Fantasy Junction

Description

1997 Porsche 993 Targa
Chassis Number – WP0DA2993VS385464
Exterior Color – Black
Interior Color – Black Leather
Engine Type – 3.6 Liter six-cylinder
Gearbox – 6-speed manual
Current Miles – 76,133 miles

History of the 993

An instant classic, the 993 generation Porsche 911 continues to reign as one of the most sought-after models, decades after its lauded introduction. As the last of the air-cooled 911s, the 993 represents the most developed of the original formula that first appeared in 1963. The layout of the instruments, the body design, and the entire greenhouse is thematically unchanged from the original 911, blending the essence of the original with the finest in modern technology. These cars have a feeling of solidity and craftsmanship that departed entirely in the 996 generation, which replaced the 993, but has been missing from almost every version made in the ensuing decades since. The Targa variant was also an important design change in this series offering a smooth roof design with the panoramic Targa glass and retractable sunshade.

Yet despite this heritage architecture and bespoke craftsmanship, the 993 is impressively modern, even 25 years after its introduction. The sophisticated multilink rear suspension and massive rear tires make the rear placement of the engine a non-issue, while the twin plug 3.6 liter flat-6 is a torquey high-performance unit that is both tractable and full of character. The brakes, always a Porsche strong suit, are superb, and the gearbox is Porsche's robust 6-speed G50 unit. Sophisticated and high performing but also capturing the essence of the original 911, the 993 is the best of both worlds, making them true classics that can be driven and enjoyed daily in modern traffic.

History of this Porsche 993

According to the Porsche options hood sticker, original owner’s manual, and Carfax history, this Targa was sold by Momentum Porsche, Houston, TX. The first owner purchased the car January 22, 1997, outfitted with the following options from the factory:

CO2 – Catalytic Converter Equipped
139 – Seat Heating Left
159 – Motor Sound Package
220 – Locking Differential
224 – Active Brake Differential
340 – Seat Heating Right
398 – 17” Five Spoke Wheels
425 – Rear Wiper
437 – Comfort Seat Left
438 – Comfort Seat Right
454 – Automatic Speed Control
490 – HiFi Sound System
688 – CDR 210 Radio

The first owner, a resident of Houston, TX retained the car until 2014, accumulating 64,000 miles with regular services at the selling dealership. A 60k service was performed in 2014 including new tires, four-wheel alignment, front brake pads, A/C relay replaced and freon recharge, new spark plugs, new fuel filter, oil and filter change, air and cabin filters replaced, and other minor services.

The second owner, a Southern California resident, purchased the car with 67,142 miles, eventually moving to Northern California as consecutive miles accrued. Copies of service records accompanying the car list several services including 2017 with 72,270 miles, Pacific Power Motorsports replaced the clutch, pressure plate and release bearing, installed a new rear crankshaft main seal, new alternator and tensioner, new clutch master and slave cylinders, and installed a new Porsche spoiler activation transmission. In 2019 services included anti-lock brake system sensor harness repair, new steering rack bellows, new front lower control arm bushings, and wiper blades. In 2023 with 75,000 miles, Porsche Rocklin serviced the car totaling over $15,000 including a four-wheel alignment, oil and filter change, rear spoiler and high mount brake light replaced, replacing the inner axle boots, a new transmission cooling duct, a new battery, a new oil level sensor, new rear hood struts, new crankshaft pulley seal, valve cover gaskets, engine timing cover gasket, and brakes checked. In preparation for consignment, the shifter bushing was replaced.

Current Condition

Today, this Porsche presents in excellent condition. The finish has been metered with a digital paint meter, returning single digits on all metal body panels with the exception of the front hood which was repainted for cosmetic reasons to remedy road chips. The black finish is quite nice overall, and the body is in excellent condition including factory door, trunk, and hood gaps. The unique Targa roof design is smoothly integrated into the body lines with excellent factory fit. Proper fit is also noted along the front and rear bumpers. Cosmetic finishes include excellent lenses, correct trim, and factory correct branded glass. The car currently wears a set of 18” charcoal grey OZ racing wheels in excellent condition wearing a set of Sumitomo 225/40 ZR18 front and 265/35 ZR18 rear tires. The original Porsche wheels are included with the car.

The original black leather interior is in excellent condition, reflective of enthusiast care under two owners. The heated leather seats and other interior materials are very nicely preserved throughout the cabin. The center console features the original CD player and radio while the desirable 6-speed gear shift offers a legendary hallmark of Porsche performance cars. The dashboard, instruments, and center console are all in excellent condition including the various switches and controls. The retractable sunshade and inner Targa liner, sun visors, and carpeting also offer excellent visual presentation. The overall fit and finish of the interior is cohesive and well presented, exhibiting consistent finishes reflective of the indicated miles. The AC system is functional, and the blower fans operate on various settings although the air does not currently blow cold. The unique Targa roof is in excellent visual condition; however, the sunshade will need servicing to operate smoothly per 2023 service notation on the invoice from Rocklin Porsche.

The engine compartment and trunk are both unmodified and visually consistent with the miles indicated. The engine is correct and properly maintained offering more torque and power than early 993 motors. The front trunk retains the original materials and factory finishes including the collapsible spare tire, proper black molded components, factory treated metal parts, and correct hardware.

The car starts instantly, and the clutch and gearbox work very well together. The motor provides wonderful induction sounds and the performance is robust, even by modern standards. The suspension retains the much lauded 911 character with easily modulated brakes on a firm pedal benefiting from the slightly lowered performance stance. The chassis is composed, tight, and authentic, showing no evidence of structural compromise when inspecting the underside. This is an excellent opportunity to acquire a well maintained and handsomely optioned example of one of Porsche’s most desirable cars.

Included with This Porsche

This 993 Targa is accompanied by four original Porsche wheels with Continental tires, a factory air compressor, two sets of keys, owner’s manual set and leather case, jumper cables, 993 service manual, and copies of service invoices.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608