Based on the Type 964 Turbo, which had been campaigned successfully in the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) Supercar Series in the United States, Porsche presented the 911 Turbo Lightweight as a design study at the Geneva Auto Show in March 1992. Positive response spurred Porsche to proceed with a limited run of this special production version.

The model was officially called the 911 Turbo S and was built in Zuffenhausen’s Exclusive Department. The Turbo S was based on the standard production Turbo II, but with extensive tuning work on the 3.3-litre turbocharged engine to increase its power output by nearly 20 percent. With an incredible 381 brake horsepower (compared to the Turbo’s 320), the upgraded engine also developed an impressive 36 foot-pounds of torque at 4,800 rpm. The prodigious power could launch the Turbo S from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.7 seconds and to a top speed of 290 km/h (180 mph).

Much like its normally aspirated counterpart, the Carrera RS, weight reduction measurements included the removal of comfort-oriented equipment and trim, such as the power windows, power locks, air-conditioning, and power-adjustable seats. Furthermore, lightweight fiberglass-reinforced carbon composite body panels were used for the front boot lid, both doors, and the rear spoiler. Special thin-gauge glass was also used in the rear and side windows. The interior features lightweight bucket seats, removal of the rear seats, elimination of undercoating material, as well as limited use of sound insulation throughout. At just 1,290 kilograms, the Turbo S weighs in at 180 kilograms less than the production Turbo II.

Exceptionally rare, this lightweight Type 964 Turbo S was purchased by its original owner in September 1992 (a copy of the original invoice is on file). While options were limited, it was ordered in the buyer’s colour of choice, fittingly, Speed Yellow. The interior sports black leather bucket seats that were also ordered to match with grey and yellow inserts, along with matching “turbo S” stitching behind the seats and in the front storage compartment. Finally, the car was optioned with an air bag on the driver’s side, which includes a matching yellow steering wheel centre. Five years later, the Turbo S was acquired by the current owner with only 1,750 kilometres showing at the time. It has since been meticulously cared for in his collection of outstanding modern Porsches, as noted by the routine service work performed by Porsche Zentrum Flughafen Stutgart. Showing just 6,300 kilometres at the time of cataloguing, this rare Speed Yellow Turbo S includes its original owners’ manuals and service booklet in their leather pouch.

As one of the rarest and most powerful models of the vaunted 964 platform, this limited-production lightweight Turbo S is undoubtedly one of the most exciting air-cooled 911s. This particular example, boasting just two owners from new and under fastidious care and with regular servicing and maintenance, is surely one of the best, and it remains ready to wow its next owner with its incredible driving dynamics.