When the 996 was launched, it was greeted with almost universal praise and heralded by most people who knew what they were talking about as the best sorted and most usable 911 that had ever carried the badge. Richard Hammond was effusive about the 996, describing it as 'visceral and exciting'. Tiff Needell said it was 'better in almost every way' than the 993, offering a driving experience that was 'second to none'.

The 996 introduced the PSM electronic stability control system, which helped four-wheel drive models harness their power and lay it down with more control than in any previous 911. As with earlier iterations, power outputs in the desirable and pricey Turbo or Turbo S versions were significantly higher – north of 400bhp in the later 3.6-litre cars and gearbox options were of the manual 6-speed or 5-speed Tiptronic variety.

In 2002, Porsche introduced the Turbo X50 option, which included larger turbochargers and intercoolers along with revised engine control software and a reinforced gearbox. The X50 increased power to 450bhp, offering an impressive 0-62mph in just 3.9 seconds. Where other 996s suffered both physically and reputationally from a somewhat over-hyped propensity to eat their own engines in a catastrophic and terminal fashion, the Turbo, GT2 and GT3 variants all came with the legendary - and trouble-free - ‘Mezger’ engine derived from various 1970s racers and the later 911 GT1.

The car offered here is a C16, UK-market 2002 Porsche 911 (996) Turbo X50, with the ‘one-to-have’ manual gearbox, fastidiously maintained and highly specified with a host of desirable options. The car was first delivered on 16th October 2002 by its supplying dealer Lindbrook Porsche Centre, finished in the classic colour combination of Basalt Black Metallic with black leather trim, a discerning but appealing combination. Upgrades included a 997 short-shift kit, 9E38 upgrade that came with GT2 RS intercoolers, uprated DV, 1 Bar actuators and 5 bar FPR at a cost of £7,600 fitted in May 2015 at 66,159 miles. Further maintenance in 2016 included an uprated Sachs 890 clutch, new radiator, condenser, and brakes.

Presented to auction with an odometer reading of 72,000 miles, supported by service stamps and invoices, a set of near-new Michelin Pilot Sports tyres and an MOT valid until August 2023, this dramatic Porsche is 'on the button' and ready to go.

The Cherished Registration Number, P11 XSO, will remain with the car.