2016 Porsche 911 R Coupe

The seventh generation of Porsche's 911 sports car Type 991 was introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2011. The Type 991 was only the third all-new platform for the 911 since the original of 1963, the second being the Type 996 of 1999. The development of the Type 991 was overseen by Porsche's Chief Designer, Michael Mauer, and retained the classic 911 look while resting on a slightly larger platform than its immediate predecessor. The wheelbase was increased in length by 100mm, and a new transaxle enabled the rear wheels to be relocated 76mm rearwards relative to the engine. This gave the car better weight distribution and improved cornering performance. Transmission options comprised six-speed or seven-speed manual gearboxes, with Porsche's dual-clutch (PDK) shift optional on the latter.

Power came from Porsche's 'flat-six' engine available in three different capacities in the Type 991 (3.4 liters, 3.8 liters, and 4.0 liters). Horsepower ranged from the entry-level Carrera's 345 horsepower up to the Turbo S's 552 bhp. Catering to all customer demands, Porsche offered a Cabriolet, Targa, GT3 and GT3RS variants.

The Type 991 was revised and restyled for the 2016 model year, with its introduction occurring in September of 2015, becoming the '991.2.' Turbo-charged engines were now standardized throughout the range: a 3.0-litre unit in the Carrera and Carrera S, and a 3.8-litre one in the Turbo models.

In March of 2016, at the Geneva Motor Show, Porsche introduced the limited edition 911 R, powered by the 'old' GT3 RS's normally aspirated 4.0-liter 493 horsepower engine mated to a new six-speed manual gearbox. The new gearbox used the existing transmission casing but featured new internals. Customers could also order the optional lightweight single-mass flywheel.

The 911 R was developed as a road car, with a softer suspension, narrower tires than the track-day GT3 RS, and lighter steering. The curb weight of the 911 R was brought down to 1,370kg, thanks to its lightweight six-speed manual gearbox, carbon fiber front wings, the removal of sound insulation, and a titanium exhaust system. This meant the 911 R was around 50kg lighter than the GT3 RS. For purists seeking even more weight reduction, they could specify to have the air conditioning and radio removed.

The 911 R used a re-calibrated version of the GT3's active rear-wheel steering. Porsche's carbon ceramic brakes were standard. The GT3-type large rear wing was replace by a new rear diffuser.

Just 991 examples of the 911 R were built.

This particular example has just 1,738 miles on its odometer. It is finished in white with a custom (Factory bespoke) blue 911R striping. There are black Hound's-tooth bucket seats, power steering, power brakes, power windows, air conditioning, and the optional Single Mass Flywheel. It also has the optional Front End Lift and rides on 20-inch wheels.

It was offered for sale at Hollywood Wheels Amelia Select auction in 2017 where it had a pre-auction estimated value of $350,000 - $355,000.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2018