CHOOSE YOUR PORSCHE 996

The 996, launched in 1999, shares Boxster front end but with 294bhp, 3.4-litre watercooled engine – a 911 first. Coupés and cabriolets, 2- and 4wd, then 300bhp from 2001. Six-speed manual and five-speed Tiptronic versions.

420bhp Turbo launched in 2000, using Carrera 4’s awd transmission, 3.6 Mezger engine.

X50 option from 2002 has 450bhp, as does later Turbo S. Ceramic brakes optional, standard on Turbo S. Base cars get facelift in 2002 with Turbo-style headlamps and capacity increase to 3.6 litres for 315bhp, some tagged 996.2. Carrera 4S has wide body and 4wd.

40th anniversary version of 2003 has Turbo front end, 345bhp, unique alloys and comes loaded with cosmetic add-ons. 1963 are made to celebrate 911’s year of birth, all in silver. Turbo Cabriolet available from 2004. 996 is replaced by 997 in 2004, though 450bhp Turbo S, plus GT2 and GT3 models continue to be supplied through 2005.