In most countries, the best-selling cars are usually affordable and practical models like the Toyota Corolla or the Volkswagen Golf.
But in 2024, a small state nestled between Spain and France completely upended this logic. In Andorra, the Porsche 911 became the best-selling car, ahead of much more accessible models. A paradox? Not really, when you consider the tax and economic specifics of this territory where luxury is almost the norm.
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A market dominated by prestige
Andorra, with its 81,000 inhabitants and favorable tax system, is an ideal playground for sports car enthusiasts. In 2024, 83 Porsche 911s were registered in the principality—a striking number when you know that only 2,379 new vehicles were sold in the country overall. In other words, one out of every 29 new cars was a 911. Why such enthusiasm for this model? Part of the answer lies in the Andorran tax regime, which applies much lower taxes than its French and Spanish neighbors. This makes luxury cars much more accessible. For example, a Porsche 911 is sold there starting at $140,400, a price far more competitive than elsewhere in Europe. But beyond the financial aspect, Andorra’s winding mountain roads are also the perfect playground for a car as balanced and high-performing as the 911. With its rear-mid engine and exemplary handling, it finds ideal conditions to shine.
The Porsche 911: A symbol of status
While the Toyota GR Yaris ranks second in sales (47 units sold), Porsche’s domination doesn’t stop there. Other models from the brand, such as the Cayenne and the Macan, are also among Andorra’s best-sellers. Owning a Porsche, especially a 911, has become a status symbol in this principality where the standard of living is high. Unlike large European cities, where compact cars and mainstream SUVs dominate, Andorra clearly favors premium and sports cars. And when you consider the countless variants of the model—Targa, Carrera, Turbo, GT3…—the number of 911s can quickly add up!
A paradise for enthusiasts of fine machinery
Andorra is often associated with winter sports and duty-free shopping, but it could very well become a new sanctuary for luxury car enthusiasts. With its tax advantages, roads perfectly suited for sports cars, and a wealthy local clientele, all the elements are in place to make this small principality a haven for fans of fine machinery. It is not uncommon to see French or Spanish buyers come to Andorra to purchase vehicles before bringing them back to their home countries. Some also take advantage of the favorable tax rates on parts and labor to carry out maintenance and repairs at a lower cost. With such a marked trend, Andorra could well continue to be a unique case in Europe in terms of car sales. So if you ever visit, don’t be surprised to see more Porsche 911s than compact cars.
This article explores the reasons why the Porsche 911 became the best-selling car in Andorra in 2024, the tax advantages that attract buyers, and the impact of this trend on the local automotive market.
Images: © Porsche
