SportClassic. Two words melded into one. A neologism that carries with it a lot of provenance. In 2009, Porsche launched two special versions of the 911 that were above even the coveted GT3 RS – the Speedster and the SportClassic. Unfortunately, only one can be the topic of conversation today, and it’s the SportClassic, having recently been updated for 2024.

A car built to echo the style of the 1960’s and 70’s-being predominantly inspired by the very first 911 (1964-1973), as well as the 911 Carrera RS 2.7 (1972). The 2024 SportClassic, to all intents and purposes, looks to be the older brother of the 2009 model. Porsche frames the SportClassic as the second model of its ‘heritage design strategy’ from Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur. Whatever reason Porsche has used to justify the SportClassic’s existence, it’s good enough for us, because along with the 911 S/T, the SportClassic could be one of the last cars for the purist that we’ll ever see. Retro, Singer-esque looks coupled to a manual gearbox (no PDK is available), and 3.7-litres of twin-turbocharged flat-six that powers the rear wheels only. A formula that nods to the 911’s birth in the 60’s and 70’s as a purebred sportscar. Plus, who doesn’t love that ducktail spoiler?

Year: 2024

Mileage: 250

Colour: Sport Grey

Interior: Heritage design two-tone Cognac & Black extended leather interior with contrasting Houndstooth seat centres.

Open the door, and the SportClassic is unashamedly retro on the inside too, with the famous Houndstooth pattern competing for your eye’s attention with the Cognac leather. A place which could never be mistaken for another 911

Given its rarity, the SportClassic has a suitably large standard specification, including carbon ceramics, PDLS Plus, front lift, and even 18-way adaptive sports seats. It also has the famous ‘double-bubble’ roof, inspired by the Porsche Panamerica and the removable roof of the Carrera GT. The SportClassic also has noticeably wider body, which previously has been reserves for four-wheel drive and Turbo models. And until the 911 S/T came along and stole the limelight, the SportClassic was the most powerful 911 with a manual gearbox.

What’s the point in the SportClassic then? Well, for starters, it’s rarer. Porsche will make 1,963 S/Ts, but only 1,250 SportClassics. But that’s not the point. The SportClasssic is about a different driving experience altogether.

See more details HERE