Porsche 968 Sport

“Let’s just put it firmly on record that the 968 was a truly great driver’s car… When pressed really hard on an unknown road, the 968 was a brilliant machine, a real thoroughbred able to humiliate upstarts that appeared better on paper… It was a combination of chassis development, coupled with perfectly attuned engine characteristics and good gearing that did the trick. The 968 felt balanced because it was exactly that, making for one of those rare cars that a good driver feels he can do anything with. It was an outstanding machine in that respect.” Racing driver and journalist, Tony Dron, 2008.

Sold between 1992 and 1995, the Porsche 968 was the ultimate development of the highly rated 944 and was powered by an updated version of the 944’s straight-four engine, now displacing 3-litres and producing 240bhp, sufficient for a 0 – 60mph time of 6 seconds and a top speed of 153mph. Features included a new VarioRam variable valve timing system, optimised induction and exhaust systems, a dual-mass flywheel and updated engine management electronics among other more revisions. A new 6-speed manual transmission replaced the old 5-speed box and Porsche's dual-mode Tiptronic semi-automatic box became an available option. Brembo brakes ensured that stopping power was up to the task.

Supplied new by Lancaster Porsche of Cambridge in February 1995, this particular 968 Sport will be well known to readers of ‘911 and Porsche World’ as it was regularly featured in the magazine from 2005 to 2008 while various upgrades were carried out. Finished in Midnight Blue with a black leather interior it has covered some 135,000 miles but had an engine rebuild about 20,000 miles ago when the cylinder head was also polished and gas flowed and the ECU was remapped. Tuned on a rolling road it now develops 251bhp and 240lb/ft of torque.

Other upgrades include MO30 brakes and suspension with Koni adjustable shock absorbers, stainless steel exhaust, special alloy wheels, new clutch and electric heated sports seats. Said to be in excellent condition throughout and to drive superbly, it has a full service history and was last serviced in August 2011. It comes with all its original handbooks and is MOTd until May 2012. If you have never driven one of these excellent machines you are in for a real treat when you get behind the wheel of this one.