993 is the King of Porsche, in my opinion. The absolute pinnacle of the brand. It was so expensive to build that Porsche almost went to bankrupt. You only have to close the door to see the superb quality. It closes like bank vault. These cars will be hugely collectible in the future.
Owned one 17 years ago and sold it like a bellend... one of the best road feedback cars made. Nothing drives like a 993. Regularly used to sit at 150 mph on a quiet carriageway at night... gone but not forgotten....
Shared several trips in a 993, the last enjoying the scenery in Scotland when my passenger commented this car fits you like a glove! A car that certainly grows on you and I'd never get tired of driving.
The 993 really was the sweet spot for regular 911s. As you say Jay enough performance for the road without being bonkers fast and slim hipped enough to shimmy down a B road - a thing of beauty.
To many (myself included) it is the best looking 911 ever. And it was the first 911 with 'proper' rear suspension (less likely to end up backwards in a hedge/killing you).
I had a 1995 911 993 Cabriolet for 10 years. It was midnight blue with matching blue top and light gray interior with a 6 speed manual. I lived in Connecticut and can't imagine a better driver's car for the backroads. Best sports car ever!
I have a ‘95 993 in the same colour combination. I bought it about 6 years ago and it has been a pleasure to own. I’ve always owned older Merc’s/Opels/BMW//Toyota... RWD being the main criteria but I always had lusted after a 911, any variety really. I had to push it to the limit to buy it at the time, it had around 100k miles on it and now there is 111k. Over that time period I use it sparingly but regularly but the significant part of the ownership has been the solidness and reliability of the thing. It has not had one fault over my ownership, passed its MOT every year without question and puts a huge smile on my face every time I see it never mind drive it!! Who cares if the value has went up down or sideways it’s the best car I have ever owned and I’ve owned over 100, no exaggeration! I am a car guy who would repair things myself but Ferraris makes me nervous!!
I’ve owned one for 14 years ,your review is spot on ,a few subtle tweaks ,a Quaife diff for coming out of those twisty bends and a bit more noise from the back boxes and you will never part with it
@@Nord_Mann I'm sure it's diff lock was part of the ABS setup, and preloaded setup. Quaife is a whole next level of complex magic of diff torsional gears which has made a massive difference to my none 911 track car, which I no longer use since having kids 😐😠
Completely agree Tony. James was going to review mine last year, as he is very local to me, but with COVID and a few other things on the car in-flight, didn't manage to organise. Wish I had pulled my finger out and managed to get it done now.
I've a '96 993 C2, iris blue metallic (L39V), 6-speed G50 + LSD. I just completed the 60,000 mile service on it, doing the work myself. (Changing that oil cooler resistor, front right, was... fun!) I've won more 'full concours' prizes, within and out of state, than you could shake a stick at. I've also driven it around the Pocono raceway in DE events. I bought it off my doc @16K miles when it was only 10 years old. I immediately dropped it to RS height, Bilstein HD shocks, beefier sway bars, front + rear. The thing drives like it's on rails, no bump steer. Any time I park it, and while I'm walking away, I always feel the need to look back. Can't tell you how many times people have pulled up at red lights and said: "Just name your price." She's 25 years old, this year, still looks and drives great, no CEL, and I deliberately drive with the window down no CD playing, just so I can hear that exhaust note as I loiter around the 3,000 rpm mark. _There is no substitute._
I had a '96 C2. You absolutely nailed it with this review. A really tactile car that came alive in your hands at 60. Compact and easy to place on the road. Really well built. You are spot on about the 996 - I drove mine and a friend's 996 back to back and the newer car has a similar character just more modern. And the smell.......
A friend had a 1994 993 Convertible in 1998. It was the slowest car in the range but it was incredibly fast. Borrowed it one day. Pulling out of a duel cariage way into small gap meant looking in the rearview mirror only to find i was on the boot of the car infront within seconds. Amazing acceleration.
I really appreciate your videos, being well produced, professional, with great insights into the car involved. You deserve to have 10 times as many subscribers. The variety of cars you have been able to drive makes your opinions more valid due to the breadth of your experience. Bravo!
The 993 is my favourite 911. They just look so right to my eyes. I used to walk passed a car identical to this on my way to school. It looked fab then and still does now.
This reminds me very much of my Dad’s first 911 back in the 90’s - his Carrera had the Turbo Twists, Sport Seats and was also Marble Grey (with blue dash) inside - his however was Ocean rather than Iris Blue! This was followed by two Carrera ‘S’ - the first being Schwarz Black with Marble and the second being Arctic Silver with Chestnut leather. They are truly special cars!
You are without the best car presenter I’ve ever come across. I’d even say why the hell are you not on top gear. Brilliant channel, every review high quality. Well done and thanks for all of your hard work. Have you ever done a review of an RX8? I used to have one years ago, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Best regards Kevin.
You are spot on. The 993 is a marvelous car, the only thing is you can have 90% the experience of this car just getting a 996 for one third of the price. Plus it is a lighter car, faster and with a much more exciting top end engine. Hope people keep buying cars with the eyes, so we can continue enjoying them.
996 definitely a great car to drive. I own one. But it's SO much different from the 993, which is clearly an "old Porsche" in good and bad. Mostly a handmade product. There's nothing wrong with the 996 quality, even my interior has hold up well. But when you open and close the 993 door, you can see the quality difference. Those are amazingly well built. Same thing applies to the 964. But yeah, they're too expensive and 996 offers much better value for money.
The 993 rolls together the best of the classic and the modern era Porsche 911 into one of the best looking 911 ever made. Quintessential 911 on display.
Ah yes that one. I only vaguely remembered it since I was only 4 back then, and the magazine in question was an Australian one (Wheels? Or something else I can't remember), and English was hardly my second language back in 1997.
Aww... I had a sad moment, there, when I remembered what Sabine Schmitz could do with a 911. 😔 But then I had a much happier moment when I remembered what Sabine Schmitz could do with a 911. 🏁
If you watched from trackside, Sabine could do magical things with a 911. If you watched from the mirror of your AMG GT3 at the Nordschleife, Sabine could do some fearsome things with a 911 GT3R. Long live the queen.
Always remember the richest boy at my primary schools mum getting one of these for her 40th on a P reg. P40BEK. Went in the back of it and the thing that I remember the most was the thick carpets, (I was used to vauxhall novas back then).
Great video again, thank you! I own a 993 cabrio next to my 986, both from 1997. Same brand, same year, same color, but very different cars in every dimension. In my view the 993 comes from the era in which engineers ruled Porsche. The 986 not only started the water-cooled flat-6, but also the era in which finance and marketing came to rule Porsche. Making Porsche survive and prosper till this day, but also making the 993 extra special.
This was the car I dreamed off ever since the original Need for Speed game and I kept dreaming of it until quite recently. Not that I have one now, but as James says, prices have gone mad for these. For the same amount of money I can get into a 360, but also in a 996 GT3. The latter being also a very fine proposition.
Drove a C4 and was pleasantly surprised about how comfortable in comparison to a 996/997 the car is, and what a leap forward in terms of quality and usability it was compared to a G or a 964. The engine changes completely once you reach 5000rpm and varioram comes to life. It’s a lovely small, nimble, functional sports car with just the right amount of power, and I find truly remarkable that the design still looks modern, my favorite 911 silhouette without discussion. A 993 4S it’s been on my bucket list since I can remember but prices are obscene, I will most likely end up buying a nice example of a manual C2 or C4 and drive the hell out of it and keep company to my 996 C4S. Loving the synthwave vibe of the intro and outro James.
964 and 993 are the pinnacle of Porsche brand. True hand made products and superb quality. All the old school feel with some modern improvements. And the production numbers were LOW compared to the new ones. 63K (964) and 68K (993) and much larger numbers of cabriolets back then. They made 240.000 991's. Think about that.
Jay, a few months back I picked up a 1997 C2S in arena red over cashmere with the sport seats. You are spot on with your description of it being a gorgeous color. Wouldn't have thought about it until I saw it in person, after that it was the only color I had in mind.
Love the analogue dials, 25 years old and they still look cool. Somehow i doubt any digital dials will look cool (or still work) 26 years from now on modern cars.
Great vid. The 993 was pretty much a ready built restomod from the very start with its mix of modern and old school charms. Values are strong because its such a useable, high days car with still enough performance to enjoy. The wealth of upgrade routes from the RS back catalogue and specialists suppliers means you can tweak the cars character endlessly to your taste, just don't buy one that hasn't had money spent on it... particularity on suspension. Ten years into my ownership, I'm still using it for weekend chilled trips and giving it the beans on track days. If I was buying again, I'd definitely look to buy one that's been actively used, can't say I'd bother about an S version... fatter, slower and generally owned by the polishing crowd who can't afford the turbo IMHO... but each to their own.
The styling cues might be quintessential 90's, but they melded with the old 911 shape and made it as modern as it could get without looking silly, and it ended up nigh-on perfect. One of those cars you never tire of looking at.
Just the perfect video for me, having bought a 1996 993 Carrera last September. Had a 964 back in the early 90's, but this is the one I have been looking for ages. Iris blue, manual box, light grey leather, hard-back sports seats. Even came with a sunroof, rear wiper and aircon. Perfect. Sounds amazing, goes like a train and does about 24mpg. I am also lucky enough to have a 1995 F355 Berlinetta which also sounds amazing and goes like a train but does about 15mpg...Haha, who really gives a f***. Loving the vids Mr J Emm, keep 'em coming! Cheers from Neil in a rather lovely sunny Otford, Kent.
I very much agree with your video assessment. I have owned a 1995 993 and now own a 1997 Turbo slightly modified to include headers and sports exhaust producing 500hp. Exceptional handling and extraordinary power to weight ratio in both variants.
Favourite 911, i was fortunate to be given a drive in one ,owner of a kitchen company i used to deliver to had one , think he got sick of me slobbering over it came out give me the keys came with me like but stipulated i give it the beans ha ha ,what stuck in my mind the most tho was the tank like build quality everything about it felt heavy and solid .
I bought my 1998 993 C2S in December 1997 and never plan to sell it. It’s a wonderful car that can be daily driven (at least in California) and it was my only car for 2 1/2 years. I drove it everywhere. It costs about $1200 a year on average to maintain. I’ve got about 70,000 miles in mine. These are Porsches so they are not garage queens. If you want an analog experience and a car feels like it is built around you, the 993 is a car you should own. Regarding the years built, here in the U.S., we had the 993 from 1995-1998 and the Turbos were built in 1996-97. The unicorn is the Turbo S of which less than 200 were built in 1997 only and which are worth over $400,000 now (from $150,000 new).
@jealva .. The same here; Ordered a 993 C2S in late May '97 taking delivery in the Fall. .. The '98 C2S is a keeper -- going when I leave this earth. .. Cheers, Vail, Colorado P.S., Wifes '15 981 Boxster S is another solid Porsche cabriolet...
I love the 993 so much and I'm searching for the '95 C2 manual coupe that's waiting for me out there somewhere. Your video captures the incredible sound of that engine! Nothing sounds quite as magical as the Porsche air-cooled flat six.
Very poignant and true comment at the beginning about these cars; They will only lift your spirit if you already are in a decent mood, but then they do that in a spectacular way. How very true! Then everything just feels right and you are on the top of the world. Great on the Autobahn but best on those twisty roads. Great review, thanks!
Such a beautiful classis. Of course there was only 61,000 993's built as compared to 175,000 mass produced 996's. Imagine back in 1997 a customer going into an OPC to buy a 911& speaking to the salesman: Salesman -"well sir here we have a model 993 C2 at £58995, air cooled & 285 BHP but we are not making these any more as its old fashioned design & technology. Here sir we have the 911 of the future: model 996 C2, water cooled 300BHP and yours for £56495". Customer - "I want the latest technology from Porsche who have a reputation for engineering excellence & hewn from granite build quality not something outdated. I'll have a 996 please". 24 years later that customer will be ruing his decision as his 996 (if it hasn't succumbed to IMS failure or bore scoring) is now worth £10K while the 993 he rejected has at the very least held its value but more likely gained £10-£15K.
That sound so personal, so particular to the 911 that makes it so charming and special is one of the secrets that have led it to be on the market for 58 years without interruption. It's something that no Ferrari, Lamborghini, Aston Martin or Jaguar will ever have.
Great video, as most of them, Mr. Martin, but this time with the perfect car!!! I own a 1994 993 C2 in Irisblue (!) by myself (no sunroof or rear wiper, but limited slip diff and automatic break diff.), having the complete history down to the first day of delivery (29 ilometers) :-) Greetings from Switzerland and please say hello to the owner of this lovely Irisblue 993.
993 Turbo in Arena Red is the only burgundy car I lust after, like the Green Lotus Carlton and Silver 8L S3. Burgundy, green and silver I hate on any other car 😂
I've never driven one but the 993 seems ideal for that balance of purist's deft car, decently sized for regular use, and smartly styled without being fussy. How badly I'd like something as special available these days. And yes on Arena Red.
It's strange how much better the Arena red looks on the widebody cars. It's not as good looking on a narrow body. Silver, black, red, dark grey and this particular iris blue are the best narrow body colors overall, imho.
I vividly remember seeing an example of this for sale for £14,000. It was outside a nice house in Brentwood in Essex. Granted I didn’t go and see it but it had 60 maybe 80,000 on the clock full-service history and was described as very good condition. Whilst I had the cash I could not justify laying out such a large sum to me at the time. It was probably about 2007/2008.
Now it's valued probably 5x or 6x times that much. By the way UK prices of 964/993 are the chepest in the world. Check out the US prices... insane!!!! :o
I own a 993 S 3.8 but would rather prefer the Non-S. Non-S is a little bit more nimble, lighter and (apart from the back) looks a little bit more, how should i say it, balanced imo.
Great video James, and calls out exactly why I bought my 993 around the same time Paul did. A shame I couldn't sort out timing for you to review mine as we had originally discussed as would have loved that review to have been on my 993 (Also Iris Blue, upgraded suspension, airbox, exhaust and a few other bits and pieces)
I love this car. But when you can only afford one 911 it's hard to ignore a low mileage 997 manual turbo and a 997 GT3. But if I could two I would love this one. Very elegant and classy.
My fantasy list definitely has an Arena Red 993 Turbo on it. My neighbour has a yellow 993 Carrera and another one just got the latest 992, and the size of the new Porsches is evident when they're viewed close to one another, it's like a sedan next to a go-kart.
New to the party. I saw 1 or 2 videos in my feed and since watching those, I’m now subscribed and making my way through the back catalogue. I adore the 993, a great car. Speaking of which, brilliant channel!
I had one of these too, also driving around Norfolk and it was superb as you say James. Sadly I had to sell in 2010 just as the prices shot up :( A couple of extra things to your excellent review. A big feature of driving this is the pedal offset. It's way off to the left because of the wheel arch, and along with the fact you can't get the seat too far back, you sit twisted so it's not great for everyone and can give you a back ache, try before buying. The other thing is the engine noise in the cabin which doesn't come across in this video, it's that lovely air cooled noise, however it's quite refined compared with the older air cooled machines which sound more raw, they go from VW camper van to a lovely metallic scream. This car however sounds much smoother and like you say James, the 996 isn't a huge amount different despite being watercooled. Anyway it is a fantastic car and perfect for country B roads :)
Have you seen 993 gt2 or 993 rsr original Porsche bodykits they're just awesome looking. but the only RWB car I've seen that I like is on an older style 964 and its Phil's car on Driftworks channel. its got the arches blended in rather than bolt on and its not to wide. lt looks more OEM plus and a whole lot more subtle. Have you seen that?@@Vanilla.coke1234
@@paulwalker993RSR This is a matter of personal opinion, Paul Walker. No need to sound so salty Also, if that's not your real name you really shouldn't claim it as your username. It's judge poor taste
What great commentary about the iconic 993! Just a down to earth, substantive review. Lucky to own a 1995 C4. Beautiful lines and just a great looking and handling car.
Jay, you really nailed the experience of a 993 manual carerra coupe with this vid. Try have a go in one with 17" wheels (better on UK roads imo) + earlier non-varioram (shorter gearing), + no Aircon (bit lighter). Even better!!
Great Jay. The shirt now is on the right place (LOL). YES the 993 is the pinnacle of air cooled 911. I love my 993 cab and cant't wait every time to drive it. Never get tired of this beauty. Ride on 993!
I have one of these, but now fairly well modified :-] . when I first went looking for one I ended up coming to the same conclusion as you, that I could buy a later Ferrari for similar money so bought one of those instead. However; I soon got bored with having to keep stopping to pick bits up that had fallen off [to use a Clarkson Quote "THEYRE MADE OF CHEESE"], as well as putting up with all other drivers thinking I was a complete D### just because I was in a fezza! so I put all the bits back on it and sold it and went out and got what I should have bought in the first place. I love this car and will never sell it.
Hear hear .... I would say v well modified 😎. Only down the road so should let James review yours and see how it handles/performs when we’ll setup and with a bit more Oomph !
The 993 has the best Porsche exterior with the best classic Porsche interior. It's timeless. I want one so badly.
Porsh*
Still my favorite 911 of all time. This my be heresy, but the 997 is actually my second favorite.
@@jasonsguitarjourney2060 I can totally get behind the 997. Fantastic interior too.
Got 90K you can grab up a 1996 993 Carrera 4S.
Yessir
993 is the King of Porsche, in my opinion. The absolute pinnacle of the brand. It was so expensive to build that Porsche almost went to bankrupt. You only have to close the door to see the superb quality. It closes like bank vault. These cars will be hugely collectible in the future.
Owned one 17 years ago and sold it like a bellend... one of the best road feedback cars made. Nothing drives like a 993. Regularly used to sit at 150 mph on a quiet carriageway at night... gone but not forgotten....
That's very lucky of you
@@dans2971 just forget it. You would have destroyed it. Boooooom💥
Shared several trips in a 993, the last enjoying the scenery in Scotland when my passenger commented this car fits you like a glove! A car that certainly grows on you and I'd never get tired of driving.
The 993 really was the sweet spot for regular 911s. As you say Jay enough performance for the road without being bonkers fast and slim hipped enough to shimmy down a B road - a thing of beauty.
One of the finest 911's Porsche ever made and the end of an era.
993 and 930🤤🤤🤤
Porsh*
@@PointNemo9 Porsche*
@@SVPSkins *tuna
To many (myself included) it is the best looking 911 ever. And it was the first 911 with 'proper' rear suspension (less likely to end up backwards in a hedge/killing you).
I had a 1995 911 993 Cabriolet for 10 years. It was midnight blue with matching blue top and light gray interior with a 6 speed manual. I lived in Connecticut and can't imagine a better driver's car for the backroads. Best sports car ever!
I have a ‘95 993 in the same colour combination. I bought it about 6 years ago and it has been a pleasure to own. I’ve always owned older Merc’s/Opels/BMW//Toyota... RWD being the main criteria but I always had lusted after a 911, any variety really. I had to push it to the limit to buy it at the time, it had around 100k miles on it and now there is 111k. Over that time period I use it sparingly but regularly but the significant part of the ownership has been the solidness and reliability of the thing. It has not had one fault over my ownership, passed its MOT every year without question and puts a huge smile on my face every time I see it never mind drive it!! Who cares if the value has went up down or sideways it’s the best car I have ever owned and I’ve owned over 100, no exaggeration!
I am a car guy who would repair things myself but Ferraris makes me nervous!!
Right. I owned a Ferrari F355 GTS. After two years sold it...Interior with sticky plastic, air con not working etc.
The 993 has the best arse of any Porsche and they’re so much fun. Gorgeous car!
I’ve owned one for 14 years ,your review is spot on ,a few subtle tweaks ,a Quaife diff for coming out of those twisty bends and a bit more noise from the back boxes and you will never part with it
Diff is a mod? Didn’t they come with LSD as standard?
@@Nord_Mann I'm sure it's diff lock was part of the ABS setup, and preloaded setup. Quaife is a whole next level of complex magic of diff torsional gears which has made a massive difference to my none 911 track car, which I no longer use since having kids 😐😠
LSD was an option on a C2 but mine didn’t have it ,Quaife transformed the drive on track and road
Completely agree Tony. James was going to review mine last year, as he is very local to me, but with COVID and a few other things on the car in-flight, didn't manage to organise. Wish I had pulled my finger out and managed to get it done now.
Finally a presenter to review a car that has the knowledge and isn't annoying to listen to. Bravo sir!
I've a '96 993 C2, iris blue metallic (L39V), 6-speed G50 + LSD. I just completed the 60,000 mile service on it, doing the work myself. (Changing that oil cooler resistor, front right, was... fun!)
I've won more 'full concours' prizes, within and out of state, than you could shake a stick at. I've also driven it around the Pocono raceway in DE events.
I bought it off my doc @16K miles when it was only 10 years old. I immediately dropped it to RS height, Bilstein HD shocks, beefier sway bars, front + rear. The thing drives like it's on rails, no bump steer.
Any time I park it, and while I'm walking away, I always feel the need to look back. Can't tell you how many times people have pulled up at red lights and said: "Just name your price."
She's 25 years old, this year, still looks and drives great, no CEL, and I deliberately drive with the window down no CD playing, just so I can hear that exhaust note as I loiter around the 3,000 rpm mark. _There is no substitute._
The 993 has always been my favourite generation of 911. Think it's the prettiest of the 911's.
I had a '96 C2. You absolutely nailed it with this review.
A really tactile car that came alive in your hands at 60. Compact and easy to place on the road. Really well built. You are spot on about the 996 - I drove mine and a friend's 996 back to back and the newer car has a similar character just more modern.
And the smell.......
4.03 My misses walked in the room just as you said "its pulsating in your hand". I got a strange look
@dean b .. Hilarious!
I hope she didn't just turn and walk out again with hearing the context!
A friend had a 1994 993 Convertible in 1998. It was the slowest car in the range but it was incredibly fast. Borrowed it one day. Pulling out of a duel cariage way into small gap meant looking in the rearview mirror only to find i was on the boot of the car infront within seconds. Amazing acceleration.
I absolutely love this car. I'm probably the world's biggest Porsche fanboy, and the 993 has been my dream car since I was a little kid.
Porsh*
@@PointNemo9 🤦♂️🤣
Idk man I might contest you for that title lol
I really appreciate your videos, being well produced, professional, with great insights into the car involved. You deserve to have 10 times as many subscribers. The variety of cars you have been able to drive makes your opinions more valid due to the breadth of your experience. Bravo!
Thanks Don
Those 993s are a bit on the porky side, I wouldn't kick it out of my driveway.
The 993 is my favourite 911. They just look so right to my eyes.
I used to walk passed a car identical to this on my way to school. It looked fab then and still does now.
Timeless!
This reminds me very much of my Dad’s first 911 back in the 90’s - his Carrera had the Turbo Twists, Sport Seats and was also Marble Grey (with blue dash) inside - his however was Ocean rather than Iris Blue! This was followed by two Carrera ‘S’ - the first being Schwarz Black with Marble and the second being Arctic Silver with Chestnut leather. They are truly special cars!
You are without the best car presenter I’ve ever come across. I’d even say why the hell are you not on top gear. Brilliant channel, every review high quality. Well done and thanks for all of your hard work. Have you ever done a review of an RX8? I used to have one years ago, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Best regards Kevin.
Thankyou, and yes I have done an RX8
Too good for top gear tbh
You are spot on. The 993 is a marvelous car, the only thing is you can have 90% the experience of this car just getting a 996 for one third of the price. Plus it is a lighter car, faster and with a much more exciting top end engine. Hope people keep buying cars with the eyes, so we can continue enjoying them.
996 definitely a great car to drive. I own one. But it's SO much different from the 993, which is clearly an "old Porsche" in good and bad. Mostly a handmade product. There's nothing wrong with the 996 quality, even my interior has hold up well. But when you open and close the 993 door, you can see the quality difference. Those are amazingly well built. Same thing applies to the 964. But yeah, they're too expensive and 996 offers much better value for money.
The 993 rolls together the best of the classic and the modern era Porsche 911 into one of the best looking 911 ever made. Quintessential 911 on display.
Porsh*
It has the greatest engine and the greatest stance of all generations of 911. Everything is so right and so Porsche. Brilliant.
Ah yes. Arena Red. That magazine ad of 993 Turbo in Arena Red sticks to mind whenever said colour is mentioned. At least to me.
With yellow brakes?
Kills Bugs Fast.
Ah yes that one. I only vaguely remembered it since I was only 4 back then, and the magazine in question was an Australian one (Wheels? Or something else I can't remember), and English was hardly my second language back in 1997.
Same.
Arena red is amazing, probably my most desired color
993 is my favourite 911 model.
Aww... I had a sad moment, there, when I remembered what Sabine Schmitz could do with a 911. 😔 But then I had a much happier moment when I remembered what Sabine Schmitz could do with a 911. 🏁
If you watched from trackside, Sabine could do magical things with a 911.
If you watched from the mirror of your AMG GT3 at the Nordschleife, Sabine could do some fearsome things with a 911 GT3R. Long live the queen.
My Perfect setup, blue exterior, bright interior with sport seats. Love it.
Always remember the richest boy at my primary schools mum getting one of these for her 40th on a P reg. P40BEK. Went in the back of it and the thing that I remember the most was the thick carpets, (I was used to vauxhall novas back then).
Great video again, thank you! I own a 993 cabrio next to my 986, both from 1997. Same brand, same year, same color, but very different cars in every dimension. In my view the 993 comes from the era in which engineers ruled Porsche. The 986 not only started the water-cooled flat-6, but also the era in which finance and marketing came to rule Porsche. Making Porsche survive and prosper till this day, but also making the 993 extra special.
This was the car I dreamed off ever since the original Need for Speed game and I kept dreaming of it until quite recently. Not that I have one now, but as James says, prices have gone mad for these. For the same amount of money I can get into a 360, but also in a 996 GT3. The latter being also a very fine proposition.
Need for Speed: Road Challenge 1999 the best
@@illegalbeast87 Personally I liked Porsche 2000 or Unleashed the most. ;)
The best 911 ever!
Oh baby this car puts shivers down my spine
Drove a C4 and was pleasantly surprised about how comfortable in comparison to a 996/997 the car is, and what a leap forward in terms of quality and usability it was compared to a G or a 964. The engine changes completely once you reach 5000rpm and varioram comes to life. It’s a lovely small, nimble, functional sports car with just the right amount of power, and I find truly remarkable that the design still looks modern, my favorite 911 silhouette without discussion. A 993 4S it’s been on my bucket list since I can remember but prices are obscene, I will most likely end up buying a nice example of a manual C2 or C4 and drive the hell out of it and keep company to my 996 C4S. Loving the synthwave vibe of the intro and outro James.
For me, the 964 RS America is number one, the 993 C2 is number two. It’s a close contest. They are just perfect cars.
964 and 993 are the pinnacle of Porsche brand. True hand made products and superb quality. All the old school feel with some modern improvements. And the production numbers were LOW compared to the new ones. 63K (964) and 68K (993) and much larger numbers of cabriolets back then. They made 240.000 991's. Think about that.
Jay, a few months back I picked up a 1997 C2S in arena red over cashmere with the sport seats. You are spot on with your description of it being a gorgeous color. Wouldn't have thought about it until I saw it in person, after that it was the only color I had in mind.
Love the analogue dials, 25 years old and they still look cool. Somehow i doubt any digital dials will look cool (or still work) 26 years from now on modern cars.
Minus the "cement gray" interior color, this looks AWESOME😎
love the outside bonnet angle looking into the cabin. Reminds me of high budget top gear
Great vid. The 993 was pretty much a ready built restomod from the very start with its mix of modern and old school charms. Values are strong because its such a useable, high days car with still enough performance to enjoy. The wealth of upgrade routes from the RS back catalogue and specialists suppliers means you can tweak the cars character endlessly to your taste, just don't buy one that hasn't had money spent on it... particularity on suspension. Ten years into my ownership, I'm still using it for weekend chilled trips and giving it the beans on track days. If I was buying again, I'd definitely look to buy one that's been actively used, can't say I'd bother about an S version... fatter, slower and generally owned by the polishing crowd who can't afford the turbo IMHO... but each to their own.
Yes I love an old air-cooled motor!
I have the 993's baby brother and almost twin from the front, the 968 in Iris Blue, stunning colour.
The styling cues might be quintessential 90's, but they melded with the old 911 shape and made it as modern as it could get without looking silly, and it ended up nigh-on perfect. One of those cars you never tire of looking at.
exactly, it's "best of both worlds". a perfect synthesis of old and new. timeless masterpiece and last proper hand built "German Engineering" Porsche
An absolute dream car. Keep these videos coming!
These and earlier Porsches make me drool. I’m in love with them but doubt I’ll ever be able to afford one.
With the exception of the "driving stuff" on the right, this is my car! I couldn't put a review in better words!!
New 96' 993 C2 owner here. This review had a major influence in this decision.
👏…I’m getting a 96 targa …I’m so excited
Just the perfect video for me, having bought a 1996 993 Carrera last September. Had a 964 back in the early 90's, but this is the one I have been looking for ages. Iris blue, manual box, light grey leather, hard-back sports seats. Even came with a sunroof, rear wiper and aircon. Perfect. Sounds amazing, goes like a train and does about 24mpg. I am also lucky enough to have a 1995 F355 Berlinetta which also sounds amazing and goes like a train but does about 15mpg...Haha, who really gives a f***. Loving the vids Mr J Emm, keep 'em coming! Cheers from Neil in a rather lovely sunny Otford, Kent.
Haha - small world... I have a 95 993 also in Iris Blue - in Wrotham...
Best 993 colors: Iris blue, arctic silver and arena red. Absolutely.
Jay, thanks for putting in words what I feel and experience when driving my 1996 993. Couldn’t have said it better.
I very much agree with your video assessment. I have owned a 1995 993 and now own a 1997 Turbo slightly modified to include headers and sports exhaust producing 500hp. Exceptional handling and extraordinary power to weight ratio in both variants.
My favourite 911 has always been the 993. If I won the lottery tomorrow it would be to first 911 I would buy and never sell.
Favourite 911, i was fortunate to be given a drive in one ,owner of a kitchen company i used to deliver to had one , think he got sick of me slobbering over it came out give me the keys came with me like but stipulated i give it the beans ha ha ,what stuck in my mind the most tho was the tank like build quality everything about it felt heavy and solid .
I also love the smallness of the air/oil-cooled 911s. The water-cooled successors may be dynamically superior, but the bloat and impersonal styling!
993, one of my dream cars. One can only dream here and I guess its good to have a dream. Maybe 1x day.... Lovely cars that has always ticked my boxes!
I bought my 1998 993 C2S in December 1997 and never plan to sell it. It’s a wonderful car that can be daily driven (at least in California) and it was my only car for 2 1/2 years. I drove it everywhere. It costs about $1200 a year on average to maintain. I’ve got about 70,000 miles in mine. These are Porsches so they are not garage queens. If you want an analog experience and a car feels like it is built around you, the 993 is a car you should own. Regarding the years built, here in the U.S., we had the 993 from 1995-1998 and the Turbos were built in 1996-97. The unicorn is the Turbo S of which less than 200 were built in 1997 only and which are worth over $400,000 now (from $150,000 new).
@jealva .. The same here; Ordered a 993 C2S in late May '97 taking delivery in the Fall. .. The '98 C2S is a keeper -- going when I leave this earth. .. Cheers, Vail, Colorado
P.S., Wifes '15 981 Boxster S is another solid Porsche cabriolet...
@@michaelschneider- I hope you have many more decades to enjoy your C2S. May you enjoy it in good health always. 👍
Ive always loved the 993
Cheaper and better when compared to a new one!
The rear screen wiper is likely also an option - great review, enough to start people looking for a 993!
I love the 993 so much and I'm searching for the '95 C2 manual coupe that's waiting for me out there somewhere. Your video captures the incredible sound of that engine! Nothing sounds quite as magical as the Porsche air-cooled flat six.
I'm not the only one remembering the days of a cheap 993, and thinking no rush they'll get cheaper, once again great video 👍
Very poignant and true comment at the beginning about these cars; They will only lift your spirit if you already are in a decent mood, but then they do that in a spectacular way. How very true! Then everything just feels right and you are on the top of the world. Great on the Autobahn but best on those twisty roads. Great review, thanks!
Such a beautiful classis. Of course there was only 61,000 993's built as compared to 175,000 mass produced 996's. Imagine back in 1997 a customer going into an OPC to buy a 911& speaking to the salesman: Salesman -"well sir here we have a model 993 C2 at £58995, air cooled & 285 BHP but we are not making these any more as its old fashioned design & technology. Here sir we have the 911 of the future: model 996 C2, water cooled 300BHP and yours for £56495". Customer - "I want the latest technology from Porsche who have a reputation for engineering excellence & hewn from granite build quality not something outdated. I'll have a 996 please". 24 years later that customer will be ruing his decision as his 996 (if it hasn't succumbed to IMS failure or bore scoring) is now worth £10K while the 993 he rejected has at the very least held its value but more likely gained £10-£15K.
Fell in love with this after edds maguc was waved over one on wheeler dealers
Yeah, that ocean rusted beautiful Targa in my favorite colour, some sort of dark turqoise! that Porsche and the Jag XJ Coupe are my all time WD favs!!
That sound so personal, so particular to the 911 that makes it so charming and special is one of the secrets that have led it to be on the market for 58 years without interruption.
It's something that no Ferrari, Lamborghini, Aston Martin or Jaguar will ever have.
Great video, as most of them, Mr. Martin, but this time with the perfect car!!!
I own a 1994 993 C2 in Irisblue (!) by myself (no sunroof or rear wiper, but limited slip diff and automatic break diff.), having the complete history down to the first day of delivery (29 ilometers) :-)
Greetings from Switzerland and please say hello to the owner of this lovely Irisblue 993.
993 Turbo in Arena Red is the only burgundy car I lust after, like the Green Lotus Carlton and Silver 8L S3. Burgundy, green and silver I hate on any other car 😂
I've never driven one but the 993 seems ideal for that balance of purist's deft car, decently sized for regular use, and smartly styled without being fussy. How badly I'd like something as special available these days. And yes on Arena Red.
My grandpa has one of those! Cool car imo
I really think this has one of the most beautiful 911 bodies. Very rare too.
Shout out for your choice of Arena Red. For me, that's THE colour for the 993 Turbo
It's strange how much better the Arena red looks on the widebody cars. It's not as good looking on a narrow body. Silver, black, red, dark grey and this particular iris blue are the best narrow body colors overall, imho.
I vividly remember seeing an example of this for sale for £14,000. It was outside a nice house in Brentwood in Essex. Granted I didn’t go and see it but it had 60 maybe 80,000 on the clock full-service history and was described as very good condition. Whilst I had the cash I could not justify laying out such a large sum to me at the time. It was probably about 2007/2008.
Now it's valued probably 5x or 6x times that much. By the way UK prices of 964/993 are the chepest in the world. Check out the US prices... insane!!!! :o
I own a 993 S 3.8 but would rather prefer the Non-S. Non-S is a little bit more nimble, lighter and (apart from the back) looks a little bit more, how should i say it, balanced imo.
I do like these... I think one of my favourite looking 911s.
Great video James, and calls out exactly why I bought my 993 around the same time Paul did. A shame I couldn't sort out timing for you to review mine as we had originally discussed as would have loved that review to have been on my 993 (Also Iris Blue, upgraded suspension, airbox, exhaust and a few other bits and pieces)
I'll never say no to another drive in a 993
Thanks for another absorbing ride and video JayEmm!! Great to see you having fun considering the 993 is essentially your kind of Porsche :)
I totally disagree: the right music can change your mood! Cheers!
I love this car. But when you can only afford one 911 it's hard to ignore a low mileage 997 manual turbo and a 997 GT3. But if I could two I would love this one. Very elegant and classy.
My fantasy list definitely has an Arena Red 993 Turbo on it. My neighbour has a yellow 993 Carrera and another one just got the latest 992, and the size of the new Porsches is evident when they're viewed close to one another, it's like a sedan next to a go-kart.
Great review as we have come to expect from you.
Great to drive, super comfortable and parred down to just the stuff you need. The ultimate everyday Porsche 911.
New to the party. I saw 1 or 2 videos in my feed and since watching those, I’m now subscribed and making my way through the back catalogue. I adore the 993, a great car. Speaking of which, brilliant channel!
My favorite 911
My favourite 911..👍👍
The last of the true Porsche’s! Long live 993!
I had one of these too, also driving around Norfolk and it was superb as you say James. Sadly I had to sell in 2010 just as the prices shot up :(
A couple of extra things to your excellent review. A big feature of driving this is the pedal offset. It's way off to the left because of the wheel arch, and along with the fact you can't get the seat too far back, you sit twisted so it's not great for everyone and can give you a back ache, try before buying.
The other thing is the engine noise in the cabin which doesn't come across in this video, it's that lovely air cooled noise, however it's quite refined compared with the older air cooled machines which sound more raw, they go from VW camper van to a lovely metallic scream. This car however sounds much smoother and like you say James, the 996 isn't a huge amount different despite being watercooled.
Anyway it is a fantastic car and perfect for country B roads :)
Always hankered after one of these. Last of the air-cooled classics. What a car. Great video as always. Cheers Jay.
Personally, 993's are the best looking 911's to stick a wide body and aftermarket wheels on
The design was so good that they're making the modern ones look like it. It was such a gorgeous car.
As long as you don't go to wide RWB style, they just look tacky cartoon and will bump steer like crazy
@@paulwalker993RSR RWB's belong on the old style cars imo. The 993 looks too modern for them
Have you seen 993 gt2 or 993 rsr original Porsche bodykits they're just awesome looking. but the only RWB car I've seen that I like is on an older style 964 and its Phil's car on Driftworks channel. its got the arches blended in rather than bolt on and its not to wide. lt looks more OEM plus and a whole lot more subtle. Have you seen that?@@Vanilla.coke1234
@@paulwalker993RSR This is a matter of personal opinion, Paul Walker. No need to sound so salty
Also, if that's not your real name you really shouldn't claim it as your username. It's judge poor taste
What great commentary about the iconic 993! Just a down to earth, substantive review. Lucky to own a 1995 C4. Beautiful lines and just a great looking and handling car.
Jay, you really nailed the experience of a 993 manual carerra coupe with this vid. Try have a go in one with 17" wheels (better on UK roads imo) + earlier non-varioram (shorter gearing), + no Aircon (bit lighter). Even better!!
The targa my mother had was a fairly rare one as it had varioram and the shorter gearing. Helped offset the extra weight nicely
The mufflers were also different on the engine sound package, not just the extra holes in the air box.
I want one ☝️ maybe in the next few years with crazy high mileage 😂
probably my favourite porsche
Thanks J, good looking car.
Great Jay. The shirt now is on the right place (LOL). YES the 993 is the pinnacle of air cooled 911. I love my 993 cab and cant't wait every time to drive it. Never get tired of this beauty. Ride on 993!
My favourite car reviewer just after Jeremy ☺️ Jay for Top Gear!!!
I'm off the oppinion the likes of Jay, Doug Demuro are infinitely better than Jeremy and his two pals. Great reviews without the BS.
One of the most dangerous that's for sure, the Turbo 4 was a wild car.
I have one of these, but now fairly well modified :-] . when I first went looking for one I ended up coming to the same conclusion as you, that I could buy a later Ferrari for similar money so bought one of those instead. However; I soon got bored with having to keep stopping to pick bits up that had fallen off [to use a Clarkson Quote "THEYRE MADE OF CHEESE"], as well as putting up with all other drivers thinking I was a complete D### just because I was in a fezza! so I put all the bits back on it and sold it and went out and got what I should have bought in the first place. I love this car and will never sell it.
Hear hear .... I would say v well modified 😎. Only down the road so should let James review yours and see how it handles/performs when we’ll setup and with a bit more Oomph !
The 1996 US 993 had two significant differences over the 1995. The engine now had varioram intake and OBD2.