1986 Porsche 911 Supersport (M491) 3.2 Carrera Coupé

Possibly the ultimate version of the 3.2 Carrera was an "Option M491-Turbo-look", or "Supersport", as it later became known in the UK. Initially, Option M491 was only available on a coupé via the Special Wishes programme, but was later extended to include a Turbo-Look Targa and Cabriolet in 1985, then became an official model from 1986. From 1987 the designation was officially known as SSE (Supersport Equipment).

'M491' was not just a sop to the excesses of the 1980s, with flared arches evoking the appearance of some dramatic Porsche models from the past, but was a popular option offering the 'macho' good looks of the Turbo without the mechanical complexities. However, it was not cheap adding over £10,000 to the cost of a standard variant by the end of the model"s life in 1989, possibly explaining the relatively small build numbers. The spec also included a limited slip differential, the stiffer suspension and superior braking system from the 930 Turbo, a wrap-around deep chin-spoiler, the famous "tea-tray" rear spoiler, and wider Fuchs alloy wheels. The rarity of M491/Supersport models is undeniable, especially in right-hand drive, but official figures are hard to come by. A respected source quotes that just 651 C16 (UK-supplied) M491 cars (including all Coupés, Targas and Cabriolets) were manufactured between 1984 and 1989.

The car presented here is a 1986 Porsche 911 3.2 "Option M491-Turbo-look" (or as it was officially known in the UK for 1986 only) a 'Carrera with Sport Equipment' (becoming SSE in 1987). It is believed to be 1 of only 100 such C16 models produced in 1986.

Our vendor has owned the car since 2009, always ensuring that it has been well-maintained and serviced. Accompanying the car are two keys, a complete book-pack (including an original stamped-up service booklet) plus numerous invoices, going back over more than 20 years, with total expenditure on the car by our vendor alone totaling approximately £20,000. In 2016, the car was treated to a full respray in its original rare colour of Preussisch Blue Metallic (33X), taking the opportunity to address some minor bodywork issues at the same time. We are assured that all this maintenance means the car drives and performs very well, negating somewhat its current documented mileage of 152,000. Indeed, the car"s current MOT Certificate until July 2018 shows no advisories. This car still has lots to give thanks to its dutiful ownership history.

This is a real opportunity to join an illustrious group of "Supersport" owners at a very accessible guide price. With prices for the standard 3.2 Carreras on the march, securing a rare and desirable example such as this, while you still can, may well be one of your better decisions.