1996 Porsche 993 Carrera Targa

Vehicle Overview

This 1996 Porsche 993 Carrera Targa is in Black with Classic Grey.

Model Background

Introduced in 1993 for the 911’s 30th anniversary, the 993 would be the very last of the air-cooled Porsches before the company moved on to the water-cooled generation. By the mid-1990s, the front-engined cars were all gone and there was a brief time – the 1996 model year – that the Boxster hadn’t arrived yet and the 993 was the only model in Porsche’s lineup.

In terms of styling, it was an all-new look while still unmistakably 911. The 993 had wide, muscular bulges in all the right places, and the lower front fenders that the drivers couldn’t see them from the cockpit. The body had a drag coefficient of 0.33, and while this was technically less aerodynamic than the 964, it also reduced lift at speed.

Power was sourced from a water-cooled flat-six, which was an improvement from the 964’s set up. Porsche redesigned the bottom end, added hydraulic self-adjusting valve clearance and completely redesigned the exhaust.

The 993 is collectible for a lot of reasons. It’s not just that it’s the last air-cooled car, but the blend of classic 911 looks, heritage and sound with modern technology and conveniences. Many consider it to be the best looking of all 911s as well, and it’s certainly one of the most rewarding cars to drive, even if some of the newer 911s are quicker.

Our Subject Car

With only three owners, this 993 was sold new out of Houston, Texas from Momentum Porsche on April 1st, 1996. The Service & Maintenance book shows dealer yearly scheduled work performed at 15,595 miles, 25,083, 43,668, 64,943 and 76,227 miles with Momentum, Mckenna Porsche and Autoweks International. 

Factory Optional Equipment listed on the Porsche COA Include:

·        Motor Sound Package - 159

·        Radio - 329

·        Left Sport Seat w/ Power Height Adjuster - 373

·        Right Sport Seat w/ Power Height Adjuster - 374

·        Automatic Speed Control - 454

Other Factory Features include:

·         3.6 liter 6-cylinder, 282 HP engine

·         DME engine management system

·         Self-adjusting valve lifters

·         Induction system

·         Dual exhaust system

·         Vented disc brakes with ABS-5

·         Tow correcting rear suspension stabilizer bars

·         Front and rear 5-spoke Speedline rims

·         205/50 ZR17 front 255/40 ZR17 rear tires

·         Integrated bumper with fog lights

·         Extendable rear spoiler

·         Solid glass power sunroof

·         Power steering

·         Filtered A/C and heating w/ climate control

·         Remote central locking alarm system

·         Classic Grey power & adjustable Racing-Style sport seats

·         AM/FM cassette stereo w/ 6 -speakers

·         Auto speed control

·         Power side mirrors and windows

·         Heated side mirrors and windshield

·         2+2 seating

·         Headlight washer

·         Full analog gauges w/ warning lights

·         26-step paint process

·         Motor sound package

Original Suggested Retail Price  $71,812.00

Mechanical

The car has been professional serviced and cared for since new. A large stack of invoices accompanies the car which highlights all of the great work most recently done by Tom Amon of Auto Werks West.

Engine bay is tidy and bright after our in-house detail. Factory drive belts can be seen as well as all original parts. This car runs great.

Exterior

Overall the car is presented to us in great external condition. We have highlighted some of the faults of the paintwork, which includes stone chips and some wear around the key locks. The nose, hood and front fenders have been resprayed but original paint otherwise.

A Turbo front bumper is installed and the stock included (but scratched). Car also comes with 993 Cup II wheels with painted center caps.

Interior

Interior is in excellent condition with nearly perfect seats, front and back. The current front seats were optional, with power on both. Driver side does show some small wear on the bolster, but on all accounts are original.

Dash is perfect and free of any imperfections as well as all of the gauges and switches throughout.

Carpet is free of any stains and looks-new. Door cards are also in great condition, aside from the drivers side window switch, which is slightly out of adjustment.

Targa top is in good condition but the Targa Shade is not operating.

The ‘Frunk’ (front trunk) shows very nice trim work along with spare tire, original tire inflator, jack, service gloves and tool kit, which has never been unraveled.

The Drive

Immediately you can see why this car is considered an instant classic. The last iteration of the air-cool Porsche did not disappoint. Power was plenty upon the test drive. The bigger brake upgrade from the 964 was obvious as well when coming off the freeway onto local traffic. The Targa sunroof was also a nice option to work with as the temperature elevated with the elevation of our drive, providing a better view and welcomed airflow.

Overall we are always impressed by the 993, but this particular example was a real delight.

All inspections welcome. We ship worldwide.

Contact us at 831.373.3131 day or evening.