993
1994-1998 / Coupe / Targa / Cabriolet / Germany
The 993 was the last air-cooled 911, and many enthusiasts consider it the finest expression of Ferdinand Porsche's original concept. It refined everything the 964 started: the multi-link rear suspension finally tamed the 911's handling quirks, the VarioRam intake system boosted the flat-six to 285hp, and the body styling achieved a timeless elegance that looks as good now as it did in 1994.
When Porsche switched to water cooling with the 996, the 993 became the end of an era. Values have climbed relentlessly ever since, with Turbo, GT2, and RS variants reaching truly extraordinary prices. In Australia, even a standard Carrera 993 is a serious purchase, and the market shows no signs of softening. The 993 Turbo with its twin-turbo flat-six and all-wheel drive is one of the great supercars of the 1990s, capable of humbling much more exotic machinery while remaining completely usable every day.
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Common questions.
Buying
One word: finality. The 993 is the last air-cooled 911.
Driving and Ownership
Technically, yes. The 993 is the most refined air-cooled 911, with comfortable seats, decent climate control (the heating is good; the AC works when the compressor is healthy), and a ride quality that is firm but not punishing.
Maintenance
Three tests, performed in order of increasing detail: 1. **Compression test:** A standard compression test measures the pressure each cylinder generates during cranking.
Technical
VarioRam is Porsche's variable-length intake manifold system, fitted to 993 Carrera models from 1996 onwards. It uses vacuum-operated actuators to switch between long intake runners (for low-RPM torque) and short intake runners (for high-RPM power).
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