An incredible sixteen years ago Disney and Pixar released Cars, co-starring Bonnie Hunt as the voice of Sally Carrera, a sentient 996-generation 911. Sally is the love interest for the movie’s protagonist, Lightning McQueen. She moved to the fictional Route 66 town Radiator Springs after the fast-paced life of a Los Angeles attorney didn’t sit well with her, preferring the more chill vibes of a remote desert oasis. As a way to commemorate the film, Porsche decided to build a special one-off 992 Carrera GTS and auction it off for charity. Sold this weekend during RM Sotheby’s Monterey Car Week auction, the Sally Special brought out dozens of bidders to sell at a new record for any new Porsche, 3.6 million dollars.
“I’d like to express my gratitude and profound congratulations to the winning bidder,” said Kjell Gruner, PCNA’s President and CEO. “This generous act has made a difference for two important charities and to the lives of those they’ll help. In return, I hope the bidder is very happy to have secured a special and unique piece of our and Pixar’s history.”
“What a night and what a result! It’s fantastic to see a car inspired by my character in Cars do so much good,” said Bonnie Hunt, who was on stage for the live bidding. “I’ve loved playing the role of Sally for the past 16 years, she has a special place in my heart, and it’s wonderful that her personality and values continue to inspire new generations today. The car looked amazing, and I know the team put their heart and souls into creating it. I am thrilled for the new owner who has something very special, and completely unique.”
“I know I speak for the whole Pixar team when I say how proud we are of not only the auction result but that the 911 Sally Special also raised awareness of the work of two incredible charities – Girls Inc. and USA for UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency,” said Jay Ward, Creative Director of Franchise of Pixar Animation Studios. “The reaction has been nothing short of amazing. A really special moment. The money raised will go directly to them, providing life-changing educational programs to young girls in the U.S. and relief for Ukrainian refugees affected by the war.”
Hand crafted by the geniuses in Porsche’s Sunderwunsch program, the Sally Special is based on the 472-horsepower 911 GTS. Because Sally canonically loved to drive, the car here is thankfully a three-pedal manual-shift example. Sally was one of those characters with a free spirit, but a sophisticated past, so the car is truly a blend of fun and refined to match.
This car has so many unique features that it took the team over 10 months to finish. The color is a special one, dubbed Sally Blue Metallic, and extends all the way to Sally’s signature spoiler ‘tattoo’ pinstriping. The 996-era twist wheels have been upsized and updated for 992 spec, featuring 20 and 21 inch sizes and a more modern hard-edged design. The interior is completely bespoke, featuring several Sally Blue accents, unique fabrics, and special stitching. The car features many nods to the Cars franchise, including the mode switch knob on the steering wheel, which now reads “Kachow Mode”.
Ultimately 3.6 million dollars is a TON of money for a 911 GTS with some special paint and wheels, but it’s just a little bit of money when you consider all the good it will do in the world. This is an excellent way for Porsche to positively impact the world by building a special car. It’s a win-win for everyone involved, and for that reason, we love it.