2012 Porsche 911 Carrera S

When Porsche unveiled the Type 991 generation 911 at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2011, it marked the most substantial overhaul of the model since its air-cooled days. 

A longer wheelbase, wider track, and a completely re-engineered platform moved the 911 into a new era of performance and refinement, but crucially, without sacrificing the visceral spirit that made its predecessors icons.

Developed under the stewardship of Wolfgang Hatz and driven relentlessly by Porsche’s pursuit of technical purity, the 991 was the first 911 built on an entirely new chassis since the original 996. It also marked the final chapter for natural aspiration in the Carrera series, making this 3.8-litre flat-six one of those bookends we’re always hunting for. A last hurrah before turbochargers became the norm.

Beneath the rear decklid lies Porsche’s 9A1 engine. A masterpiece of modern engineering, delivering 395 horsepower with direct fuel injection and VarioCam Plus wizardry. In the Carrera S, this translates to 0–100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds. 

Paired with Porsche Active Suspension Management and a lightening fast seven-speed PDK gearbox, it’s an exquisitely balanced package. Sophisticated enough for the weekday commute, but with a bark and bite that would make Derek Bell crack a smile.

Turn the key, tap the bi-modal exhaust valve open and you’re met with one of Porsche’s great soundtracks: a howl that crescendos to 7,800 rpm, mechanical and raw yet refined. The kind of thing that makes you miss your exit on purpose and something we’re getting more requests for at the shop – cars built pre-emissions and noise belt tightening.

Offered here is a superb Dark Blue Metallic over Black Leather 2012 911 Type 991 Carrera S, delivered new by Porsche Centre Sydney South in May the same year.

With just 33,000 kilometres and with its original book pack and both keys in accompaniment, this beautifully specified Carrera S includes the following bespoke options:

• Adaptive Sports Seats Plus (18-way)

• Porsche Dynamic Light System

• Light Design Package

• Sport Chrono Package

• PASM and Power Steering Plus

• Electric slide/tilt sunroof

• 20-inch Carrera Classic alloy wheels

• Porsche Entry & Drive

• Rear parking sensors

• Porsche Crest embossed headrests

One could call it a daily driver with a weekend soul but that would be underselling it. As the last naturally aspirated Carrera S, the 991 holds a unique place in the 911 lineage: a car that walks the fine line between old-school purity and modern sophistication. 

This example, with its elegant specification and careful stewardship, is just the 911 you hope to find with all the road-going charisma we've come to expect of the marque.