This Porsche 911 is Optimus Prime’s ally in the new Transformers movie

Optimus Prime is battling to save the earth in the summer blockbuster Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, but this time he’s enlisted the help of… a Porsche 911.

Except as it’s set in 1994, a time-appropriate 911 was required, so step forth a Carrera RS 3.8. Of which only 55 were ever built.

Don’t worry though, the filmmakers haven’t exposed an original car to any Michael Bay-style explosions. For one, Michael Bay hasn’t directed this one, and for another, five ‘picture cars’ were developed to look exactly like the 964-gen model.

All were specially adapted for different sequences in the movie: one was modded to reverse at high speeds, while another was developed specifically for stunt sequences. However, an original car was used to provide the engine sound for the film, a level of detail that at least half a dozen car nerds across the globe will appreciate when it hits cinemas.

“It was important to us to represent the sound of the 911 model depicted in the film,” said Ayesha Coker, Vice President of Marketing of Porsche Cars North America. “It was extremely ambitious due to the number of cars needed from a limited production 911, but we are thrilled with the result and hope audiences are too.”

The 911, er, plays an Autobot named Mirage, part of a new faction of Transformers called the Maximals, according to the official bumf. “The 911 Carrera RS 3.8 is perfect not just because the film plays in 1994, but also because of the character traits of ‘Mirage,’” said Oliver Hoffmann, head of marketing communications at Porsche. “He’s a tough character with a good heart and a bit of a rebellious streak now and again.”

The movie premieres in the UK on Friday. Is an historic 911 gonna tempt you out to a *checks notes* ‘‘90s globetrotting adventure’?