The Porsche 911 combines apparent contradictions like no other sports car – such as between tradition and innovation or between exclusivity and high social acceptance, and of course between performance and efficiency. Porsche is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the 911 at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt with a special anniversary model based on the 911 Carrera S: like the original 911, the 911 50th Anniversary Edition is a coupé with a flat-six rear engine and rear wheel drive. Its efficient performance, active sport suspension – and special body are current and relevant: the anniversary 911 features the wide body, which is typically reserved for the all-wheel drive Carrera 4 models. In Canada, the “Power kit” engine upgrade is standard, bumping the 3.8 litre engine’s horsepower from 400 to 430. This special edition will be limited to 1963 cars worldwide, a number that represents the year of the 911 world premiere. A total of 50 units will be earmarked for Canada, matching the celebrated milestone.

Since its first presentation – initially as the type 901 – the sports car icon has excited automotive fans across the globe, and today it is considered the reference for all other sports cars. Since making its debut in 1963, the car has progressively developed without interruption. In the process, the unique character of the 911 was always preserved. The result of this evolution over a 50-year period – which included countless race victories as well – is a sports car that fully embodies the authenticity of the Porsche brand. Its DNA is reflected in all Porsche models.

This limited edition 430-hp 911 includes features that have contributed to the 50-year success story of the 911. For example, the 50th Anniversary Edition includes Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with special tuning to complement its increased track width and to add support to the exceptional cornering dynamics of the 911. Special 20-inch wheels are a visual tribute to the legendary “Fuchs” wheels and are finished in matte black paint with machine-polished centres. Chrome trim strips on the front air inlets, engine compartment grille fins, and panel between the rear lights emphasize the distinctive appearance of this limited edition model. Another technical highlight of the car’s equipment is the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) with bi-xenon headlights and dynamic cornering lights.

Increased engine power was made possible by carefully tuned modifications and adaptations to the electronic engine management, without affecting the fuel consumption. The core elements are special cylinder heads with different camshafts and an entirely new variable resonance intake system design with six air flaps and a resonance flap. An additional centre radiator keeps the higher specific power from overloading the thermal management system of the six-cylinder engine. Low exhaust back pressure is achieved by the sport exhaust system that is equipped with two sets of twin tailpipes with distinct styling; this system is also included. At the press of a button, the exhaust system is de-throttled, the two exhaust lines are merged and they generate a powerful engine sound. Also included is the Sport Chrono package with dynamic engine mounts for even sportier driving properties.Two unique colours are available for the anniversary 911, a darker graphite grey and a lighter geyser grey metallic. In addition black monochrome is also available. Each of the cars has a two-tone 3D-effect badge on the rear lid with the numbers “911 50”. The treatment is repeated with tri-colour embroidery on the headrest as well as bi-colour logo on the tachometer and aluminium door sill plates. It can also be found on the cup holder panel - together with the limited edition number of the individual vehicle. Other exterior characteristics of the special model are high-gloss window frames and sport design exterior mirrors on the doors panels.

There are tributes to the original 911 in the interior as well: green labelling on the instruments with white needles and silver pivot pin caps, just as it was 50 years ago. Another special feature is the centre panels of the leather seats, which are designed with a fabric pattern reminiscent of the “Pepita” tartan design from the 1960s. The full-leather interior is designed in agate grey or black with decorative stitching, some in contrasting colour. The driver and front passenger experience typical 911 driving fun in 14-way sport seats or optional 18-way sport seats plus. The gear shift or selector lever – which matches the decorative panels on the dashboard, doors and centre console in brushed aluminium – comes from the Porsche Exclusive program.

Thanks to its more powerful engine, the 911 50th Anniversary Edition sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds (with PDK in Sport Plus mode) and can reach a top speed of 308 km/h (306 with PDK). The limited edition models will start arriving at Canadian Porsche Centres in the fourth quarter with pricing beginning at $141,600.

Stay tuned for the upcoming issue of PRN: Ignition for our own take on the Porsche 911 50th anniversary.