1996 Porsche 911 – The Evolution of the 993

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Overview

The 1996 Porsche 911 continued the refinement of the 993 generation, with improvements to performance, reliability, and model availability. This year saw the continuation of the high-performance GT2 and Turbo, which solidified the 993’s status as one of the most revered air-cooled 911 generations.

Available Models

For 1996, Porsche offered the following 911 variants:

• 911 Carrera: The standard rear-wheel-drive model.
• 911 Carrera 4: The all-wheel-drive version of the Carrera.
• 911 Turbo: Porsche’s twin-turbocharged all-wheel-drive high-performance model.
• 911 GT2: The hardcore, rear-wheel-drive version of the Turbo, designed for homologation.

Performance & Enhancements

The 1996 model year introduced minor refinements in suspension tuning and engine management to enhance overall reliability. The Turbo and GT2 remained the highest-performance models, offering incredible speed and handling for the era.

Engine & Performance

The 1996 Porsche 911 continued with the proven air-cooled 3.6L flat-six engine lineup, delivering exceptional performance.

• Engine: 3.6L Flat-6 (Carrera models), 3.6L Twin-Turbo Flat-6 (Turbo, GT2)
• Horsepower: 282 HP (Carrera), 408 HP (Turbo), 430 HP (GT2, later increased to 450 HP)
• Fuel System: Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection
• Transmission: 6-speed manual
• Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive (Carrera, GT2), All-Wheel Drive (Carrera 4, Turbo)
• 0-60 mph: ~5.2 seconds (Carrera), ~4.0 seconds (Turbo), ~3.9 seconds (GT2)
• Top Speed: 168 mph (Carrera), 180 mph (Turbo), 187 mph (GT2)

Design & Features

The 1996 Porsche 911 retained the elegant and muscular design of the 993 generation while introducing small refinements.

• Body Style: Coupe, Cabriolet
• Seating Capacity: 4 (Carrera, Turbo), 2 (GT2)
• Weight: ~3,064 lbs (Carrera), ~3,197 lbs (Turbo), ~2,866 lbs (GT2)
• Chassis Code: 993
• Wheelbase: 89.5 inches
• Notable Features: Continued refinement of Turbo and GT2, improved reliability

Production & Market Value

The 1996 Porsche 911 remains highly desirable, with Turbo and GT2 models commanding premium prices in today’s collector market.

FAQs

What makes the 1996 Porsche 911 special?

The 1996 model year continued the excellence of the 993 generation, offering improved reliability and the availability of high-performance models like the GT2 and Turbo.

How rare is the 993 GT2?

The 993 GT2 is one of the most collectible air-cooled 911s, with limited production and a racing pedigree.

Is the 1996 Porsche 911 a good investment?

Yes, particularly Turbo and GT2 models, which continue to appreciate due to their performance and rarity.