INTRODUCTION

The 1997 Porsche 911 represents a pivotal moment in the model’s history. Known internally as the 993 generation, it was the last air-cooled 911, marking the end of an era for Porsche enthusiasts. Revered for its refined handling, bulletproof engine, and timeless styling, the 993-generation 911—particularly the 1997 model—is widely considered one of the finest and most collectible 911s ever made.

HISTORY & ORIGINS

The Porsche 911 has been in continuous production since 1964, evolving over decades while preserving its signature rear-engine design and iconic silhouette. The 993 generation launched in 1994 and ran through 1998. It was the final 911 to use the air-cooled flat-six engine, a hallmark of Porsche engineering. The 1997 model year saw continued refinement and performance enhancements, and it’s often regarded as the most “mature” air-cooled 911 in terms of both design and drivability.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

The 1997 Porsche 911 (993) featured several powertrain configurations across its trims:

• Carrera / Carrera 4 (RWD/AWD):

  • 3.6L air-cooled flat-6

  • 282 horsepower, 250 lb-ft of torque

  • 0–60 mph in ~5.2 seconds (manual)

• Carrera S / 4S:

  • Same engine as base Carrera

  • Wider Turbo-style body and unique styling cues

• 911 Turbo:

  • Twin-turbocharged 3.6L flat-6

  • 408 horsepower, AWD

  • 0–60 mph in ~4.0 seconds

• 911 Turbo S (very rare in 1997):

  • 424 horsepower, upgraded styling and performance parts

All versions featured either:

• 6-speed manual transmission (standard)

• 4-speed Tiptronic automatic (optional on Carrera models)

DESIGN & FEATURES

The 993 design retained the classic 911 shape but introduced smoother bumpers, wider hips (on S and Turbo models), and modern lighting:

• Integrated bumpers with rounded headlights

• Optional 18-inch Turbo Twist wheels

• Optional sunroof, rear wiper, and spoilers

• Available in coupe, Targa (with retractable glass roof), and Cabriolet (convertible) variants

Interior features:

• High-quality leather trim, real wood or aluminum inlays

• Power-adjustable seats, optional heated

• Dual airbags and analog gauges with classic Porsche layout

• Available CD changer, A/C, cruise control, and on-board computer

TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS

The 1997 911 (993) was available in the following configurations:

1. Carrera Coupe / Cabriolet – Rear-wheel drive

2. Carrera 4 Coupe / Cabriolet – All-wheel drive

3. Carrera S – Wide body, RWD, unique rear deck and bumpers

4. Carrera 4S – Wide body + AWD

5. Targa – Retractable glass roof, RWD

6. 911 Turbo – Twin-turbocharged AWD, aggressive styling

7. 911 Turbo S – Limited edition, higher output, luxury and performance upgrades

Each variant offered a different blend of performance, luxury, and aesthetics, making the 993 lineup one of the most diverse in 911 history.

SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY

Safety features included:

• Dual airbags (driver and passenger)

• ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

• All-wheel-drive models (Carrera 4 and Turbo) for improved traction

• Reinforced chassis and side-impact beams

Tech features (for the era):

• Tiptronic transmission with steering-wheel controls (on select trims)

• Optional on-board trip computer

• Factory alarm and immobilizer

• Premium Bose or Blaupunkt sound systems

FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY

EPA-estimated fuel economy for 1997 Porsche 911s:

• Carrera (manual): ~16 MPG city / 24 MPG highway

• Turbo: ~14 MPG city / 21 MPG highway

• Tiptronic models: Slightly lower due to automatic transmission

Fuel tank capacity: 19.4 gallons, offering a range of 300–400 miles depending on driving style.

MARKET COMPARISON

In 1997, the Porsche 911 993 competed with:

• Chevrolet Corvette C5 – Cheaper, faster in straight lines, less refined

• BMW M3 E36 – More practical, sportier handling but lower prestige

• Acura NSX – Mid-engine precision, less character and less rawness

• Ferrari F355 – More exotic, far higher running costs

The 993 stood out for its build quality, reliability, and emotional connection with drivers, especially enthusiasts of air-cooled performance.

PRICING

• Original MSRP (1997):

  • Carrera: ~$63,000

  • Carrera S/4S: ~$70,000–$75,000

  • Turbo: ~$105,000

  • Turbo S: ~$150,000+

• Current Market Value (2025):

  • Carrera models: ~$70,000–$110,000 depending on mileage and condition

  • Carrera S / 4S: ~$110,000–$160,000

  • Targa / Cabriolet: ~$80,000–$130,000

  • 911 Turbo: ~$175,000–$225,000

  • 911 Turbo S: $300,000+ (very rare, highly collectible)

NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES

• Regarded as one of the best-handling 911s ever by Car and Driver and Road & Track

• Often referred to as the “ultimate air-cooled 911”

• Increasingly collectible, especially in Turbo and S variants

• High rankings in long-term reliability and owner satisfaction

• Featured on numerous “Best Cars of the ’90s” lists