2002 Porsche 996 Carrera 4 ‘Techart’ Cabriolet  Registratio...

Hammer

£18,000

2002 Porsche 996 Carrera 4 ‘Techart’ Cabriolet 

Registration Number: LP02 DHD
Chassis Number: WPOZZZ99Z2S642270
Recorded Mileage: c.39,000 miles

- Period TechArt upgrades
- Well kept and stored over the years
- IMS bearing replaced
- Recently serviced and new tyres fitted

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. Meanwhile, independent German tuner TechArt Automobildesign GmbH has been customising Porsches since 1987, working closely with Porsche to the point that many of its cars are subject to TechArt modification straight after leaving the factory.

One such example, this 2002 996 Carrera 4 Cabriolet benefited when new from a number of TechArt upgrades, such as a sports exhaust system, uprated springs, Performance Kit I (wheel spacers front and rear), 19” Techart wheels (recently refurbished), GT2 body styling, and a Turbo-style rear vented bumper.

This example, a 996.2 with the much improved and more powerful 3.6 litre M96/03 engine, has largely stored as part of a collection in previous ownership, the 996 covered just 6,000 miles in the last 10 years. In the accompanying history file we find the original service book, stamped up to 2015, with a more recent invoice with Porsche Centre Newcastle from 2021, and a recent invoice for a full service with a marque specialist. Notably the IMS bearing has been replaced at 35,600 miles, a common Porsche concern for prospective buyers.

We understand the car retains most of its original paintwork, with the exception of a minor paint repair to the lower section of the front bumper due to a minor scuff. The interior shows just minimal wear commensurate with the age and mileage of the car.

In May 2025 the 996 was treated to a major servie with a brake fluid change and four new tyres.

A handsome, highly capable and distinctive sportscar, the 996 is offered complete with a rare factory hardtop, advisory-free MOT valid to March 2026, a file of older invoices, V5C, and two sets of keys.