Originally delivered new by Porsche Zentrum Essen in Germany, equipped with the 3.4-litre naturally aspirated flat-six producing 300 hp, the sought-after 6-speed manual gearbox, factory Limited Slip Differential and accompanied by a remarkable ownership history, extensive documentation and significant recent investment, this is an outstanding opportunity to acquire an exceptional and increasingly collectible modern Porsche classic.
Carrera-Sport-Classics is delighted to offer this exceptional Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet (996), a car that perfectly illustrates why the earliest Porsche 996 models have earned their place among today’s most appreciated modern classics.
First registered on 3 August 1998, this is a genuine early-production Carrera Cabriolet retaining all the unique design details that distinguish the very first 996 generation. The original amber front indicators integrated into the iconic first-generation “fried egg” headlights immediately identify this as one of the earliest examples produced and give the car a distinctive character that has become increasingly appreciated over the years.
Finished in the exceptionally rare factory Paint-to-Sample British Racing Green (L998), this Porsche stands apart from virtually every other early 996 currently offered for sale.
British Racing Green is one of Porsche’s most elegant historic colours and perfectly complements the timeless proportions of the 996 Cabriolet. Combined with the original amber lighting units, the overall appearance is simply breathtaking, creating an understated yet unmistakably exclusive presence. It is, without question, one of the most beautiful colour combinations ever offered on an early Porsche 996 Cabriolet.
The beautifully preserved Black full leather interior is equally impressive. The cabin remains in outstanding original condition and features the highly desirable original Sports Seats, identical in design to those fitted to the Porsche 996 Turbo. These seats not only provide significantly better lateral support but also elevate the sporting character and visual appeal of the interior, making this one of the most desirable factory interior specifications available on an early 996 Carrera.
Power comes from the original 3,387 cc naturally aspirated flat-six engine producing 300 horsepower. Smooth, responsive and wonderfully mechanical, it represents everything enthusiasts appreciate about the early water-cooled 911. Combined with the precise six-speed manual gearbox and the factory Limited Slip Differential, this Carrera delivers an engaging analogue driving experience that remains refreshingly pure and rewarding.
Originally delivered new through Porsche Zentrum Essen in Germany, this Carrera has covered only 93,900 kilometres from new.
Although six registrations appear in the official documents, the car has effectively had only three private owners throughout its lifetime. Between 2006 and 2023 it remained within the same family for no less than seventeen years, a remarkable period of long-term ownership that perfectly reflects the exceptional care and attention this Porsche has consistently received.
Few early 996s still retain such an extensive and well-preserved history file.
The car is supplied with:
- Original fully stamped Porsche service book
- Complete original owner’s wallet
- All original manuals
- Both original keys
- Extensive maintenance invoices
- Numerous original German TÜV inspection reports
- Comprehensive historical documentation covering many years of ownership
- Original factory hardtop
Throughout its life, maintenance has been entrusted exclusively to official Porsche Centres and renowned Porsche specialists.
In 2024 alone, more than €15,000 was invested in bringing this Carrera to an exceptionally high standard.
This included:
- Comprehensive mechanical inspection and major maintenance (€7,500)
- Brand-new original Sonnenland convertible roof (€4,000)
- Professional interior refurbishment and preservation (€3,700)
Prior to delivery, the car is once again undergoing a comprehensive inspection by Porsche Classic.
Should any additional items require attention, they will be addressed before delivery, ensuring that the next owner receives this exceptional Porsche in outstanding mechanical and cosmetic condition.
Another highlight of this remarkable Carrera is its exceptional originality. The bodywork retains approximately 85% of its original factory paint, an outstanding level of originality for a Porsche that is now more than twenty-five years old.
The Paint-to-Sample British Racing Green L998 finish remains beautifully preserved and perfectly reflects the careful ownership the car has enjoyed throughout its life. Paint thickness measurements are available upon request and further confirm the car’s impressive originality.
Furthermore, this Porsche is completely accident-free, providing additional confidence for collectors and enthusiasts seeking an authentic and exceptionally preserved example.
Factory Equipment & Options
C00 – German market specification
139 – Seat heating, left
197 – Stronger battery
220 – Limited Slip Differential (40%)
222 – ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation / Traction Control)
224 – Automatic Brake Differential (ABD)
340 – Seat heating, right
375 – Electrically adjustable Sports Seat, left
376 – Electrically adjustable Sports Seat, right
441 – Radio preparation
498 – Model designation deleted
551 – Wind deflector
573 – Air conditioning
662 – Porsche Communication Management (PCM 1)
936 – Rear seats upholstered in leather
981 – Leather dashboard and door panels
983 – Leather front seats
Together, these factory specifications create one of the most elegant and desirable early Porsche 996 Carrera Cabriolet configurations available today.
Today, outstanding early Porsche 996s are becoming increasingly difficult to source. Collectors and enthusiasts are beginning to recognise the importance of the first water-cooled 911, especially when presented in an exceptional specification with documented history and low mileage.
Finished in rare Paint-to-Sample British Racing Green, equipped with the desirable six-speed manual gearbox, factory Limited Slip Differential, original Sports Seats, factory hardtop and accompanied by an exceptionally complete history file, this Carrera Cabriolet represents a wonderful opportunity to acquire a genuine modern Porsche classic.
Finding another early 1998 example combining such a rare factory specification, remarkable originality, extensive provenance, documented maintenance, outstanding preservation and significant recent investment will prove exceptionally difficult.
More than twenty-five years after leaving Porsche’s production line, this exceptional Carrera Cabriolet stands as a testament to careful ownership, meticulous maintenance and tasteful factory specification. Combining extraordinary originality, an exceptionally rare Paint-to-Sample colour, extensive documentation and outstanding condition, it represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of the finest surviving early manual Porsche 996 Carrera Cabriolets available today.
Whether destined for a discerning collector or an enthusiast looking to enjoy one of Porsche’s most honest and rewarding sports cars, this exceptional Porsche 911 is ready for its next chapter.
Worldwide delivery available.
We speak Dutch, French, German and English
Independent inspections are welcomed by appointment.
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