Porsche wraps up production of 991-type 911

PORSCHE’S 991-generation 911 sportscar has finally ceased production after an eight-year run that saw the greatest number of sales for any 911 generation, with 233,540 units produced over its lifespan.

Marking the end of the run was one of Porsche’s most desirable and performance-oriented 911s, the swansong Speedster that draws visual inspiration from the original 1948 ‘No. 1’ 356, which served as a precursor to the 911 introduced 15 years later.

Produced in a run of 1948 units, the Speedster arrived in Australia in the fourth quarter of this year priced from $604,800 plus on-roads, making it one of the most expensive 911s produced in its generation.

Riding on the same chassis as the 911 GT3 RS and 911 R, the Speedster is powered by a 4.0-litre aspirated flat six-cylinder engine producing 375kW at 8400rpm and 470Nm teamed to a six-speed manual transmission.

The Speedster’s most unique feature is its styling, notably its convertible top compartment lid and double-bubble streamliners, to go with front and rear aprons borrowed from the GT3.

First beginning its run in 2011, the 991 generation ushered in new levels of performance and sales success for the German icon, with its 233,540 units eclipsing the 213,004 produced by the 997 generation which lasted from 2004-2012.

It also saw the birth of the fastest and most powerful 911 ever – the savage GT2 RS which punched out a massive 515kW/750Nm from its twin-turbo 3.8-litre six-pot when it was revealed in 2017.

As well as being the most powerful 911, the GT2 RS was also the most expensive, asking $645,400 plus on-roads in Australia.

The 991 also saw the introduction of active aerodynamics and petrol particulate filters on the 911 Turbo, while also allowing for the production of a number of special-edition models, like the 911 R, T and GT3 Touring.

Porsche AG chief research and development officer Michael Steiner said he was proud of the achievements made by the 991 911.

“The 911 replaced the 356 in 1963 and, in the decades that followed, our rear engine model grew into an unrivalled sports car icon,” he said.

“The 991 generation in particular has set new standards in terms of performance, driveability and efficiency. It fills me with pride, as well as a touch of sadness, to have to send it off into retirement.”

The new 992-type 911 is the eighth generation of 911 since its introduction in 1963, and arrived in Australia in February in mid-spec Carrera S guise.

The entry-level Carrera followed this year, with the hi-po GTS, Turbo and Turbo S expected to follow, along with special-edition models to keep the range fresh throughout its life cycle.