1987 Porsche 911 Carrera Supersports Targa

Possibly the ultimate version of the 3.2 Carrera was the "Option M491-Turbo-look" or "Supersport" as it later became known in the UK. Initially, Option M491 was only available on a Coupé and had to be ordered through the "Special Wishes" program, but was later extended to include the Targa and Cabriolet in 1985, before becoming an official model available from dealers in 1986. From 1987 onwards these dramatic versions were officially known as SSE (Supersport Equipment), and the cars in this final three-year run up until 1989 were fitted with the more user-friendly G50 Getrag gearbox.

'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 SSE 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 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 dark metallic blue example offered here is one of just 220 C16 (UK specification), right-hand drive, Supersport Targas produced. It has been enjoyed by just three owners and appears to have been looked after throughout its life.

It was purchased in 1991 by the current owner, a well-known guitarist and founding member of the cult rock band Whitesnake, and has an indicated mileage of just short of 91,000. There is very little in the way of history with the car so naturally we are unable to warrant the mileage, however, we are told that the car has been maintained annually by a local specialist garage. Having recently benefitted from some minor recommissioning work the car is presented in excellent condition and appears to be a well-preserved example with no obvious deviations from its original specification.

Supersport and M491 cars are fast becoming some of the most collectable of the "G series" era 911s and this rare Targa model is an eminently usable and very desirable example.