1992 Porsche 968

The example we have here was a former 1992 Porsche Motor Show car and demonstrator. First registered in the UK by AFN Porsche cars GB on 01.08.1992, means that this is one of the earliest 968 models around. The car remained at the dealership for 2 years as it was being used by management and as an ambassador for the then new model. It also appeared on the stand at the London Motor Show that year and was rather a well-known example in Porsche circles at the time.

This 968 has had seven former keepers and has ticked up 152,350 miles on the odometer. The service record makes extremely good reading (more detail to follow), as it has been maintained by OPC and other quality independents. It has never missed a service schedule. As such the engine appears to be free from any stress and despite the modest mileage, it remains rather box fresh to drive.

The Porsche Certificate of Conformity states the following:

• The chassis number: WPOZZZ96ZNS802504
• Engine: 42N04201,
• Colour: Cobalt Blue Metallic
• Cabin : Classic Grey/Blue Piped
• Reg: K552 GEW
• Factory options include:
• 288 headlight washers
• 383 Sport seat - left
• 387 Sport seat - right
• 418 Protective side mouldings
• 567 Windshield green graduated tint
• 595 Rear spoiler painted to match body
• 650 Sunroof

This metallic Cobalt Blue 968 is a two-door coupe that has a low and aerodynamic profile. Its body shape is characterised by smooth, flowing lines and a balanced design. The front end is defined by its rounded headlights, which are integrated into the streamlined front fenders. The headlights are equipped with a pop-up mechanism, giving the car an uninterrupted look when not in use. The front bumper features integrated fog lights and the narrow grille is positioned below the front bumper. The long bonnet adds to its sporty and aggressive character. The side profile has a well-proportioned silhouette thanks to the gentle slope from the roofline towards the rear. At the rear sits an integrated spoiler that seamlessly blends into the car's body. The elongated taillights and are positioned on the outer edges of the rear fascia. The bodywork, sills, shut lines and wheels look tidy throughout, there is just the odd stone chip on the nose and front bumper.

The interior features seats upholstered in grey leather with blue piping, blending comfort with sportiness to deliver a driver-focused cabin. The sporty, high-backed, electrically-operated seats in the front are designed to provide excellent support and comfort for spirited driving. The driver’s seat has character thanks to a light patina on the outer buttress, though there is a scuff on the outside. Positioned behind the steering wheel, the instrument cluster features easy-to-read analogue gauges for speed, RPM, fuel level, engine temperature. The sporty, three-spoked steering wheel is wrapped in leather and the centre console houses the Sony sound system/CD player. It comes with a sporty gear knob (also wrapped in leather) and a spare wheel is housed under the boot floor. The headlining, door cards, grey plush carpet and rear seats look tidy throughout.

Underneath is exceptionally tidy – the engine and engine bay appear to be spotless and everything looks to be dry and in its right and proper place. The 968 is powered by a water-cooled, inline-four engine. It features four cylinders, offering a balance between power and efficiency, with a displacement of 3.0 litres (2,990 cc). The engine utilises a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) configuration. This valvetrain setup allows for precise control of the intake and exhaust valves, enhancing the engine's efficiency and performance. For fuel delivery, the engine employs a fuel injection system for precise fuel metering and optimal combustion. Thanks to a balance shaft, vibrations are dampened, which enhances the refinement and comfort of the ride. The engine produces a distinctive sound, characterised by a combination of the mechanical symphony of the four-cylinder configuration and the sporty exhaust note.

This 968 comes with 27+ Service Stamps, six Brake Fluid Changes, five Cambelt changes (2 since 2016), in a complete service book that has run out of space. Since then, a continuous record of invoices has been kept. Please have a look at the document gallery which displays the very well-ordered and fastidious file. The Service Stamps in the book date from December 1992 until February 2016, and since running out of space there is a large amount of paperwork which highlights the more recent work carried out. It appears that Servicing, Cambelt Changes and Brake Fluid Changes have been carried out consistently, with the most recent Cambelt Change in October 2021.

The most recent expenditure includes the following:

• 18.08.17: Replaced cam belt, balance shaft belt, water pump, all front engine seals, tensioners, top hat seal and oil pump drive at Precision Porsche Specialists
• 27.06.18 Annual service, repairs to Exhaust silencer and work carried out to fuel pipe at Precision Porsche Specialists
• 07.11.18 Order of power steering hydraulic pump
• 26.07.19 New Sealing Washers, Parking Brake Adjustment and MOT at Porsche Centre Reading
• 30.09.20 Front discs and pads at Northway Porsche
• 21.07.21 Annual Service, New PAS Cooler and Hoses fitted at Northway Porsche
• 16.09.21 Repairs to Power Steering, Cooling Fan and Instrumentation at Jacksons Reading
• 18.10.21 Cambelt Replacement, Replacement of Cam Chain Guides, Tightening of Spoiler and Oil Change at PIE Performance
• 07.01.22 Repairs to Exhaust Manifold and Heatshields at PIE Performance
• 27.06.23 New Clutch Master and Slave Cylinders Fitted at Maundrells Porsche

In relative terms, even by Porsche standards, very few 968s were built. While that underlined at the time the failure of the model in the marketplace, today, as a classic Porsche it means the 968 has both rarity and notable build quality. It is arguably the best built Porsche of them all. Thanks to its 3 litre engine and a full list of other overall improvements, not only is the 968 as quick as a sports car, but it is flexible enough to be an easy everyday driver. Beyond that, it’s also pretty economical, too, as you can expect around 30mpg in mixed cycle use. This makes the 968 an excellent, all-round sports car that rightly has taken its place among the best of classic Porsches.

We think an example as good as this one is good value as it we expect it to achieve somewhere between £15,000 and £20,000.

Viewing is always encouraged, and this car can be seen here at The Market HQ in Abingdon; to arrange an appointment 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, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.