The Porsche 911 is one of, if not, the best sports car money can buy and with values skyrocketing, the 996 generation with its unique headlight styling and compact size presents an accessible way in to 911 ownership.
This particular model, a Carrera convertible is an excellent example of that; an entry-level configuration with a simple spec all while preserving the joys of a rear-engine, open top sports car.
It’s a warm summer’s day and there’s not much to do, the best way to entertain yourself is by jumping behind the wheel of your Porsche 911.
Fold the roof down, turn the key and hear the flat-six engine come to life.
All while this is happening, you’re melting into the sumptuous black leather seats with the Porsche crest in pride of place in the middle of the steering wheel.
Behind the ergonomically designed wheel is an instrument cluster that screams sportscar, and not only that, but it also screams Porsche.
Electric adjustability and heating are both features of the seats while the steering wheel unveils this car’s party trick; its Tiptronic gearbox. An ancestor to the flappy paddles of today, this variant use simple buttons on the wheel and a normal automatic gear selector.
Another addition to the list of gadgets inside this beautiful example of a 911 is the optional multi-disc changer and stereo system.
The buttons may look a touch worn and the rear panels on the seats show a few scuff marks, but in general, this is a very well-kept interior for a car that is halfway to being considered a classic.996-0450.jpg10.6 MB
The Exterior
Simple yet stylish black paint
Love it or loathe it 996 styling
A few blemishes but in overall good condition
The 996 generation of Porsche 911 has never been the most widely adored iteration of the rear-engine sports car. But it has to be appreciated that that’s why it is considered a relatively cost-effective first 911.
In convertible form, and painted in this gorgeous Black pearl metallic paint, this particular car is a handsome example. In fact, the car seems to truly shine with the roof down.
The owner has pointed out there are a few scuff marks; one on the passenger side wing mirror, the other on the rear boot lid. However, these are rather minor imperfections.
That being said, we do spot some signs of damage to the wheels, notably the on the rear axle. 996-0376.jpg14.34 MB
The Mechanics
Automatic Tiptronic transmission in working order
3.4-litre flat-six ‘sounds fantastic’
Look under the bonnet of this Porsche 911 996 Carrera and you won’t spot much of interest. But go to the back of the car and you’ll be greeted by the joyous sight of a six-cylinder boxer engine packaged neatly behind the rear axle.
Pushing out 296hp, the 3.4-litre powerplant is connected to a Tiptronic automatic gearbox which in turn powers the rear wheels. This transmission may be an ancestor to the modern flappy paddle gearbox used by Porsche but is surely no less useable.
According to the owner, the drivetrain is all in working order with no apparent issues.
Certainly, judging by the condition of the rest of the car, this doesn’t surprise us. 996-0486.jpg11.31 MB
Summary
Once again, this 996 Porsche 911 Carrera convertible has to be one of the best first 911s for any Porsche enthusiast.
It presents well, drives as it should and provides the ultimate thrill of driving a rear-engine sports car.
The excellent condition of the model is down to the love and care that’s gone into it. The current owner mentions how much they have loved owning it and how sad they’ll be when it goes but wants to make sure it goes to “a home that can appreciate her and drive her.”
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