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Porsche announces special edition 911 Turbo as a tribute to Britain … wait, what?

The 911 Turbo has come along way in its 40-year run, and Porsche is planning a new model to celebrate.

A U.K. exclusive, limited edition model called the 911 Turbo S GB Edition is already available to order and wears several distinct homages to the original Turbo.

The inaugural 911 Turbo (called the Porsche 930 in North America) was first produced in 1974. Porsche’s first turbocharged vehicle, it was designed to compete directly with high-powered supercars from Ferrari and Lamborghini.

It featured revised suspension, larger brakes, and of course, more power than the standard Carrera. It was also responsible for Porsche’s iconic “whale tail” spoiler, an aesthetic icon in the German automaker’s 83-year history.

Over the years, engine displacement increased, turbo lag was minimized, and the rear engine layout was fine-tuned to emphasize stability and trademark German precision.

These improvements have culminated in one of the most impressive Turbo models to date. While the original 930 produced 260 horsepower from its 3.0-liter flat six, the GB Edition has the 3.8-liter twin turbo flat six from the 911 Turbo S (there are no engine modifications), which makes a whopping 560 hp. The massive power allows the Turbo to reach 60 mph from a standstill in just 2.9 seconds.

1974 Porsche 911 Turbo
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Only 40 GB Edition 911s will be made, one for every year since the 930’s debut. It costs around £150,237, which is about £8,117 more than the standard Turbo S, but customers will get some cool U.K.-specific toys for their money.

The rear spoiler, 20-inch Sport Classic alloys, side mirrors and door handles have been finished in a glossy black, and a bold ‘Porsche’ banner runs down the side of the car, paying tribute to the 911s of old.

The interior is adorned with custom Union Jack emblems, black leather upholstery, carbon fiber trim, and special ‘Guards Red’ stitching. Porsche is including design sketches and a personalized photo album of the cars production, as well as a custom indoor car cover.

The GB Edition shows that Porsche clearly has a soft spot for the UK market, so if you’re dreaming of a special edition 911 in your country, you’d better get spending.

Andrew Hard
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Andrew first started writing in middle school and hasn't put the pen down since. Whether it's technology, music, sports, or…
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