Porsche has unveiled a limited-production special edition of its 911 GT3 to mark 75 years since the German marque first began selling cars in the UK. This exclusive vehicle will be one of only 51 examples and makes its public debut at this weekend's Icons of Porsche, Sunstede Silverstone Edition event.
The Earls Court 51 Edition takes its name from a deliberate tribute to the inaugural Porsche sports car that arrived in the UK. A Porsche 356 was first showcased at the 1951 Earls Court Motor Show, sparking a lasting British affinity for the brand. Alongside the new 911 GT3 Earls Court 51 Edition at Silverstone, a factory-recommissioned 1951 Porsche 356 will also be on display.
Developed in collaboration with Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur in Stuttgart and based on the 911 GT3 Touring, this special edition features unique 'Earls Court Green' paint colour that echoes the shade of the first Porsche displayed in the UK. The distinctive colour adorns the wingless body and two-tone alloy wheels. Design nods include a Brilliant Silver front bonnet stripe, reminiscent of the handle on a Porsche 356, with wing mirrors and door handles finished in the same silver. An exclusive 'Earls Court 51' badge, inspired by the logo of Reutter (the original body manufacturer for the 356), graces the engine cover.
Under the bonnet, the Earls Court 51 Edition retains the potent 510hp naturally aspirated 4.0-litre flat-six engine found in the standard 911 GT3 Touring. A six-speed manual gearbox is fitted as standard, with a PDK dual-clutch automatic available as an option. Performance figures are impressive, with 0-62mph achieved in 3.9 seconds (3.4 seconds with PDK) and a top speed of 194mph.
The interior boasts a wealth of nostalgic touches, offering a modern interpretation of the colours and fabrics found within the original 356. A blend of Night Green and Chalk Beige leather and corduroy covers much of the cabin, complemented by Paldao wood veneer inlays on the dashboard, centre console, door cards, and the back panels of the GT3 Touring’s sports seats. The gear knob is also crafted from wood, maintaining Porsche tradition. Black leather sun visors feature an embossed Union Jack motif, while the headrests bear an 'Earls Court 51' logo.
Buyers will pay a substantial £251,951 for one of these exclusive vehicles, with each purchase including a 1:18 scale model, commemorative coffee table book, and an overnight 'Weekender' bag made from Night Green leather. A matching Porsche Design timepiece, with a dial inspired by the classic 356's instrument graphics, is also available.