Description
This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Iconic Sale at the NEC Classic Motor Show 2024 - Cars on Saturday the 9th of November, NEC, Birmingham, B40 1NT. Property of a Gentleman
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.
This rare, C16 UK-supplied car was registered to the first four former keepers on the 25th April, 1987 and delivered new by Porsche main agents A. F. N. Limited. It has covered just 48, 037 miles from new and the incredibly detailed history includes the original wallet housing the hand books and well stamped service book, previous MOTs, and the most recent certificate valid until 13 October 2025.
This beautiful 911 has patently been well cared for as is obvious from its condition and carefully curated history file.
