The third and final evolution in a model series which began with 1976's Porsche 924, the 968 represented a remarkable advance in an already extremely well-developed platform. With its production relocated to Porsche’s fabled Zuffenhausen facililty, the 968 was redesigned to meld Porsche-distinctive styling cues from the 959, 911 and 928 in an assertive new body style. (Porsche in fact stated that fully 80% of the car was new.)
In coupe form the 968 represented the most balanced chassis of any Porsche, and arguably of any production car in the world. It had the familiar 50/50 weight distribution of the 944, but with yet more power than its predecessor, the 1991 944S2. The 968's 3.0 liter engine produced 240 bhp DIN @ 6,200 rpm and 225 ft-lbs of torque @ 4,100 rpm, which made it the world's most powerful normally aspirated 4-cylinder production automobile. This power (up from 208 hp in the S2), was delivered in part by a new 'Variocam' system, which used a camshaft chain drive with an adjustable tensioner to provide up to 15º of variable intake valve timing. This resulted in greater horsepower. lower emissions and an impressively wide power band. A newly optimized induction system and dual mass flywheel rounded out the drivetrain enhancements.
Styling Changes included purposeful front fenders, a hood shape in the Porsche family tradition, 959-like aero mirrors, five-spoke Turbo design wheels, integral polyurethane side skirts, flush rear quarter glass, body color door handles and a re-contoured rear with integral bumper which eliminated the need for the 944S2 underbody spoiler. New-design projector-type headlights employed a variable focal point system which increased light output at the sides by more than 30 percent. Even the engine compartment was redesigned, including matching aluminum finishes on the cam cover, injector cover and intake manifold, careful routing of all hoses and electrical wiring, as well as a storage compartment for service gloves and rag.
The 968 offered two body types, coupe and convertible, and two different transmission types (The principal variants are shown below: click for larger images). The standard choice was a new 6-speed manual, the other a Tiptronic transmission. On the coupe, an optional M030 sport chassis with 17-inch wheels, stiffer suspension and larger brakes provided a significant performance upgrade for the hard-core enthusiast. Production changes through the life of the 968 were very minor: most buyers have found a 968 from any year of production to make a fine investment.
