Porsche 911 Turbo S Exclusive Series (2018)

By motoring writer – Daniel Matthews

Porsche introduced the 991 generation of 911 at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, replacing the 997, and as an entirely new platform – the third since the 911’s birth in 1963. Compared to the 997, the 991 was slightly larger and had a 100 mm-longer wheelbase, 70 mm-longer overall length, and a new transaxle so that the rear wheel could be moved 76 mm backwards, improving weight distribution and cornering ability. Through the use of aluminium, high-strength steel and some composites, the weight dropped to 1380 kg for the manual Carrera but rose to 1605 kg for the all-wheel-drive PDK Turbo. The ZF-produced PDK transmission is available on all 911 Carrera models and uses seven forward gears, of which seventh is merely for fuel consumption. The Turbo was introduced in May 2013, and uses a twin-turbocharged 3.8-litre flat-six engine that produces 513 bhp and 457 Ib/ft of torque – the ‘S’ variant makes 552 bhp and 553 Ib/ft of torque. Both the Turbo and Turbo S are all-wheel-drive and feature the seven-speed PDK gearbox, active aerodynamics and rear-wheel steering as standard.

Porsche introduced the Turbo S Exclusive Series in 2017, a stunning variant of the 911 to be built in limited numbers. The base underpinnings are the same as the Turbo S, but an extra 27 bhp was generated, taking it from 0 to 60 mph in 2.6 seconds. The chassis was left alone – but, to be honest, the Turbo S was already outstanding with adaptive dampers, active anti-roll bars, and carbon ceramic brakes. What makes the Exclusive Series special, however, is its aesthetics, as it is painted in Golden Yellow – other colours are available – with exposed carbon fibre stripes along the new composite bonnet and roof. A new rear diffuser, stainless steel exhaust tips and carbon fibre intake scoop are added, and a set of unique 20-inch black wheels with matching gold highlights, along with black-painted brake callipers with a gold Porsche logo. The interior copies this theme with gold highlighting throughout, and the Exclusive Series was available with a range of accessories from a fitted luggage set to a matching Porsche Design watch. Only 500 were produced.