Porsche Best Of The Best: Greatest Porsche 911 Models Of All Time

Best Of The Best: Greatest Porsche 911 Models Of All Time

The Porsche 911 is more than just a car; it’s an enduring symbol of performance, engineering excellence, and automotive passion. Since its debut in 1964, the 911 has remained the backbone of Porsche’s lineup, continuously evolving while staying true to its iconic silhouette and rear-engine layout. Over the decades, the 911 has carved out a legendary status in motorsport and on the road, with each generation building on the strengths of its predecessor. From air-cooled classics to cutting-edge track weapons, the 911 has consistently set benchmarks for sports car performance and driving pleasure.

These cars not only captured the imagination of enthusiasts but also shaped the legacy of the 911 as one of the greatest sports cars of all time. Let's delve into the best of the best, exploring ten of the most iconic Porsche 911 models ever created, from the groundbreaking 1964 911 (901) to the modern marvels of the 992 generation. Each of these cars represents a pivotal moment in the 911’s remarkable journey, offering a glimpse into why this model remains unparalleled.

1964 Porsche 911 (901)

The 1964 Porsche 911, originally designated as the 901, marked the genesis of an automotive icon. Designed to replace the Porsche 356, the 901 represented a bold step forward for the brand, blending innovation with heritage. At its core was a rear-mounted, air-cooled, flat-six engine producing 130 horsepower, paired with a five-speed manual transmission. This powertrain set the tone for the 911’s identity as a driver-focused sports car with exceptional balance and agility. The elegant design, conceived by Ferdinand "Butzi" Porsche, introduced the silhouette that remains instantly recognizable to this day.

What truly set the 901 apart was its engineering sophistication. The lightweight construction and rear-engine layout provided a unique driving experience that differentiated it from its contemporaries. Its handling characteristics demanded skill and rewarded precision, quickly earning it a reputation among enthusiasts. Despite its modest performance by today’s standards, the original 911 was a revelation, combining practicality with race-bred dynamics.

Porsche’s decision to rename the 901 to 911, due to Peugeot’s trademark on three-digit car names with a zero in the middle, only added to its mystique. Today, the 1964 Porsche 911 is celebrated as the car that laid the foundation for a lineage of performance excellence that has endured for nearly six decades.

9 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7

The 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 remains one of the most revered models in the marque’s history. Known as the first "RS" model, this car was created to homologate Porsche's entry into Group 4 racing. Featuring a 2.7-liter flat-six engine producing 210 horsepower, the RS 2.7 was light, powerful, and revolutionary for its time. Its hallmark "ducktail" rear spoiler was a pioneering aerodynamic feature, improving high-speed stability and reducing lift.

The RS 2.7 was as much about precision as it was about raw performance. Porsche engineers focused on weight reduction, crafting thinner steel panels, lightweight glass, and pared-down interiors to achieve a curb weight of just 2,370 pounds. This made it incredibly agile, with razor-sharp handling and a 0-60 mph time of just over 5 seconds—stunning figures for the era. The Carrera RS set the benchmark for how Porsche would define its high-performance ro

While only 1,580 units were produced, the RS 2.7’s legacy looms large. Its combination of rarity, performance, and motorsport pedigree makes it one of the most collectible 911 models. Even today, it represents the purest expression of Porsche’s ethos: blending cutting-edge technology with an unrelenting focus on driving engagement.

81987 Porsche 911 Turbo (930)

1978 Porsche 930 Turbo — Bring-A-Trailer

The 1987 Porsche 911 Turbo, also known as the 930, is a car that redefined what a high-performance road car could be. Introduced in 1975, the 930 evolved throughout the 1980s, with the 1987 model standing out as a culmination of its development. Powered by a 3.3-liter turbocharged flat-six engine, it delivered an exhilarating 282 horsepower and a top speed of over 160 mph, making it one of the fastest cars of its time.

What made the 930 legendary was its ferocity. The turbocharged powerplant was notoriously laggy, delivering a sudden and brutal surge of power once the turbo spooled up—a characteristic that earned it the nickname "the Widowmaker." Drivers needed skill and respect to handle the car’s propensity for oversteering, but this challenge was part of its allure. Combined with flared wheel arches, a wide rear track, and the iconic "whale tail" spoiler, the 930 was as visually striking as it was thrilling to drive.

The 1987 model also benefited from advancements like a five-speed manual gearbox, which replaced the earlier four-speed unit, providing more precise control. Today, the 930 Turbo is celebrated as the car that cemented the 911 Turbo as a performance icon, laying the groundwork for decades of innovation in forced induction.

1968 Revology Mustang GT 2+2: Full Review

This is the car that makes Mustang feel like the hero you see in the movies.

71995 Porsche 911 GT2 (993)

Porsche 993 911 GT2 driving on a track — Porsche

The 1995 Porsche 911 GT2, based on the final air-cooled generation of 911s, the 993, remains one of the most sought-after and brutal iterations of the model. Originally developed for GT2 racing, it was essentially a track car for the road. Under the hood was a 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine producing an astonishing 424 horsepower, sent exclusively to the rear wheels for maximum engagement—and maximum challenge.

The GT2’s lightweight ethos was clear in every detail. Porsche stripped unnecessary comforts, fitting thinner glass, aluminum doors, and even deleting the rear seats in favor of a roll cage. This obsessive focus on weight reduction resulted in a curb weight of just over 3,000 pounds, allowing the car to sprint to 60 mph in just 4 seconds. Combined with a top speed exceeding 180 mph, it was a supercar in every sense.

Visually, the 993 GT2 stood out with its widebody stance, massive rear wing, and aggressive aero elements. While production numbers were limited, making it incredibly rare, its legacy as the ultimate analog driving machine is secure. Even decades later, the 993 GT2 commands respect as a purist’s dream.

61999 Porsche 911 GT3 (996)

996 Porsche 911 GT3, front quarter view — Porsche

The 1999 Porsche 911 GT3 marked a turning point for the brand, as the first model to bear the now-iconic GT3 badge. Built on the 996 platform, it reintroduced motorsport DNA to the 911 lineup, bridging the gap between road cars and racing machines. Powered by a naturally aspirated 3.6-liter flat-six engine derived from the GT1 Le Mans race car, it delivered 360 horsepower and revved to an impressive 8,200 rpm.

The GT3 was a purist’s dream. Porsche offered it exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission and fitted it with upgraded suspension, brakes, and aerodynamics to deliver an unparalleled driving experience. The car’s track credentials were underscored by its lap time of under 8 minutes at the Nürburgring Nordschleife—a remarkable feat for its time.

Though initially controversial due to the 996 generation’s new water-cooled engine and "fried egg" headlights, the GT3 won over critics with its raw, unfiltered performance. It set the template for future GT3 models, cementing its place as one of the greatest drivers' cars in 911 history.

52010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS (997.2)

2011 Porsche 997 GT3 RS in gray and orange posing in driveway — Bring A Trailer

The 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS (997.2) represents the apex of naturally aspirated performance for its era. Powered by a 3.8-liter flat-six engine, it produced 450 horsepower, which paired with its razor-sharp chassis, lightweight construction, and a manual transmission made for an unforgettable driving experience. Porsche’s engineers fine-tuned every element, from the aerodynamics to the suspension, to ensure it was as effective on the track as it was engaging on the road.

The GT3 RS was defined by its visceral nature. From its distinctive graphics and massive rear wing to its titanium exhaust system, everything about the car screamed purpose. Weighing just 3,020 pounds, it was capable of hitting 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and lapping the Nürburgring in 7 minutes and 33 seconds. The RS model was also notable for offering dynamic engine mounts that improved stability during aggressive driving.

Collectors and enthusiasts alike regard the 997.2 GT3 RS as one of the finest naturally aspirated 911s ever built. Its combination of analog purity, engineering brilliance, and stunning performance ensures its enduring legacy.

The Ford Escort MK1 RS Has Been Reborn As A Lightweight, High-Revving Rocket

Buyers can get the Escort RS restomod with up to 296 horsepower. Prices start at around $375,000.

42016 Porsche 911 R (991.1)

Silver 2017 Porsche 911 R driving on road — Porsche

The 2016 Porsche 911 R is a love letter to purists, blending the best aspects of the 911 GT3 RS with a focus on analog driving pleasure. Powered by a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six engine producing 500 horsepower, it was offered exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission—a deliberate nod to enthusiasts yearning for simplicity in an increasingly digital world.

Lightweight materials, including carbon fiber and magnesium, kept the car’s weight at just 3,021 pounds, while subtle aerodynamic tweaks ensured it remained true to its minimalist ethos. Unlike its GT3 RS sibling, the 911 R eschewed large wings and aggressive styling, favoring a more understated appearance that belied its ferocious performance. It could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds and offered a top speed of 200 mph.

Limited to just 991 units, the 911 R became an instant classic, with values skyrocketing on the secondary market. For many, it represents the pinnacle of what a driver-focused 911 can be—a car that prioritizes connection over outright speed.

32018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS (991.2)

Front 3/4 view of Blue 2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS driving on track. — Porsche

The 2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS is the ultimate expression of turbocharged performance. With a 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine producing a staggering 700 horsepower, it was the most powerful 911 ever built at the time. This immense power was paired with a lightweight construction, including extensive use of carbon fiber and a magnesium roof, resulting in a blistering 0-60 mph time of 2.7 seconds.

Porsche’s focus on aerodynamics and downforce was evident in the massive rear wing, front splitter, and active aero elements. The car’s performance capabilities were best showcased when it shattered the Nürburgring lap record for production cars, completing the circuit in just 6 minutes and 47.3 seconds.

While its performance is breathtaking, the GT2 RS is equally impressive as an engineering masterpiece. It represents the zenith of Porsche’s turbocharged innovation, proving that the 911 can rival the world’s most exotic hypercars while remaining usable on the road.

22021 Porsche 911 Turbo S (992)

2024 Porsche 911 Turbo in silver posing in front of mountain range — Porsche

The 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo S (992) is the epitome of refinement and speed. Powered by a 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine delivering 640 horsepower, it can rocket from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.6 seconds. The Turbo S combines brute force with advanced technology, featuring an all-wheel-drive system, active aerodynamics, and rear-wheel steering for unparalleled performance.

What sets the 992 Turbo S apart is its ability to blend luxury with performance. The interior is a showcase of cutting-edge tech, with a 10.9-inch touchscreen, premium materials, and a suite of driver-assistance features. Despite its supercar credentials, it remains remarkably comfortable and practical for daily use, embodying the "everyday supercar" ethos.

The 992 Turbo S continues the tradition of redefining what a grand touring sports car can be. With its unmatched combination of speed, sophistication, and usability, it’s a testament to Porsche’s relentless pursuit of perfection.

Cars-With-Supercar-Performance-For-Half-The-Price

10 Cars With Supercar-Like Performance For Half The Price

Supercars are extremely fun to drive, but they're also very expensive. Here are 10 cars withe same performance for half the price.

12022 Porsche 911 GT3 (992)

Front three-quarters shot of a white 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 — Porsche

The 2022 Porsche 911 GT3 (992) is a triumph of engineering, delivering racecar performance in a road-legal package. Its naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine produces 502 horsepower and revs to an astonishing 9,000 rpm, providing a sensory overload for enthusiasts. Available with a six-speed manual or a lightning-quick PDK transmission, the GT3 can hit 60 mph in 3.2 seconds.

Aerodynamics plays a crucial role in the 992 GT3’s design. The swan-neck rear wing and aggressive diffuser generate significant downforce, while the double-wishbone front suspension, a first for a 911, enhances cornering precision. The result is a car capable of lapping the Nürburgring in under 6 minutes and 59 seconds—a record for a naturally aspirated 911.

The 992 GT3 is not just a performance machine; it’s a celebration of what makes the 911 special. With its perfect blend of analog thrills and modern innovation, it stands as one of the greatest 911s ever made.

script type="text/javascript"> atOptions = { 'key' : '4b7287987483ff41f27c1c0f4e8c6eb3', 'format' : 'iframe', 'height' : 60, 'width' : 468, 'params' : {} };