1993 Porsche 911 Turbo S

Up to this point in history, Porsche had never offered a lightweight Turbo model. In January of 1992, Rolf Sprenger, head of Porsche's Exclusive Department, decided to change that by convincing the Board of Directors that a market existed for the performance of the Turbo with the raw, uncompromising nature of the Carrera RS.

A few months later, in March, at the Geneva Auto Show, Porsche introduced the 964 Turbo S Leichtbau. It had the weight-saving measures used in the Carrera RS, which had been derived from the RSR and Cup models. Fiberglass-reinforced carbon-composite materials were used for the doors, front lid, and rear spoiler. Thin glass, bucket seats, and RS door panels helped reduce the overall weight, along with the elimination of power windows, power steering, air-conditioning, and rear seats. Porsche also avoided excessive sound deadening and undercoating. The result of this was a car that weighed 2,844 lbs., almost 430 lbs. less than a standard Turbo.

Along with the weight-saving features, Porsche lowered the vehicle by 40mm, the suspension was tuned to Carrera RS settings, and an aluminum front brace was installed. It was given a reinforced body shell, 18-inch modular wheels, and upgraded brakes. Power was supplied by the Type M30/69 SL engine, which offered more power than the optional X33 engine. Power was increased by fitting the engine with aggressive camshafts, new injection valves, and greater boost pressure. Unnecessary ancillary components were removed.

The Turbo S offered 381 horsepower, a gain of 61 horsepower over the Turbo. To help distinguish the new model, Porsche painted the engine's air filter and intercooler housings Guards Red.

The Leichtbau was given a unique rear spoiler, front bumper intakes, and 959-style fender vents. The Exclusive Department offered a wide range of colors and equipment, allowing customers to personalize their Turbo S and create bespoke 911-based supercars.

The Leichtbau was capable of achieving 0-to-60 mph sprints in just 4.5 seconds and had a maximum speed of 180 mph, 12 mph faster than the standard Turbo models.

Porsche built just 86 examples of the Turbo S, all completed between July and November of 1992. Just 67 of these were left-hand drive. German customers placed the majority of orders. The Leichtbau, like the Carrera RS, was not offered for sale in the United States.

by Daniel Vaughan | Jun 2020