1989 Porsche Carrera Speedster

The six-cylinder boxer engine was a concept originated by Dr. Porsche’s nephew, Ferdinand Piech. Thanks in large part to Piech’s engineering prowess, this aluminum-alloy, air-cooled engine remained a Porsche staple, developing and evolving while remaining true to many of its original design principles. By 1989 the engine had grown from its original 2 liters to 3.2 liters. Power increased proportionally, from 130 hp in 1963 to 231 hp (DIN) by 1989.

Not unlike the engine, many facets of the 911’s original design remained consistent—unit-body construction, rear-mounted engine, dry-sump lubrication, independent suspension, four-wheel disc brakes and excellent ergonomics, all enclosed by an aerodynamically effective fastback body. Popular Targa top and convertible versions were also offered by the early 1970s.

The 1989 911 Carrera Speedster, with its steeply raked, low-cut windshield and cockpit cover, was inspired by the original...