Why the Ultra-Rare '86 Porsche 911 Turbo S Didn't Sell: A Tale of Exclusivity and High Stakes
Imagine a vehicle so rare, so steeped in performance heritage, it commands a quarter-million-dollar price tag without even trying. We're diving into the story of the 1986 Porsche 911 Turbo S, a car that has car enthusiasts and collectors alike buzzing, questioning, and dreaming. This isn't just any Porsche; it’s a member of an exclusive club of just 15 units made specifically for the Swiss market by Porsche’s importer AMAG. But what makes this story even more fascinating is a recent sale attempt that saw this beast surprisingly remain unsold. The asking price? A cool $185,000. But the dealer wouldn't let it go for a dime less, signaling it's worth far more in the eye of exclusivity.
A Legend Resurrected
The 1986 Porsche 911 Turbo S stands as a testament to the golden era of automotive engineering, an epoch when cars were both feared and revered. Nicknamed 'The Widowmaker', the Porsche 930, as it was officially known, was infamous for its challenging handle – thanks in part to a potent combination of a turbo lag, a short wheelbase, and a proclivity for oversteering that could catch even the most seasoned drivers off guard. Its turbocharged 3.3-liter powerhouse under the skin elevated the 930 Turbo into the annals of motoring legend.
Yet, amidst reverence and awe, the car we spotlight today transcends its brethren. AMAG’s limited commission resulted in a Porsche 911 Turbo S that not only boasts subtle yet impactful modifications but also an improved performance that could leave modern cars trailing in its wake. Exteriorly, it’s a palette of precision with a sleek black finish, complemented by a range of aftermarket enhancements including FSH fiberglass add-ons, Rennline front tow hooks, and a set of RSR-style 17-inch alloy wheels shod in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires.
Inside the Exotic Maverick
Step inside, and the custom-trimmed DRS black leather bucket seats greet you, their four-point cam-lock harnesses promising an embrace that's both secure and bracing. The cabin, a finely curated cockpit, features a Wiechers Clubsport roll bar, elegant RS-style door panels, and an ambient glow from the LED lighting that throws every fine detail into sharp relief. But it's the dash-mounted 1970 Heuer Super Autavia chronograph that truly bridges the gap between this Porsche’s exhilarating past and its undeniable present allure.
Sitting at the heart of its exhilarating power is a turbocharged 3.3-liter Type 930/66 flat-six engine that roars to life with 330 horsepower, fed into the rear wheels through a meticulously fitted four-speed manual gearbox, enhanced with Rennline bearings for that race-car feel every enthusiast craves.
The Price of Rarity
The plight of this particular Porsche, a tale of a price unbudging and a deal undonned, spins a narrative of rarity, desirability, and ultimately, the pricelessness of exclusivity in the automotive world. At $185,000, the offer on the table fell short of the dealer's expectations, underscoring the notion that some cars transcend their material valuation, becoming icons of a bygone era that collectors deem as priceless treasures. With its high mileage and history speaking volumes, the dealer stands firm in the belief that this piece of automotive royalty could, and should, command upwards of $200,000.
As we circle back to our opening thoughts, the story of this 1986 Porsche 911 Turbo S serves not just as a chapter in the rich tapestry of automotive history but as a lesson in value, desirability, and the irreplaceable charm of exclusivity in the car collecting world. In refusing $185,000, the dealer made a bold statement: not all that glitters is gold, but some cars are indeed more precious than diamonds.