2007 Porsche 911 (997.1) Turbo Cabriolet

Perhaps the only modern sports coupé that the vast majority of people could identify without its badge, the Porsche 911 is a uniquely aspirational model for those wanting a reliable daily sports car, a paradox of statement and subtlety. Perfected over generations, each variant of the 911 has met the expectations of the individual and whilst the daily commute in a Carrera was acceptable for some, the 911 Turbo was something special. Refined yet capable of supercar speeds, the evolution of the Turbo came into its own with the 996 generation of the late 1990s and early 2000s, however the circular headlamps were missed and in 2004 they returned with the 997 Carrera.

It wasn't until 2006 that the Turbo version was finally revealed, first shown at that year's Geneva Show and initially offered as a coupé with an impressive specification. The Mezger 3.6-litre engine was carried over but now produced 480bhp at 6,000rpm and featured 'VarioCam Plus' and a pair of clever Borg-Warner variable geometry turbochargers, a totally new technology for Porsche. With a manual gearbox, the 997 Turbo requires just 3.9 seconds to reach 62mph and will go on to 193mph, whilst an impressive 3.7 seconds is achievable with deft use of the 5-speed Tiptronic S selector paddles.

Power is transmitted to all four wheels with Porsche Traction Management (PTM) which utilises an electronically controlled, multi-plate clutch. This intelligent technology provides variable drive to each axle. The front/rear split is continuously adjusted based on current road conditions and driver inputs and, although biased towards the rear, the front receives more power whenever the situation requires. The May 2007 launch of the Turbo Cabriolet was universally acclaimed, yet it entered a competitive market that ironically it had helped to create, but brand loyalty, due to its reputation for reliability and blistering speed, set the car apart.

For some, only a red Ferrari will do, much like a black 911 Turbo would be the obvious choice for many, and questionable colour choices have come in and out of fashion over the years. So we applaud the first owner’s specification of this Turbo Cabriolet in Macadamia Metallic with a Cocoa power-hood above the Sand Beige leather interior and the rare, for a 911, fitment of wooden accents. The Sycamore trim is beautifully finished, a classy addition that is neither ostentatiously Bentley or obviously Jaguar. The copy Bill of Sale to the first of its two owners on 18th September 2007 confirms that the car was to 'look the part' as can be seen in the options, such as the painted front spoiler lip, additional leather and Sycamore trim, crested headrests, stainless-steel door guards and much more, for a total cost of £126,116.

The history file is confidence-inspiring and will be complemented by a Porsche main dealer service before the auction, together with a fresh MOT. Presented with some 20,200 miles from new (at the time of cataloguing), and clearly enjoyed for special outings, this motor car is one for the connoisseur.