1987 Porsche

The Porsche 911 Carrera was introduced in 1984 to replace the longstanding SC model and in Porsche’s typically evolutionary fashion, it was visually very similar to the outgoing model. However, this similarity concealed a number of technical upgrades to ensure that whilst the new 911 still looked like a 911, significant gains had been made in performance and economy. These gains were largely thanks to the new 3.2-litre, flat-six, which saw power increase from the SC’s 204bhp, to 231bhp and with it a top speed of 152mph.

The new Carrera 3.2 sat below the supercar challenging 911 Turbo, yet performance was certainly more than adequate for most thrill seekers. And while the Turbo was the ultimate 80s kid’s bedroom wall, poster car, it was also eye-wateringly expensive for grown-ups, too.

With this in mind, in 1985 Porsche pulled a masterstroke, by launching a new M491 Supersport Equipment (SSE) option for the standard Carrera, whereby a new car could be specified from the factory, with full Turbo bodywork, brakes and suspension. Known as the Carrera Supersport. Just 632 RHD examples came to the UK, and only 205 of those were Cabriolets, making this a rare air-cooled 911 today.

Out Of The Blue

Which is exactly what we have here, albeit for many in even more desirable Cabriolet spec. Finished in Venetian Blue, it makes a nice change from the more usual 80s black, red (Guards of course) and white. Linen leather Sports seats, lift the predominantly blue trimmed interior.

Delivered in March 1987 via Charles Follett, this immaculate Supersport Carrera Cab, has covered just 53,000-miles and has been used only sparingly, covering just 6000-miles in the last 12-years or so. And keen Carrera 3.2 spotters will know that being a 1987 car, this Supersport is fitted with the desirable Getrag G50 gearbox, which even Type 915 fans such as ourselves, will admit is a slicker shifter than the earlier ‘box.

In terms of other desirable features, this Cabriolet also has factory fitted air-conditioning, which might sound pointless on a Cabriolet, but not every day is a roof down day, and a lack of air con is what often curtails maximum usage for classic 911s. Point is, better air con, than no air con!

History is substantial the condition does rather speak for itself, the paintwork, interior and importantly, the Cabriolet powerfold hood are in excellent condition. We know also that it has had a full engine rebuild by Walkers Autotech in 2018, plus a new clutch, at a cost approaching £20,000.

In view of its limited recent use, this Carrera Supersport will be prepared by Paul Stephens, ready for summer use. What a way to get around.

For those who believe a true sports car experience is one without a roof, but you still want that 911 driving experience, then this has to be the ultimate and with added Supersport rarity. A superbly presented car for the discerning enthusiast.