1999 PORSCHE 996 CARRERA 4 Registration Number: S578 SBD Ch...

Estimate

£10,000 - £11,000

1999 PORSCHE 996 CARRERA 4

Registration Number: S578 SBD
Chassis Number: WPOZZZ 99ZXS601302
Recorded Mileage: c.118,750 miles

- Desirable non-sunroof example
- Excellent history with 16 service stamps 

By the early 1990s it was becoming abundantly clear that upcoming emissions regulations would make it impossible for Porsche to continue to deliver 911 levels of performance from its air-cooled engine. That realisation led to the release of the first ever water-cooled 911, the Type 996. The 996 Carrera Coupe made its world debut at the 1997 Frankfurt Motor Show. Designer Pinky Lai had spent many hours in a wind tunnel refining the car’s slippery shape, a Cd of just 0.30 was the result, down from 0.33 for the 993. A new feature was the electric rear spoiler which extends at 75mph, then retracts again at 37mph – Lai recalls how he had to fight for the inclusion of the electrically operated rear spoiler to better manage downforce at high speeds, despite the company arguing there wasn’t enough funding for this to be included. Thankfully Lai won through, and the active spoiler was included as standard in the final production specification. 911s have become progressively bigger over time, but the 996 is a beautifully manageable size for UK driving; plenty of power, poised handling, well weighted steering and a well damped ride all combine to provide a truly rewarding driving experience. 

This non-sunroof 996 Carrera Coupe was built in 1999 but not first registered until May of 2001. This Gen 1 car is fitted with the more reliable 3.4 litre boxer six cylinder motor, Tiptronic gearbox and all-wheel-drive drivetrain, lending the car performance, usability and fabulous grip in spades. The 996 has been very well maintained over the years, with a total of 16 stamps in the service book supplied with the car. Recent work with Cotswold Porsche Specialists (at 118,657 miles in July 2022) includes servicing, Variocam seal, pump seal, the fitting of brake discs and a suspension control arm. As a result we understand the 996 drives just as well as it looks.

Finished in Zenith Blue with the grey leather interior, and offered with a stamped service book, both keys and a current MoT certificate, this well cared for classic 911 provides exceptional value for money in the current market.