FYI: The iconic Slantnose Porsche 911 might be making a thrilling comeback, honoring its legendary design from the 1980s.
Slantnose Porsche 911: A Revival on the Horizon
Porsche has long been celebrated for crafting unique special editions of its iconic 911 model, often paying homage to its illustrious past. Models like the 911 R, 911 Spirit 70, and 911 Speedster have all captivated enthusiasts. Now, whispers of a comeback for the Slantnose Porsche 911 are breathing new life into this storied marque.
A Nod to the Past
Recent trademark applications in Europe hint at Porsche’s plans to revisit the distinct Slantnose design, a cherished staple of the flamboyant 1980s automotive scene. This design traces its roots to the Porsche Motorsports 935 race car, which inspired Kremer Racing to develop a road-legal body kit in 1981. By 1982, Mansour Ojjeh, then-owner of Tag Heuer, commissioned Porsche to create a road-ready version, resulting in a project based on the 930 Turbo. Recognizing its popularity, Porsche eventually introduced a flat-fender look in 1986 under the Sonderwunsch program.
Exclusivity and Value
This enticing package wasn’t cheap, increasing the standard 930’s cost by 60%. Ultimately, Porsche crafted 948 Slantnose-spec vehicles, with only 160 of these making their way to the US market. While aftermarket versions abound, factory-built Slantnose models command significantly higher values on the secondary market.
Today’s Modern Slope
Earlier this month, curious moves by the European Union’s intellectual property office, focusing on terms like "Porsche Flachbau" and "Flachbau RS," caught enthusiasts’ attention. While it’s uncertain which modern 911 might feature the classic Slantnose styling, the "RS" designation adds intrigue. Could it be based on the acclaimed 911 GT3? Time will tell.
In recent years, Porsche teased aficionados with a limited edition, modern 935 race car, heavily inspired by the 911 GT2 RS Clubsport, featuring 700 horsepower and distinctive Slantnose-esque front styling. However, this beast wasn’t built for the road, nor did it include the legendary pop-up headlights that defined its predecessors.
Conclusion
As anticipation builds, Porsche fans worldwide are eager to see if the Slantnose will reclaim its place on the roads. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the 911’s storied history, this potential revival is brimming with excitement.
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Authored by Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
