2004 Porsche 911 – The Final Evolution of the 996

← 2003 Porsche 911 | 996 Porsche 911 Overview

Overview

The 2004 Porsche 911 marked the final production year for the 996 generation before transitioning to the 997. Porsche refined the model lineup with minor design updates, enhanced performance, and the continued availability of high-performance models such as the Turbo S and GT3 RS.

Available Models

For 2004, Porsche offered the following 911 variants:

• 911 Carrera: The base rear-wheel-drive model with a 3.6L engine.
• 911 Carrera 4: The all-wheel-drive version for enhanced stability.
• 911 Carrera 4S: A widebody Carrera 4 model with Turbo-style bodywork.
• 911 Carrera Cabriolet: The open-top variant of the Carrera.
• 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet: The all-wheel-drive convertible.
• 911 Turbo: A twin-turbocharged, all-wheel-drive high-performance model.
• 911 Turbo S: A more powerful version of the Turbo with 450 HP.
• 911 GT2: A rear-wheel-drive, track-focused turbocharged model.
• 911 GT3: A high-revving, naturally aspirated track model.
• 911 GT3 RS: A lightweight, race-ready homologation variant.
• 911 Targa: A sliding-glass roof model offering an open-air experience.

Development & History

The 996 generation concluded in 2004, paving the way for the launch of the 997 in 2005. Porsche continued refining the lineup with incremental improvements, maintaining the 911’s reputation for exceptional handling and performance. The Turbo S, introduced this year, became one of the most sought-after versions of the 996 due to its increased power output.

Engine & Performance

The 2004 Porsche 911 maintained the 3.6L flat-six engine across its lineup, with enhancements in high-performance models:

• Engine: 3.6L Flat-6 (Carrera models), 3.6L Twin-Turbo Flat-6 (Turbo, Turbo S, GT2), 3.6L Naturally Aspirated Flat-6 (GT3, GT3 RS)
• Horsepower: 320 HP (Carrera models), 415 HP (Turbo), 450 HP (Turbo S), 483 HP (GT2), 381 HP (GT3, GT3 RS)
• Fuel System: Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection
• Transmission: 6-speed manual, 5-speed Tiptronic automatic (Carrera & Turbo models only)
• Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive (Carrera, GT3, GT3 RS, GT2), All-Wheel Drive (Carrera 4, Turbo, Carrera 4S)
• 0-60 mph: ~4.7 seconds (Carrera), ~4.0 seconds (Turbo), ~3.8 seconds (GT2), ~4.0 seconds (GT3 RS)
• Top Speed: 177 mph (Carrera), 189 mph (Turbo), 198 mph (GT2), 190 mph (GT3 RS)

Design & Features

The 2004 Porsche 911 saw minor refinements to interior materials and quality, with the Turbo S standing out due to its exclusive badging and performance-focused enhancements.

• Body Style: Coupe, Cabriolet, Targa
• Seating Capacity: 4 (Carrera, Turbo, Targa), 2 (GT3, GT3 RS, GT2)
• Weight: ~3,042 lbs (Carrera), ~3,400 lbs (Turbo), ~3,020 lbs (GT3), ~2,822 lbs (GT3 RS)
• Chassis Code: 996
• Wheelbase: 92.5 inches
• Notable Features: Final year of 996 production, Turbo S introduction, refined interior materials

Production & Market Value

The 2004 Porsche 911 remains highly collectible as the last model year of the 996 generation. The Turbo S, GT3 RS, and GT2 have seen significant appreciation in value among enthusiasts and collectors.

FAQs

What makes the 2004 Porsche 911 special?

It marked the final production year of the 996 generation and introduced the Turbo S, making it one of the most desirable models.

Is the 2004 Porsche 911 a good investment?

Yes, particularly for Turbo S, GT3 RS, and GT2 models, which are becoming increasingly valuable due to their performance and rarity.