Porsche 964 - An Overview

The Porsche 964 is an internal name given to the Porsche 911 models (1990 to 1994), the 964 superseded the 930. It had significant changes done to it compared to its predecessor. Most obvious of these is the integrated bumper fender combination. It was the first 911 to have as an option Tiptronic automatic transmission as well as all wheel drive.

The Porsche 964 Models Evolved

In 1990 Porsche 964 models came in four basic trims: The 964 Carrera 2, Carrera 4, Cabriolet and Targa.

The Carrera 2 and 4 were both coupes, while the Cabriolet had a retractable roof and the Targa had a removable roof. The 964 Targa was the last generation of 911 to have a removable roof; it was eventually replaced with a sliding glass roof system, starting in the 993 models several years later.

The 964 had a new engine with a flat 6 displacement of 3.6 liters. Suspension system was also revised to sport shock absorbers and torsion bars with oil springs. The new 964 models also had standard for the first time; a power steering and an ABS braking system.

Other improvements to the 964 were the bumpers and fog lamps, as these were now merged into the car, thus facilitating better aerodynamic. The vehicle also now brandished an electric rear spoiler that rose whenever the vehicle exceeded 50 mile per hour, and lowered flush down with the rear engine lid at lower speeds or when the car stops.

Porsche also improved on the climate control system, implementing an automatic heating and cooling system. Another improvement of the Porsche 964 relative to its predecessors is the instrumentation system which housed a large set of warning lights, so placed that the driver can see them when they are flashing, which alert the him to possible malfunction or any other problems with the vehicle.

The Porsche 964 Turbo

The 964 Turbo was introduced in March, 1990, as a successor to the renowned 930. The new Turbo retained the 3.3 liter engine from the 930, with a few minor tweaks here and there. The result was a smoother engine, which was less prone to turbo lag, thus producing more power. An approximate total of 3,660 Turbos were made.

1992 saw the introduction of the 3.3 liter Turbo S, this model spits out 381 PS (280 kW; 376 hp). The interior design and features also contributed to the speed of the Turbo S, thus making it one of the fastest cars on the road at the time. The car was definitely designed to perform with its lowered suspension. Approximately 80 cars were produced, for the 1992 production year and then Porsche ceased production of the 964 Turbo S all together.

In January, 1993 the Porsche 964 Turbo 3.6 was released, this new car now featured a turbocharged engine that produced 360 PS (260 kW; 360 hp) @ 5500 rpm. Only a limited amount of Turbo 3.6 models were manufactured, the total number is believed to be less than 1,500, consequently making them one the most highly sought after Porsche ever made.

The production of the 964 ended in 1994, which paved the way for the 993 models (1995 - 1998).

For reviews and sales on the Porsche 964 models including Porsche 964 Turbo, Porsche 964 Carrera 2 and 4, Cabriolet and Targa visit: Porsche 964