Relentlessly refined for over half a century, the 993-generation Porsche 911 is considered among enthusiasts to be the pinnacle of the 911’s rear-engined, air-cooled formula. Its combination of timeless styling, balanced handling, and magnificent performance means it is coveted not only as one of the finest 911s ever produced but also as one of Porsche’s landmark creations.
Replacing the outgoing 964-generation 911, the new 911’s exterior was completely restyled with wide, muscular haunches and lower front fenders while retaining the purity of the 911’s recognizable form. Underneath, it gained hydraulic self-adjusting valve clearance and a completely new exhaust. As for power, all variants were equipped with the latest 3.6-liter version of Porsche’s venerable air-cooled flat-six producing more horsepower over a wider rev range thanks to new “’Variocam” variable valve timing. The Type 993 was available in rear-wheel drive Carrera, Carrera S or all-wheel drive Carrera 4, and Carrera 4S trims, as well as Turbo and Turbo S to satisfy every customer’s performance needs.
Offered for just two years (1997-1998), the 993-generation Carrera S features the wide-body taken from the Carrera 4S which in turn was borrowed from the 911 Turbo. The Carrera S was rear-wheel drive only, and significantly more satisfying in terms of driving purity, especially when specified with a six-speed manual transmission. Additional Carrera S details of note are a special engine grill evoking memories of a 356 twin-grill Roadster and special gauges with Carrera S lettering on the tachometer.
This fine 911 Carrera S presents today in its original factory finishes of Ocean Blue Metallic paintwork over Classic Grey partial leather upholstery. In addition to its six-speed manual transmission, this well-specified example was generously optioned with an eight-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat, cruise control, and an electric sliding sunroof. The accompanying CARFAX vehicle history report indicates that the 911 was purchased new by its original owner in Highland Park, Illinois showing 19 miles. The car remained with its original owner for the next 14 years, receiving regular maintenance at Porsche Exchange of Highland Park, before passing to only its second owner in October 2011 showing 37,829 miles. Over the next decade, the Porsche was relocated to the East Coast where it was enjoyed and maintained by several owners prior to its acquisition by the consignor in 2022.
The car comes complete with its original Becker stereo head unit, tool kit, owner’s manuals, window sticker, and service records, showing just over 45,500 original miles at the time of cataloging. This well-preserved, six-speed manual Carrera S offers an opportunity to own and experience a rare example of what many Porsche enthusiasts consider to be one of the best-looking and most rewarding 911s to drive.