Built from 1994 to 1998, the 993 was Porsche’s last air-cooled 911, marking the end of an era. Considered revolutionary in terms of performance, comfort, and safety, the 993 also represented a significant aesthetic shift at Stuttgart, featuring a modernized design with a lower, more aggressive, stance and more advanced aerodynamics.
Taking performance to new heights, Porsche introduced a third-generation Turbo in 1995. The new model utilized twin-turbocharging technology for the first time, with one smaller-but-faster spooling turbocharger per cylinder bank, and dual intercoolers. A standard six-speed manual transaxle incorporated permanent all-wheel drive with a 40:60 front-to-rear torque split. Widened wheel arches accommodated larger tires for better grip, while a sculpted rear spoiler provided additional downforce.
Developing 408 hp and 398 lbs./ft. of torque, Motor Trend proclaimed that the Turbo was “the most brutally accelerating, best-handling, best-braking Porsche ever” in its June 1995 issue. This praise was backed by impressive performance statistics: the 993 Turbo could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds with a top speed of 180 mph.
Upping the ante, Porsche made available Werksleistungssteigerung (WLS), or “factory performance increase,” packages to bestow the Turbo with additional performance. The first, WLS 1, included revised engine-management programming and an additional front oil cooler, realizing 430 hp. Denoted by an XLC option code, for 1998 only, a subsequent WLS 2 package added larger KKK K24 turbochargers, elevating power output to the 450 hp and 431 lbs./ ft. of torque of the road-going 993 GT2 Evolution.
Finished in Black Metallic (code Z8) paint over a black leather interior, this Porsche 993 Turbo was completed by the factory in March 1998, and delivered shortly thereafter to its first owner through Porsche Zentrum Ingolstadt in Germany. Displaying a clear commitment to bring to life what many would perceive as a standard Turbo, this example was specified with the 450 hp WLS 2 power package but is devoid of any visual “S” cues except for a quad-pipe exhaust system.
Other notable options itemized on this Turbo’s original Porsche invoice include heated hardback sport seats with electric height adjustment, an electric sunroof, an aluminum shifter and hand brake, aluminum-look instrument dials, security system, wheel caps with the Porsche crest, Nokia digital sound processing, and a seldom-seen radio with built-in navigation system, one of the most expensive options the factory offered at the time.
One of just 266 left-hand-drive Turbos believed to be built with the rare XLC/WLS 2 package, this car displayed under 24,000 km (15,000 miles) at the time of cataloguing and presents in exceptional, original condition throughout. Evidently cared for and cherished throughout its life, this Turbo is accompanied by books, tools, original delivery accessories, Porsche Production Specifications Certificate, extensive records dating back to new, and even a photograph of its long-term original owner on the day he accepted delivery.
A distinct rarity in terms of specification, mileage, provenance, and condition, this 993 Turbo XLC, one of only a few residing in the US, is a remarkable discovery for the astute Porsche collector.
*Please note that this vehicle will not be sold for use or resale in California or to a non-dealer California resident.
