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I worked on Porsches for several years before retiring to the world of being a content creator. As a Porsche technician, I got to know some of the best (and worst) models made by the German automaker. There is no doubt there are some legendary Porsches out there, but there is one I’d say the carmaker missed the mark. Here are the six best Porsches (I think) that are out there, and the single worst.
1. Porsche 959 – The Ultimate Technological Marvel
The Porsche 959 is often hailed as a technological revolution that set the standard for high-performance cars in the 1980s. Designed as a road-going version of Porsche’s rally car, the 959 boasted a twin-turbocharged 2.8-liter flat-six engine that produced 450 horsepower, a groundbreaking all-wheel-drive system, and an advanced automatic transmission. It could reach 0-60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, a feat unheard of at the time.
Aside from its blistering performance, the 959 introduced cutting-edge features like an electronic control system for the suspension, electronic stability control, and even a sophisticated tire pressure monitoring system. It wasn’t just a car; it was a glimpse into the future of automotive engineering. Despite its astronomical price tag, the 959 became an instant classic, with only 337 units produced, making it highly sought after among collectors.
2. Porsche Carrera GT – The Supercar That Defined a Generation
If you’re looking for a car that captures the raw essence of Porsche’s performance heritage, look no further than the Carrera GT. Introduced in 2004, the Carrera GT featured a 5.7-liter V10 engine derived from Porsche’s racing program. This engine produced a mind-blowing 605 horsepower and could propel the car from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.
The Carrera GT’s natural driving dynamics were a blend of elegance and ferocity. Its carbon fiber construction, balanced handling, and ferocious acceleration make it a true supercar by any measure. More importantly, the Carrera GT bridged the gap between everyday driving and racecar performance, leaving an indelible mark on Porsche’s legacy.
3. Porsche 917 – The Le Mans Legend
Another legendary Porsche is the 917. It is honestly one of the most iconic cars in motorsport history. This race car dominated the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the late 1960s and early 1970s, cementing Porsche’s position as a racing powerhouse. The 917’s aerodynamic design and powerful 4.5-liter engine allowed it to reach speeds exceeding 200 mph, a monumental achievement at the time.
Overall, the 917’s sleek lines and blistering performance made it a cult favorite among car enthusiasts and collectors. The 917 was a testament to Porsche’s relentless pursuit of innovation, and its legacy lives on as one of the most beloved race cars in history.
4. Porsche 930 Turbo – The Early Turbocharged Icon
You can’t talk about the best Porsches without mentioning the 930 Turbo. With its wide rear fenders, iconic “whale tail” spoiler, and aggressive stance, the 930 Turbo became the definitive Porsche for a generation. Powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged engine, the 930 Turbo produced 260 horsepower, a groundbreaking figure for the time.
This car was the first of its kind to combine everyday usability with high-performance turbocharged power, making it an instant hit with sports car enthusiasts. The 930 Turbo’s thrilling performance and bold design made it one of the most recognizable Porsches ever built.
5. Porsche Cayman GT4 – The Track-Ready Precision Machine
In my opinion, the Porsche Cayman GT4 represents the pinnacle of Porsche’s mid-engine performance. Released in 2015, the Cayman GT4 was engineered to offer the perfect balance between street performance and track-ready precision. Its 3.8-liter flat-six engine, borrowed from the 911 Carrera S, generates 385 horsepower, providing ample power for a car that weighs just over 3,000 pounds.
What truly sets the Cayman GT4 apart is its remarkable handling. With its lightweight construction, precise steering, and powerful brakes, the GT4 offers a driving experience that’s hard to beat. It’s not just a sports car; it’s a car that’s as at home on a twisty backroad as it is at a racetrack.
6. Porsche 911 GT3 RS – The Ultimate 911
Last, but not least, is the Porsche 911 GT3 RS. This track-focused 911 is a true embodiment of Porsche’s racing DNA, offering razor-sharp handling, blistering acceleration, and track-ready features like active aerodynamics and a race-spec suspension. The 4.0-liter flat-six engine produces 520 horsepower, giving the GT3 RS the capability to reach 0-60 mph in just 3.0 seconds.
But it’s not just about raw numbers. The GT3 RS is one of the most engaging and rewarding cars to drive, offering a connection to the road that’s almost telepathic. Whether you’re on the track or taking it for a spirited drive, the GT3 RS is a car that truly comes alive.
The Porsche 924 – A Disastrous Misstep
When it comes to finding a vehicle where Porsche messed up, the 924 comes to mind. Introduced in the mid-1970s, the 924 was Porsche’s attempt to build a more affordable sports car. However, it was a departure from the brand’s traditional performance-focused roots. With its front-engine, water-cooled design and a lackluster 2.0-liter engine, the 924 was underwhelming when compared to Porsche’s other offerings.
While it had a relatively successful production run, the 924’s design and performance left much to be desired, earning it the unfortunate title of Porsche’s biggest disaster. It wasn’t a true Porsche by the standards that enthusiasts had come to expect, and it became a bit of a blemish on the brand’s otherwise stellar reputation.
Porsche’s Unmatched Legacy
I’ve not only worked on Porsches for more than 10 years, but I’ve loved them longer than that. These six cars represent some of the best Porsches out there. While the automaker messed up a bit with the 924, there are so many other examples of excellence from Porsche. In the years to come, Porsche will continue to push the envelope with its engineering and design.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.