Porsche is set to bring production of the current 911 to an end in the exact same way it did with its first ever model - by producing a motorsport-inspired, two-seat, manual-only Speedster.
The drop-top Speedster will return next year as a a GT3-based send off to the 991-gen sportscar before the model is replaced, according to Autocar UK.
Porsche hinted at the possibility of a "potential series-production version" at Goodwood Festival of Motorsport in the UK last month when it revealed the Speedster concept, a model that "forges a link between the very first Porsche 356 ‘No. 1’ Roadster".
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Autocar UK report that a decision to produce a new Speedster has already been made internally, with plans to limit production to 1948 units worldwide, a nod to Porsche's founding year and its 70th anniversary.
Developed by Porsche Motorsport Centre, the Speedster Concept features the shorter window frame, raked windscreen and 'double bubble' tonneau cover the nameplate is famous for - all made from carbon fibre.
Most of the body is borrowed from the 991 Carrera 4 Cabriolet, but the bonnet and bumpers are adapted from the 991 GT3 by the company's motorsport division.
The chassis essentially comes from the 911 GT3, but for the first time the concept features Porsche's famous clover-leaf 21-inch rims with centre locks.
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Power is likely to come by way of the 911 GT3's four-litre six-cylinder flat six producing over 500hp (365kW) and revving to up to 9000rpm. And Porsche Motorsport Centre has contributed to the Speedster's exhaust system and manual gearbox calibration.
The concept feature cues from older Speedster models such as the 1950s-style central fuel tank cap positioned in the middle of the bonnet and Talbot wing mirrors.
There are new details that might make their way into production, too, like two black slats between the ‘humps’ with Porsche logo, a transparent Plexiglas wind deflector or the gold-plated Speedster badging.
In the cabin, the Speedster adopts a lightweight approach by removing the navigation, radio and air conditioning systems.
The full bucket seats are made of carbon, and the light brown Aniline leather covers in Cognac 356 pick up on features from the car’s classic predecessors.
Porsche are expected to make an official announcement about Speedster production before the end of the year, but with the model rumoured to be produced at such a low volume, don't be surprised if its the most expensive naturally aspirated 991 ever built.
