1993 Porsche 968 Cabriolet

As successful last hurrahs go, the 968 was a rousing cheer to Porsche’s 4-cylinder, front engine, rear-drive platform. Broadening the model line up to include a lightweight entry level Clubsport to the existing Coupé and flagship Cabriolet, the 968 became the affordable gateway to Porsche ownership.

Launched in August 1991 for the Model Year 1992, it was largely based on the 944 chassis and mechanicals, with revised Porsche “liquid” design language that heralded a new era for the Porsche family that would go on to include the 993 Type 911 and the 928 GTS.

Porsche also revised the mechanicals of the 3.0-litre powerplant with larger pistons and con-rods as well as the addition of VarioCam variable valve timing – the first Porsche model to offer this technology. The result of these very minor but effective changes saw the 968 as the most powerful, normally aspirated 4-cylinder engine in the world. All of this freed up 240hp from its big four, driving through a six-speed manual or the new Tiptronic Transmission, seeing a 7 second sprint to 100 km/h and a top speed of 250km/h.

While the Coupé was essentially a carry-over from the 944 S2, the style-meister Harm Lagaay took his pen to the Cabriolet, adjusting the dimensions ever so slightly, integrating the new family appearance at the front while retaining the flat future forward look of the rear.

With production numbers limited, Australia saw 68 Coupés, 29 Clubsport and just 13 Cabriolets before production ceased in 1995, making them one of the smallest production models and an extremely sought-after classic Porsche today.

This 968 Cabriolet was delivered new Austral Porsche in November 1993. Finished in Midnight Blue Metallic with Classic Grey and optioned with Tiptronic Transmission, Sound Package System and the newly designed Cup Alloys. With just two owners, the service book reflects its Porsche Centre only maintenance carried out each year, every year without exception.

The front-engine, rear transmission makes for amazing handling. The Tipronic is smooth and responsive, with dynamic downshifting maximizing the torque range.

As far as rare Porsche models go, this would have to be the best 968 Cabriolet we have seen. The performance combined with open-top motoring is like nothing else. With Porsche having just celebrated Forty Fast Years of front engine Models – the 968 will ensure you entry to the classic arena without compromising on the comforts. Fully serviced and ready to go, no better way to enjoy the sunny months ahead.