Even though the Porsche 911 was saved from extinction in 1981, it was the best part of the seven years before the heavily revised 911, codenamed 964 was launched. Despite the looking like a more modern and slightly more aerodynamic version of the old car, the 964 was actually 85 percent new. The roof section, doors and bonnet were retained from the old car, but the whole floorpan had been redesigned, as had the rear section of the car and the newly sculpted aerodynamics nose and tail sections, in place of conventional bumpers. Inside, the 964 was also newly re-designed, although it remained true to the classic 911 styling heritage.
The redesigned floorpan was a major expense but necessary to accept the new coil sprung suspension and to accommodate the productionised version of the 959’s four wheel drive transmission. The first of the 964 series to be announced was the Carrera 4, a sort of down to earth 959. Although it lacked turbochargers the engine was bigger (3.6 liters, up from 3.2) and it developed 250 bhp.
The Carrera’s new found stability and all weather confidence transformed the 911’s reputation. The previous model was little changed from the original 911 launched in 1962, and was a tricky car to drive. The Carrera 4 offered thrills without overwhelming risk. In pure performance terms, the car also offered some truly fabulous pace.
Well said - I own a 1989 C4 - it has been perfect extra car to own, with little maintenance or attention. I had it on a track this year, and that was the thrill of a lifetime.
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