A seemingly standard 1993 Porsche 911 is set to redefine what collectors pay for automotive history. This isn’t just another classic 911; it’s a Turbo S Lightweight, one of only 86 ever built, and it’s estimated to sell for between $2.25 and $2.75 million at an RM Sotheby’s auction in Arizona on January 23rd.
The Exclusive Legacy
Porsche’s Exclusive Manufaktur department created the Lightweight as a street-legal version of the 964 Turbo that dominated the 1991 IMSA Supercar Championship. This model wasn’t about subtle upgrades; it was a focused performance package designed for serious drivers. The car has remained in pristine condition, having spent decades in a private collection before being imported to the US in 2009, with just 393 miles on the odometer.
Power and Weight Reduction
The Lightweight’s 3.3-liter flat-six engine received significant enhancements: upgraded camshafts, larger fuel injectors, and a tweaked turbocharger. This resulted in 381 horsepower, enabling a 0-62 mph sprint in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 180 mph – impressive figures for the early 1990s.
Crucially, Porsche aggressively reduced weight, shedding 400 lbs compared to a standard Turbo S. The car also received chassis reinforcement, a 40mm ride height reduction, and unique 18-inch three-piece wheels. These modifications weren’t cosmetic; they transformed the 911 into a track-ready machine while remaining fully road-legal.
A Collector’s Dream
The Midnight Blue Metallic exterior hides a luxurious Bordeaux leather interior and a striking red engine bay. The vehicle will be sold with its original tires, manuals, tools, first aid kit, service history, and certificate of authenticity, ensuring its provenance is beyond question.
This auction highlights how rare and well-preserved examples of iconic cars can defy market expectations. The 911 Lightweight isn’t just a car; it’s a piece of Porsche’s racing heritage and a statement of extreme exclusivity.
For collectors willing to pay a penthouse price for a three-decade-old automobile, this Lightweight represents an investment in automotive history. The listing is available at RM Sotheby’s.
