Highlights
- Early 996 Carrera in rare Vesuvio metallic
- Six-speed manual gearbox
- Ageless ‘996’ private registration included
- Well-documented service history
- Equipped with Sports pack which includes a limited-slip gearbox, ‘wing-back’ seats, uprated suspension and stronger clutch
- IMS and RMS bearings replaced in 2017 (89,215 miles)
The Appeal
Here’s an age-old question: If you could only drive one car for the rest of your life, what would it be?
That’s a tough one, but we’d wager most petrolheads would arrive at the same conclusion - a Porsche 911.
Offering everyday usability while refusing to compromise on performance and handling, the 911 has to be the ultimate ‘one size fits all’ sports car. This 1998 Vesuvio metallic 996 is particularly appealing as it’s equipped with a manual gearbox and Porsche’s Sports package. It has been well attended to over the years, boasting twelve service stamps and a substantial collection of invoices. The sometimes troublesome IMS and RMS bearings were replaced in 2017 (89,215 miles), and most recently a new alternator and new coil packs were fitted to ensure many more years of high-performance motoring.
For driving enthusiasts seeking a supremely usable modern classic, this Porsche is eminently worthy of your consideration.
The History and Paperwork
- Advisory-free MOT valid until June 2024
- Last serviced in September
- Two Porsche keys
- Original book pack present
- Substantial collection of invoices
- Twelve stamps in the original service book (main dealer and specialist)
- V5C present
- Seven former keepers
- Collection of old MOT certificates
- Ageless ‘996’ private registration included
The Interior
- 2+2 seating arrangement, perfect for families
- ‘Wing-back’ sports seats upholstered in leather
- Light wear to the seats, but nothing excessive or any damage visible to the bolsters
- Modern Pioneer DAB DIN stereo fitted
- Very light wear to the original controls
- All five dials present clearly and reportedly work without issues
- No signs of UV damage to the dashboard or plastics
- Smart carpeting with Porsche-branded overmats
- No sagging or damage evident to the headlining
- Smart forward boot space
- Original stereo is included in the sale
The Exterior
- Rare and distinctive Vesuvio metallic paintwork
- Factory sunroof
- Recent headlamp refurbishment
- OEM alloys with slight kerbing, but nothing especially noticeable
- Straight bodywork, with no evidence of accident damage
- The vendor points out some stone chips to the front and light scratches elsewhere as befits a car of this age and mileage
- Some paintwork corrections would be beneficial, although the car presents very well as is
- We’re informed that all tyres have ample tread remaining
- The underside presents nicely overall, with some surface corrosion to the nearside front jacking point
The Mechanics
- 3,387 cc flat-six
- Six-speed manual gearbox
- Limited-slip differential (sport pack)
- Uprated springs clutch (sport pack)
- All looks to be in good order under the engine hatch
- Last serviced in conjunction with its last MOT (June 2023)
- The vendor reports that it drives very well indeed, with no apparent issues
- IMS and RMS changed in 2017 (89,215 miles)
- Recent new alternator and coil packs
Summary
This very handsome 996 ticks all the right boxes. Well preserved, and equipped with all the options you’d want as a driver from factory, it would be the perfect weekend warrior, or else would handle daily duties with aplomb. Be sure not to miss this fabulous opportunity to add a modern classic 911 to your driveway.
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
