Porsche 911 996

The Porsche 996, introduced in 1997, marked a significant milestone in the evolution of the iconic 911 series. With its sleek design and water-cooled engine, the 996 represented a departure from the air-cooled tradition, eliciting both praise and debate among enthusiasts.

The engine lineup featured a range of flat-six powerplants. The entry-level Carrera housed a 3.4-litre engine, producing around 300 horsepower, while the Carrera 4 introduced an all-wheel-drive variant. The more potent Carrera S boasted a larger 3.6-litre engine, delivering approximately 320 horsepower, providing exhilarating performance on the road.

Transmission options included a precise 6-speed manual gearbox, allowing drivers to fully engage with the driving experience. An optional 5-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission appealed to those seeking a more relaxed driving style, particularly in urban environments.

The 996 lineup expanded with the introduction of the Turbo model, featuring a twin-turbocharged 3.6-litre engine producing around 420 horsepower, propelling the car to impressive speeds. The GT3, a track-focused variant, catered to purists with a manual gearbox and a naturally aspirated 3.6-litre engine generating over 360 horsepower.

Despite its initial controversy, the Porsche 996 has become a sought-after classic, appreciated for its unique position in the 911’s history, diverse engine options, and the blend of performance and comfort.