1992 Porsche 911 Turbo S Leichtbau

In May 1992 Porsche announced that it was planning to produce a very special limited edition of its current 964 Turbo that was to be christened the 911 Turbo S Leichtbau (Light build). They expected to build 25-50 units (later upped to 80), they would be sold through Porsche Centres at a price not exceeding 300,000 DM, and the car was to be built in the fiscal year ending July 1992. The new project was to be a lightweight road legal turbo that would feature an increased engine output, together with enhanced handling and subtle styling differences.

A prototype was built using a 1992 3.3ltr Turbo chassis and the “1992 Turbo S Leichtbau” came into being but, ironically, production did not start until July 1992 meaning that they were all built in the 1993 Model Year. The car was a development of the Turbo S2 and the goal was to increase engine output by around 40bhp, but that was exceeded and in the end an additional 61 horses were found bringing net power up to 381 bhp. Porsche explained: "With different camshafts, precision-machined intake ducts, slightly higher charge pressure and an optimised ignition and fuel injection system, this six-cylinder engine was capable of unleashing 381 bhp. To deliver all that power to the road surface safely, the car was lowered by 40 millimetres and the running gear was given firmer settings." However the main quest was to find a significant weight reduction and they were successful reducing the overall weight by 180 kg. This was achieved by doing without under body protection, sound proofing, air conditioning, power steering and rear seats. Further savings came from thin glass, aluminium doors, a carbon fibre luggage compartment and even thinner carpets.

A total of just 86 cars were produced, of which only a handful are believed to have been destined for the United Kingdom.This is a very rare car, as recognised by Porsche in 2011 as the “1992 Turbo S Leichtbau” was one of very few models to go on display as part of “25 Years of Porsche Exclusive” held at their museum in Stuttgart. This right hand drive example, chassis 74, was delivered to its first and current owner and registered during March 1993. Finished in a special order body colour of Electric Blue Metallic with a black leather interior, the car exudes purpose. Having covered just c.23,000 miles since new, this stunning racer-for-the-road is in commensurably fine condition throughout and features the optional extra of air conditioning, together with power assisted steering – a standard fitment on all RHD cars presumably as the good folk at Porsche felt that we in the UK needed something a little more comfortable.

Ready to electrify its new lucky owner, it comes with a Swansea V5C, a current MoT certificate, comprehensive service history and all the original correspondence between the owner and AFN Isleworth detailing the paint, build and original bill of sale.