Porsche 911 Tiptronic

ENGINE 3600cc/flat-6/OHC POWER 268bhp@6100rpm TORQUE 243lb ft@5000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 165mph 0-60MPH 6.6sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 18-35mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed automatic MoT December 2018 ODOMETER 92,961 miles

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

This car’s lengthy service and maintenance history rings true on the road – it rides bumps extremely well without fuss and there are no untoward noises from the steering. It starts easily – once you’ve negotiated the aftermarket immobiliser – and it pulls extremely eagerly, especially once manual mode is engaged on the Tiptronic gearbox. This operates very well, with both buttons on the steering wheel executing changes in good time. There are no noises from the driveline and the car keeps a good temperature, even on a hot day.

BODYWORK CHECK

The bodywork on this 911 is very good. Minor swirl marks – evidence of years of washing – only become apparent on the paint’s surface in harsh light and are the only blemishes to speak of. The rear spoiler rises and falls without issue and is operated by a switch in the cabin. The Porsche shield on the front bonnet is loose, however, having seemingly lost one of its two fasteners. The powered hood works well, though; it’s in good condition and fits well.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

The interior has weathered its 90k miles well, with the dashboard, centre console and door cards showing only minimal wear. Both front seats are showing some signs of age though, with superficial cracking on the faces of the leather, particularly on the driver’s bolster. The rear seats look largely unused, however – which they probably are, being so tiny. The aftermarket Kenwood stereo works and the switchgear and dials are in good condition and work well. We struggled to get the electric seat controls to work, however; the motors make all the right sounds, but translate into little tilt/height adjustment.

UNDER THE BONNET

It’s hard to see any 911’s engine properly just by opening the rear hatch, but what we could see was in good condition. There’s no rust on either the bodywork surrounding the engine bay, or on the components themselves. The air conditioning works well, but the compressor could use a new belt. There’s a full service history featuring a mixture of Porsche main dealer and specialists’ stamps, but the car occasionally throws up a generic ‘!’ warning light – this could something as simple as low washer fluid, but it’s worth investigating before purchase.

THE CCW VIEW

This is a very well-sorted and well-cared for 993 – what many consider the finest generation of the 911. A drop-top Tiptronic is not the sportiest variant available, but plenty of buyers are looking for exactly this specification 911, benefitting from the better value these models offer. This one must surely be among the best examples that hasn’t yet been squirreled away by a collector.