Page 1 of 1 Since the mid-1960s, the 911 was the most important model in the Porsche line-up, Attempts to replace the rear-engined machine with the V8-powered 928 did not lessen the appeal of the 911 to customers. This prompted the German manufacturer to develop a substantially revised version during the late 1980s. Internally dubbed the Type 964 and claimed to be 85% new, it was still referred to as the 911 Carrera and introduced late in 1989.
While the 911 had gradually evolved over the years, with the introduction of the 964 the first fundamental changes to the original design were carried through. The front suspension received the most attention, which saw the original torsion-bar layout replaced by McPherson struts and lower wishbones. At the rear, the familiar semi-trailing arms were retained although the torsion bars at this end were also replaced by coil springs.
The air-cooled flat-six engine was also substantially modified and enlarged to displace 3.6 litres. The all-aluminium, twin-spark unit produced 250 hp. In standard trim, it was mated to Porsche's five-speed manual gearbox. For the first time, the 'Tiptronic' four-speed automatic was also offered as an option. Another brand-new option was the all-wheel drive system first used on the 959 supercar. The four-wheel drive models were referred to as the Carrera 4.
While still undeniably a 911, the Porsche 964 received a smoother, more modern appearance. The most notable change was the integration of the front and rear bumpers into the bodywork. As with the outgoing model, the new 911 was available as a Coupe, Cabriolet, Targa and Speedster versions. Also new to the Type 964 were modern amenities like power steering and anti-lock brakes, both of which were fitted as standard.
Production of the new model started late in 1989 and the first cars were delivered with the four-wheel drive system fitted as standard. The Carrera 2 model was later added to the line-up. During the following years a Turbo and high-performance, competition inspired Carrera RS versions also joined the range. The 964 was also the first 911 used for the Carrera Cup that runs through to this day, while an RSR version was offered for international racing.
Porsche's renewed commitment to the 911 range was underlined by the fact that a successor was already introduced in 1995. By that time just over 62,000 examples of all 964 variants had been produced. Page 1 of 1
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911 Carrera 2 Cabriolet
Since the mid-1960s, the 911 was the most important model in the Porsche line-up, Attempts to replace the rear-engined machine with the V8-powered 928 did not lessen the appeal of the 911 to customers. This prompted the German manufacturer to develop a substantially revised version during the late 1980s. Internally dubbed the Type 964 and claimed to be 85% new, it was still referred to as the 911 Carrera and introduced late in 1989.