The Difference between Air-Cooled Porsche 911 Generations

Here is a closer look at each air-cooled Porsche generation:

Porsche 911 (1963-1973)

The classic Porsche 911 is arguably the most famous and recognizable Porsche model of all time. Designed by Ferdinand “Butzi” Alexander Porsche, the Porsche 911 was designed to be the successor of the 356 model, the company’s first car. The 911 was powered by a six-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produced between 130 and 350 horsepower. Larger and more powerful than its predecessor, there was no doubt that the original Porsche 911 exceeded all expectations and set the Porsche standard for future models.


Later in the 1960s and 1970s, the 911 was produced in several different variations, including coupes, convertibles, and Targas, which featured a removable roof panel.

Porsche 930 (1975 - 1989)

The Porsche 930, or the 911 "Widowmaker". Source: Motofutura

The Porsche 930, also known as the 911 Turbo, was one of the most thrilling yet dangerous Porsche cars during its run. It featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six engine that produced up to a whopping 300 horsepower and 276 lb-ft of torque. The 930 was also known for its distinctive wide body design, which allowed for wider wheels and tires to improve handling and traction. The 930’s raw power and performance made it stand out amongst other sports cars, but there were consequences driving it. Due to its acceleration and handling, it was notorious for giving its driver a difficult and dangerous (or pumped up) driving experience, earning the Porsche 930 its infamous nickname, the “Widowmaker”. Despite the possible dangers of its performance, the Porsche 930 still remains a beloved classic among Porsche enthusiasts and collectors and thrill-seeking drivers.

Porsche 964 (1989-1994)

The Porsche 964 was introduced in 1989 and is considered the first major update to the 911 1963 release. The 964 featured a more stylish and sustainable design, improved suspension and braking systems, and of course a more powerful 3.6 liter flat engine that delivered 250 hp. Gone are the extruded impact bumpers with bellows, which have been redesigned with a more elegant solution. The 964 was also the first 911 to be offered with all-wheel drive, which greatly enhanced its handling and performance. 


The 964 was also produced in several different variations, including the Carrera 2 and Carrera 4, which were available as coupes, convertibles, and Targas. The 964 was also available with a wide range of performance upgrades, including the RS and Turbo models, which featured even more power and performance.

Porsche 993 (1993-1998)

The Porsche 993 was the final air-cooled Porsche before its discontinuation in 1998. According to Porsche, the 993 model was designed from scratch. It was designed to feature a more streamlined design, improved aerodynamics, and a new, more powerful engine. The 993 was also the first 911 to feature an all-aluminum chassis, which made it lighter and even faster than its predecessors.
The 993 was produced in several different variations, including the Carrera, Carrera 4, Turbo, and GT2. The 993 Turbo was particularly noteworthy, as it featured a twin-turbocharged engine that produced 408 horsepower, making it one of the fastest production cars of its time.

 

A line of various Porsche 911s ready for Luftgekühlt 5. Source: Motofutura

Each air-cooled Porsche generation is unique and offers something different to enthusiasts and collectors alike. The Porsche 356, 911, 964, and 993 all have their own special place in automotive history, and their popularity is a testament to their design, engineering, and performance. Over 60 years, these air-cooled Porsches have become iconic vehicles that are still sought after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.