New Porsche Speedster

Porsche will make just 356 examples of its new 911 Speedster.

The double-bubble tonneau cover, exceptionally large rump and black stone guards on the arches can only mean one thing - Porsche has revived the 911 Speedster.

It's been 16 years and three model generations since we last saw a 911 displaying the Speedster badge, but the latest version is equally nostalgic. Only 356 will be built - homage to the Porsche 356 Speedster launched in 1953.

In most respects it's pretty similar to a 911 Cabriolet, but the new Speedster is 60mm shorter and the windscreen has a steeper angle.

The Pure Blue paintwork is exclusive to the model, though it's also available in white. There is a number of more subtle styling tweaks including a new front spoiler, a black windscreen surround and bespoke side skirts.

Power comes from Porsche's 3.8-litre flat-six engine, this time tuned to pump out 408hp - 23hp more than the 911 Carrera S - via the company's well-known seven-speed PDK, dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

It will come as no surprise that the Speedster will make its debut at the forthcoming Paris Motor Show.

Published on: September 21, 2010