Porsche 911 Sport Classic Is a 2023 RWD Ducktail Dream
Porsche 911 Sport Classic features retro styling, a turbo engine, rear-wheel-drive powertrain, and is available only in manual.
It’s hard to beat the look of a classic Porsche. It’s hard to beat, whether it’s the wide quarter panels or identifying round headlights. Of course, the iconic staple of previous Porsche 911 Turbo models, the ducktail spoiler, is a fan favorite. So, it’s more than pleasing that Porsche decided to bring it back. Don’t get too excited, though, because they aren’t making very many. In a recent press release, Porsche announced the 2023 Porsche 911 Sport Classic. Not only does it feature all sorts of fantastic cues to the iconic Porsche heritage, but it is now the most powerful Porsche model available with a manual transmission.
Unfortunately, though, the 911 Sport Classic is a limited edition car. Porsche is only building 1,250 of them. So, if you’re interested, you’d better start talking to your local dealer immediately.
The Iconic Ducktail Is Only the Beginning of the Retro Styling Cues
The legendary ducktail makes its return to the 911 for the first time in years with the 911 Sport Classic. However, this special edition model also features a special carbon fiber reinforced plastic hood with a dip in the middle and a “double bubble” roof, resembling that of classic 911s. Additionally, a color available on the 911 Sport Classic, known as Sport Gray, is reminiscent of Porsche’s Fashion Gray, a color that was available on the 356.
To truly call back to the wide 911 Turbo models of the past, the 911 Sport Classic shares the chassis of the 992 Turbo S. However, the rear fenders are accentuated a bit more. Additionally, despite sharing the chassis with the Turbo S model and coming with a turbocharged engine, the 911 Sport Classic does not have air intakes on the front of the quarter panels. Porsche had to create special tooling for these fenders specifically for this model.
Inside, the retro styling cues continue. The seat inserts and dashboard are laden with a checkerboard pattern. Furthermore, the interior features semi-aniline leather in either black or cognac. This is the first time Porsche has used this type of leather in a vehicle since the 918 Spyder.
Finally, the wood trim tips the retro interior scales. You’ll also find a badge indicating the Sport Classic’s production number. Each of the 1,250 models Porsche will produce comes with its own unique numbered plaque.
Power Output, However, Is Not Reminiscent of the Past
The Sport Classic uses the same 3.7-liter flat-six engine found in 992 Turbo models. However, it features unique mapping to make it more compatible with the manual transmission.
Power output is an astonishing 543 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque, making this the most powerful Porsche model currently offered with a manual transmission. For reference, that is over 40 horsepower more than the 992 GT3.
Also, unlike the past models it’s paying tribute to, it features plenty of high-performance components. Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) with calipers in black, Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), Rear Axle Steering, the Sport Chrono Package, and a specially modified Sport Exhaust are all standard on the Sport classic. Additionally, it has Porsche’s Active Suspension Management system.
Overall, the Sport Classic is a lovely limited-run 911 paying tribute to its long and successful heritage.
Photos: PorscheÂ