Acknowledging the rich history of hidden headlamps, we delve into the nostalgic era that birthed this iconic feature. The Cord 810 of 1935 pioneered hidden headlamps, followed by Alfa Romeo’s custom 8C example in 1936 and the unforgettable Buick Y-Job in 1938. Pop-up headlamps, the most popular concealing mechanism in their history, graced automobiles until 2004, when safety concerns led to their extinction. The Lotus Esprit V8 and the fifth-gen Corvette were the last series-production cars to feature this unique lighting system.
Venturing into German automotive history, the 930-series 911 Slantnose, known as Flachbau in Germany, emerges as a notable figure. Initially available through the Special Order Program and later directly from the factory starting in 1987, the Flachbau styling package officially debuted in 1981. With a total of 948 finished units, including 160 in the United States, the 930-series Flachbau has become highly collectible. Pixel artist Glen Cordle pays homage to this classic with renderings of a red 992-series Turbo S adorned with the beloved pop-up headlamps, showcasing a seamless fusion of heritage and contemporary design.
The visual drama is accentuated by louvers on the front fenders, a retro wing at the rear, and classic side air intakes. The Exclusive Manufaktur 20-inch and 21-inch wheels, priced at $2,490, complete the distinctive look. However, enthusiasts longing for the return of pop-up headlamps face disappointment, as safety regulations outlawed them over two decades ago. The complexity they add to already intricate vehicles, coupled with potential nighttime failures, led to their demise.
Comparing the 992 Neunelfer in Turbo S attire to its 930 predecessor reveals stark differences beneath the surface. The 992 boasts a more potent flat-six engine, an advanced all-wheel-drive system, and a dual-clutch transmission, marking a significant evolution from the original. While special editions like the 911 S/T and 911 GT3 RS may command higher prices, the 911 Turbo S stands as the pinnacle of road-going Neunelfer, retailing at $230,400 in the US. With a remarkable 2.6 seconds for the 0-60 mph sprint and a top speed of 205 mph, it reigns supreme.
Anticipating even greater speed, the upcoming mid-cycle refresh of the 992 will introduce hybrid assistance. The 992.2 Turbo S is poised to unleash between 700 and 800 metric horsepower, entering the realm of supercars like the McLaren Artura and Ferrari 296. The legacy of the 911 Turbo S continues to evolve, blending the allure of pop-up headlamps with cutting-edge performance in a celebration of Porsche’s iconic heritage.
