Bonhams is preparing to auction a remarkable piece of Porsche history: a 1998 Porsche 911 Type 993 Turbo Coupé, known as “The Last Waltz.” This iconic vehicle is celebrated as the final air-cooled 911 produced before the model’s original production run ended, marking a significant moment in automotive history.
Commissioned by German author Clauss Vanderborg, “The Last Waltz” stands out not only for its historical importance but also for its bespoke features. Vanderborg, a close associate of Porsche founder Ferry Porsche, had this car specially crafted by Porsche’s Sonderwunsch (Special Wishes) department. The vehicle is finished in a striking Ocean Blue and is powered by a 443 hp engine, matching the Turbo S variant. Its interior is fully trimmed in Night Blue leather, and a plaque on the dashboard commemorates Ferry Porsche.
Interestingly, “The Last Waltz” was completed on March 27, 1998, the same day Ferry Porsche passed away. This timing imbues the car with an added layer of significance, symbolizing the end of an era for Porsche enthusiasts. Despite being finished just before Jerry Seinfeld’s Mexico Blue Carrera 4S, the car was retained at the factory for six months for final customization, making it the last customer car of the air-cooled 911 lineage.
With only 11,000 kilometers on the odometer, this Porsche has been meticulously preserved through its ownership in Japan, Belgium, and the UK. Its combination of historical value and exceptional condition makes it a standout example of collectible Porsches. The sale includes a letter from Porsche confirming its status as the last air-cooled 911 produced.
This significant auction is set to take place at the Goodwood Revival, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the Porsche 911 Turbo. The auction will begin on September 7 at Chichester, Goodwood, with an estimated value of £800,000 GBP (approximately $1,050,000 USD). As one of the most collectible Porsches ever to be offered at auction, “The Last Waltz” represents a unique opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike to own a piece of automotive history.
