1997 Porsche 993

This car’s original owner hit the options box pretty hard, with the result that the 911 comes with the following spec.

• 3.6-litre engine.
• Tiptronic transmission.
• Limited slip differential. 
• Heated seats. 
• High capacity battery. 
• Headlight washers.
• 17 inch Targa alloy wheels.
• Rear wiper.
• Leather steering wheel.
• Cruise control.
• 75-litre fuel tank.
• Twin air bags.
• Front fog lights.
• Electric windows.
• Power steering.
• Leather seats and trim.

Obviously being a 1997 car this is a Porsche built in the last two years of production of the original air-cooled 911s, so in many ways represents the last of the breed.

The Artic Silver paintwork on this 911 is in generally great shape, although the very tip of the front bumper has a scratched area which could do with some TLC to bring it up to the standard of the rest of the bodywork. The rear bumper also has the odd mark, but considering the age of the car they’re minimal really.

Aside from the extremities at either end though, the bodywork is in excellent order for a car of this age and mileage.

The split rim Porsche alloy wheels are starting to show their age, and a refurb of them would further elevate the car’s already excellent presentation.

Original is the word that immediately springs to mind peering into the stylish but functional cabin of this 993. From the cassette tape storage slots to the dealer fitted car phone, it’s all just as it was back in the late 1990s. It's in superb condition too.

Even the driver’s seat shows only the merest hint of any use, and the factory fitted Becker CD Radio still sits in the dash, looking so much better than any modern unit would.

There’s a small chip on the plastic trim surround of the passenger door aperture, and a small blemish on the floor mat on the opposite side, but that’s really the only wear and tear we spotted. Oh, and we couldn’t get the electric mirrors to work.

The door cards and steering wheel are all in fine shape, and overall the cabin is a highly original and excellent example of what Porsche sports cars were like before the bling build up of later years.

You see? That’s what should greet you when you open the engine cover of a 911 – a large air cooling fan. Call me old fashioned (you wouldn’t believe how young I am) but Porsche 911s should be air cooled. It’s part of their character, part of what makes them different, and special. 

After all, sticking the engine out the back behind the rear axle is a daft idea really, so you might as well go the whole hog and vive la difference.

This car had a documented clock change at 19,000km from kilometres to miles in 1998 and has covered a paltry 43000 miles since, so is still in rude health. This is pretty much the peak of air-cooled 911 engine design too, so it doesn’t get any better. And of course, when you fire it up it produces that wonderful air-cooled cacophony that only a pre-1999 911 can.

The engine bay is very clean, tidy and original, just like the rest of the car. And up front, the original alloy space saver spare looks unused. 

Certificates from Porsche included with this 911 state it was built for the German home market in September 1997, to 1998 model year specifications. 

It was originally supplied by Edgar Kittner Sportwagen Zentrum GmbH in Lubeck, Germany. 

The car comes with its original Porsche handbooks and a detailed service history folder. In addition there is a collection of invoices for maintenance work carried out – most recently in October 2023 for the fitting of a new fuel pump, battery, alternator, bearing, pulley half, fan and ducting. Also repairs to the screen surround – £4412.

There is also a selection of historic MoT certificates, and in addition the car has an MoT certificate (no advisories) that runs until October next year. The tax disc holder on the windscreen appears to contain a lot of old discs.

The current owner bought the car in 1998 when he moved to London from New York, and was still single. Being an American he preferred the left hand-drive spec and thought the Targa roof and Tiptronic transmission made it the dream car for London living. He says:

‘The Porsche made it across Europe to the Monte Carlo Grand Prix on a pleasure drive, and it also did endless English countryside excursions.

‘It has been looked after only by AFN Chiswick, with regular servicing, and most recently by Tower Porsche. Its condition is excellent, with low miles and it has always been garaged.

‘It’s an original car with no changes except to a UK spec speedometer unit with miles as opposed to kilometres. It has no faults, everything works perfectly.

‘I am now married with two kids, and I have an electric car and can never use the 911 regularly. It attracts ULEZ and congestion charges daily in London, which makes it very expensive to drive to work in.  

‘My wife has always been petrified to drive it, and the kids are next generation electric car users. I’m sad to part with it but I’m no longer a single bachelor – I wish I could keep it but it’s run its course. Someone who has the ability to own it and love it would suit it well.’

Built to the 911’s last air-cooled specification, and having covered a very low mileage, this Porsche is one for the serious enthusiast. With a little fettling it could be really special. As it is, it’s a testament to the original build quality, and the unique design of an iconic car. We estimate that it will sell for £40,000-£45,000.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located at the Bonhams|Cars Online HQ. Viewings are strictly by appointment. To make a booking, please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, and read our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.