1998 Porsche 911 (993) Turbo X50

The 993 Turbo, introduced in mid-1995, retained a tight hold on the torch of the most powerful 911 variant, whilst continuing the general developments and improvements to the breed as a whole. Amongst the new features on the 993 Turbo was an electronically controlled, viscous coupling all-wheel drive system, something Porsche had not offered on a turbocharged model since the 959 and a system that greatly improved the car's day to day usability. Under the engine lid, now topped with a sculpted spoiler tail with downturned edges, lived the 3.6-litre, flat-six fed by twin K16 turbos. Combined with bigger brakes, fatter tires, a wide body and lower stance, the 993 Turbo was one of the fastest cars on the planet. With all four wheels helping to evenly distribute great handfuls of power, 0-60mph was dispatched in a staggering 3.7 seconds, 100mph whistled by in 5.7 seconds, and the linear forward thrust continued until the speedometer needle had said goodbye to 180mph and you were on conversational terms with the horizon.

A letter from Porsche confirms that this 993 turbo was originally manufactured in July 1997 to 'Thai Specification' (C25) in right-hand drive. However, there is also correspondence between Autofarm and the German factory which establishes that the car was first registered on the 7th May 1998 by the Porsche Tourist Delivery Department with a factory specification code of C25 (Thailand). An independent importer immediately purchased the vehicle and brought it to the UK where it was registered on the 14th May 1998 – this car never actually left the EU. The Porsche factory also confirms that the C25 specification is exactly the same as a UK spec, except for the stickers under the bonnet, and they even go on to mention that the very long list of Porsche exclusive options factory fitted to this particular car are rarely seen on UK cars.

When initially ordered, the car's first owner decided to specify the desirable 'X50 Power Option, further enhancing this already quick car, with 430 'Pferde' now offering their services. Along with the X50 upgrade the first owner also opted for the Turbo "S" interior and the letter from Porsche confirms the exact full specification. Along with that letter, a full service history is also present with a completely stamped service book up to 2014 when a new book was then needed, along with a large number of past invoices and MOTs. The service book shows stamps from Porsche specialists Autofarm and JZM along with Main Porsche Centres throughout its life.

Finished in Artic Silver with a Chestnut full leather interior, this six-speed manual also enjoys an automatic slip differential, 18” techno alloy wheels, sports seats with electric height adjustment, carbon fibre trim and instrument surround, and Porsche fitted rear park assist. Again, the correspondence from Porsche confirms the car's exact specification.

Now showing 64,500 miles and superbly presented, this very well equipped, X50 Pack, 993 Turbo is a wonderful example of the last of the classic, air-cooled 911s.