Production Years: 2010 | Generation: 997.2 | Units built: 250
Engine: 3.8L flat-6 | Power: 408 hp | 0 – 60 mph: 4.6 s | Top Speed: 187 mph
Launched alongside the 997 Speedster (didn’t make our list but worth looking at) the Porsche 997 Sport Classic was built to celebrate 25 years of Porsche Exclusive. Complete with a double-bubble roof, genuine Fuchs alloys, and a ducktail, the Sport Classic was the ultimate embodiment of Zuffenhausen’s special build skills. Some may argue that this is just a 911 Carrera S with a ducktail but to us, this is more special, a nod to the good old days.
First of all the Sport Classic is fettled by the folks on the Porsche Exclusive team (the guys will customize a new Porsche with just about any options you could ever dream of). The package is based on the Carrera S but uses 4S rear bodywork for that wider and lower look plus the wider rear track. The most obvious aesthetic change is the double-dome roof and the Sport Design fascia and unique lip spoiler in front. At the rear the famous ducktail spoiler brings back Carrera RS 2.7 memories. Speaking of memories, check out the black-painted 19-inch retro-styled Fuchs wheels. Other small touches, such as black headlight-trim rings and black side-mirror brackets. It is the prettiest 911 of that generation.
Mechanical bits include the Carrera S’s 3.8-liter flat-six paired only to a six-speed manual gearbox (no auto available). While it is also shared with the Carrera S (where it makes 385 horsepower), the Sport Classic is fitted with the optional engine “Power kit” as standard equipment. In addition to updated engine management software, the expensive option delivers a carbon fiber air filter casing, variable double-resonance intake manifold, modified cylinder heads, and a sport exhaust system with the aforementioned special tailpipes. The result is 408 horsepower (at 7,300 rpm) and 310 pound-feet of torque (at 4,200 rpm) with the redline set at 7,500 rpm. A sport suspension, a locking rear diff, and carbon-ceramic brakes are all standard.
The interior also gets the full bespoke treatment. Espresso-Nature colored leather is everywhere. The upholstery in the middle of the seat cushions, seatbacks, and door panels is made of beautiful woven leather that looks old school. Grey piping matches the Alcantara headliner as well as the double center stripes on the exterior.
The Porsche’s 911 Sport Classic was rare, unique and very, very expensive and with only 250 copies they go for a lot today on the used car market.