on the track. Advertised at $2,995, it was a bargain compared to its British competitors and quickly proved to be a huge hit with enthusiasts not only in the US, but worldwide.

The Speedster made comebacks for the G-Series 911 of 1989, the 964, and even a handful of 993-generation 911s, where it was always heralded as one of the most desirable models of the range—and one that kept Porsche firmly in touch with its roots. For the 997 generation of 911, the new Speedster was introduced at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, and true to its heritage, it was considered an instant modern-day collectible.

Using the Carrera GTS as a base, and with the Powerkit-equipped 3.8-liter flat-six at its heart, the Speedster came equipped with virtually every available option, including the Sport Chrono package, carbon-ceramic brakes, and the PASM suspension. Porsche’s Exclusive department seized the opportunity to use the Speedster as a showcase of its capabilities. In addition to preceding, the cars were specially optioned with Fuchs-style wheels, a 70-millimeter-shorter windshield, black seats with a checkered-flag pattern, a unique aero kit, and contrasting stitching throughout, as well as several contrasting trim panels and Speedster-specific motifs.

Just two standard color options were made available for the new 911 Speedster: Carrera White, and a color unique to the speedster model, Pure Blue. The only interior color option was black, with matching details in whatever color was selected for the exterior.

SPEEDSTER 221

This Pure Blue example is the 221st Speedster built, and it was completed at Zuffenhausen in April 2011 for delivery to Fremont Porsche of Fremont, California in June of that year. It was, interestingly, specified by the originating dealer with black leather free from the model’s unique checkered-flag upholstery motif. The consignor is the car’s third recorded owner, and since new it has been maintained solely by official Porsche dealers. This exclusive offering is presented today with fewer than 2,450 miles since new.

Widely considered to be the ultimate open-top incarnation of the 997 family, the Speedster combines stunning good looks, exemplary performance, and rarity into a very collectable package. This example is presented in virtually as-new condition throughout and would sit beautifully alongside any of its older or younger speedsters as a celebration of Porsche’s rich heritage.