Yet despite this old-world craftsmanship and the occasional sign that the fundamental architecture dates back to the 1960s, the 993 is impressively modern. The sophisticated multilink rear suspension and massive rear tires provide an extremely sure-footed platform, while the twin plug 3.6 liter flat-6 is a torquey high-performance unit that is both tractable and full of character. The brakes, always a Porsche strong suit, are superb, and the gearbox is Porsche’s robust 6-speed G50 unit. Sophisticated and high performing but also capturing the essence of the original 911, the 993 is the best of both worlds. 993s are true classics that can be driven and enjoyed daily in modern traffic.
The 993 was available in a variety of forms, with naturally-aspirated and turbocharged engines, rear and four wheel drive, tiptronic or manual transmissions, wide and narrow bodies, and in open and closed forms. This particular example is a rear wheel drive manual [decode option sticker, hopefully under hood].
This car has been in California for at least 18 years, having resided in Marin and then San Francisco. Its current owner acquired it in 2017 and has covered about 20,000 miles since. He has spent considerable effort dialing the car in just-so in a way that is not typical for Cabriolet 993s. It has been thoughtfully upgraded with the installation of Bilstein PSS10 coilover (fitted with custom springs with lower rates to provide a more suitable ride for the Cabriolet chassis), Elephant Racing bump steer kit, RS lightweight clutch and flywheel, Wevo engine mounts, Function First transmission mounts, Fister golden rod shift mechanism, Fister exhaust, and Rennline pedals.
The car has seen extensive maintenance during this period as detailed by a substantial service file. Plenty of regular maintenance has also been performed, along with a few more substantial jobs such as the installation of a new mass air sensor, new steering rack, new fan, rebuilt alternator, new lifters, oxygen sensors, fuel pressure regulator, and much more. LED brake lights and turn signals have also been added. The convertible top has also been serviced and rebuilt as required as well. The service invoices date back to 2007 when the car had 66,000 miles and show the enthusiastic care the car has received.
On the road, the car is exceptionally incisive and a pleasure to drive, giving a markedly more keen experience than a stock 993, but still remaining civilized and usable. It is not atypical to find an air-cooled coupe 911s so thoughtfully prepared but cabriolet 911s rarely receive this treatment, making this a particularly unusual find.
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