Up until recently, the 996 was very much the underappreciated 911 – but that’s now changed with a groundswell of an enthusiast following for the model. The first water-cooled version of the iconic Porsche sports car shared a lot in common with the Boxster, including its distinctive ‘fried egg’ headlamps with integrated indicators and much of its front suspension.
And while some 911 purists sniff at that, other fans of the marque recognise it for what it was at the time – Porsche finally bringing the 911 up-to-date, while maintaining a number of key elements of its essential DNA, namely the iconic body profile, the horizontally-opposed six-cylinder engine in its rump and the upmarket but accessible supercar image that the 911 had portrayed so well since its inception.
It was also a fabulous car to drive, arguably the finest handling car of the 1990s providing you didn’t over-provoke it. That’s plenty enough for most, and it’s now coming into its own as a modern classic.
This is a narrow-bodied rear-wheel-drive Carrera S Tiptronic Convertible, finished in striking Rainforest Green and equipped with a factory hardtop. It’s a lovely car, presented in excellent overall condition.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
UK V5C
MOT March 2024
All original books and handbooks
Some old MOT certificates
File of history and paperwork documenting a lifetime of care
Maintained by independent specialists throughout its life
Two sets of keys
THE INTERIOR
Excellent condition
Smart Savannah Beige leather with Rainforest Green piping
Heated, electrically adjustable seats
Superb door cards and carpets
Factory option two-tone Savannah and Black leather sports steering wheel
Cruise control
Climate control – works perfectly
Porsche stereo
All dials and controls work as they should
Very well-presented with only minor signs of wear
Nokia hands-free kit
Genuine Porsche accessory windbreak in original packaging - unused
THE EXTERIOR
Ultra-rare Rainforest Green
Original paint in good order, with a couple of very minor marks but nothing of any real note
Appears to be superb underneath with no signs of corrosion
Electric black fabric soft top
Rare and sought-after body-coloured factory hardtop in good condition, with zip-up storage bag and stand
Savannah headlining in great condition
THE MECHANICS
3.4-litre flat-six
Normally aspirated
Tiptronic semi-auto transmission with steering wheel controls
Rear-wheel-drive
No leaking around the main seal/IMS
Low temperature thermostat conversion
Design 911 full stainless exhaust system
Recent oil, fluids and filter service and major service prior to that, less than 5,000 miles ago
Vendor reports that the car is great to drive with no known or apparent faults
SUMMARY
If you want a 911 with classic looks and accessible ownership and running costs, then the 996 is the one to go for. They’re the most attainable way into the iconic Porsche series, yet they won’t be forever – look what’s happened to 993 values of late for proof.
This is a well-maintained and smart example with the sought-after Convertible body style and in an amazing colour scheme. It’s a superb choice of modern classic that’s well up to daily use and with sensible running costs.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
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