Porsche 997 Speedster in numbers​

More About This 997 Speedster​

When it comes to rare and collectible Porsche models, the Porsche 997 Speedster holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts. With only 356 units ever produced, the 997 Speedster is not just another variant of the beloved 911—it’s a carefully curated homage to Porsche’s rich heritage, blending classic design cues with modern performance. In this article, we dive deep into what makes the Porsche 997 Speedster for sale such a standout model in the Porsche lineup.

A Nod to Porsche History​

One of the first things you’ll notice about the Porsche 997 Speedster for sale is its iconic double-hump rear tonneau cover—an unmistakable Speedster hallmark. This low-profile look gives the car a sportier, more aggressive stance, while still evoking the classic design language of the original Speedster models.

The windscreen is lower and has the same rake angle as the standard 911, contributing to the car’s distinctive silhouette. Porsche equipped the 997 Speedster with a special body kit, widened rear fenders, and a bespoke front fascia. All 997 Speedsters came with Porsche Exclusive-designed 19-inch Fuchs-style wheels, a nod to vintage Porsche design.

Buyers had only two color options—Pure Blue (an exclusive shade created for the 997 Speedster) and Carrara White. Both were complemented by contrasting black accents and trim pieces that elevated the car’s visual impact.

Porsche Speedster – Generation Range​

Interior: Crafted by Porsche Exclusive​

Step inside the Porsche 997 Speedster for sale, and you’ll find a cabin that’s just as special as the exterior. Porsche Exclusive, the brand’s bespoke customization division, designed a unique interior package that featured black leather upholstery with color-matched stitching, Speedster logos embroidered into the headrests, and a special numbered plaque indicating the car’s production number out of 356.

The sporty feel continued with aluminum-look trim, body-colored center console accents, and a host of standard luxury features like Porsche Communication Management (PCM), a premium audio system, and adaptive sports seats.

Performance: Speedster in Spirit, GTS Underneath​

The 911 Speedster (997) blends the iconic characteristics of the renowned Speedster lineage with enhanced performance based on the 997.2 generation of 911s. At its heart is a 3.8-liter flat-six engine, producing an impressive 408 horsepower—that’s 23 hp more than the 911 Carrera S Cabriolet—yet it maintains the same EPA fuel efficiency rating of 19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway.

Thanks to Porsche Intelligent Performance, the 2011 Speedster accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds when equipped with the Sport Chrono Plus package, and reaches a top track speed of 190 mph (305 km/h).

Power is delivered to the rear wheels via the advanced seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) transmission, paired with a limited-slip differential lock, both included as standard. Notably, a manual six-speed transmission is not offered for this model.

Further enhancing driving dynamics and control, the 911 Speedster comes standard with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), ensuring a precise and responsive driving experience.

Safety is also a key focus: Porsche engineers have enhanced the rollover protection system—already standard in all open-top Porsche models—offering superior safety for both driver and passenger in this high-performance open-air sports car.

Rarity and Collectibility​

Given its extremely limited production and unique specifications, the Porsche 997 Speedster for sale is already considered a collector’s item. Prices on the secondary market have remained strong, often appreciating over time due to the car’s scarcity and heritage significance.

Unlike other special edition 911s, the 997 Speedster combines exclusivity, aesthetic appeal, and daily drivability—a rare combination that continues to attract both collectors and driving purists.

Final Thoughts: Why the 997 Speedster Matters​

The Porsche 997 Speedster isn’t just a cosmetic tribute to the past—it’s a serious performance machine wrapped in a bespoke, nostalgic package. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, the 997 Speedster represents a perfect blend of old-school cool and modern engineering prowess.

Whether you’re lucky enough to see one in the wild or fortunate enough to own one, the 997 Speedster is a true automotive gem—a reminder that sometimes, less really is more.

Original Speedster – Designed Especially for the U.S. Market​

The Speedster series made its debut in 1953 as a purist sports car derived from the Porsche 356. New York-based Porsche importer Max Hoffman envisioned a lightweight 356 cabriolet tailored specifically for the American market—a car that would stand out both in performance and appearance. The result was a Porsche featuring two sport bucket seats, doors equipped with slide-in plastic windows, and a shortened, gracefully curved windshield. This unique model quickly gained popularity, particularly in Southern California.

In 1988, the Speedster made its return—this time based on the 911 Carrera—marking the revival of the concept with the addition of one of its most iconic design elements: the distinctive double-bubble rear cover. A few years later, in 1993 and 1994, the third generation of the Speedster arrived, based on the next evolutionary stage of the 911 Carrera.

The latest interpretation of the Speedster concept originates from Porsche Exclusive—the brand’s department dedicated to the customization and limited-edition production of Porsche vehicles, including the 911 Speedster. The 2011 Speedster was introduced to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Porsche Exclusive, a milestone celebrated that same year. This model once again showcases Porsche Exclusive’s expertise in small-batch, handcrafted production, following the successful release of the 2010 911 Sport Classic in Europe.

True to Porsche Exclusive’s high standards, the 911 Speedster comes equipped with nearly all available optional features from the 911 lineup. Its appeal is further elevated by a meticulously handcrafted interior finished in black smooth leather, enhanced with various body-color accents exclusive to the Speedster. Special design touches include checkerboard pattern inserts on the adaptive sport seat centers, reminiscent of a racing checkered flag, along with leather side bolsters in the vehicle’s exterior color.

Adding to its sporty character is the unique exterior color “Pure Blue”, developed exclusively for the Speedster. This bold hue is contrasted by tinted front lights, black headlight rings, a black windshield frame, and additional black exterior detailing. As an alternative, Carrara White was also available at no extra cost. The car also features a distinct front apron, model-specific sideskirts, and a uniquely styled rear apron—further setting the Speedster apart as a truly special edition in the 911 family.

Source: Porsche