Finished with the S2 variant of 944, Porsche engineers began working on another set of significant upgrades for the model, as executives were planning, S3. During the development phase, 80% of the 944’s mechanical components were either significantly modified or completely replaced by the engineers, so it was decided to give the new car new name. “S3″ bacame Porsche 968 – the last front-engine watercooled Porsche of 90s.

In addition to the numerous mechanical upgrades, the new model also received significantly evolved styling both inside and out, with a more modern, streamlined look and more standard luxury than on the 944. Manufacturing was moved back to Porsche’s own plant at Zuffenhausen (924 and 944 was produced in Audi’s Neckarsulm factory). It was produced only 3 years, from 1992 to 1995, when Porsche lost faith in front-engined vehicles and got back to only rear-engined 911.

Only one engine was used for 968 – 3L straight 4 cylinder 16 valve power unit, having 240 HP (even more than 944 turbo!), utilising VarioCam technology – variable valve timing system, similar to Honda’s VTEC, introduced 1990. Dual-mass flywheel, revised ECU, upgraded intake and exhaust systems made this engine really attractive not only for street, but for racing usage. We have to mention, that 968 3L was the second largest capacity inline-4 cylinders engine ever used in production car.

6-speed manual gearbox was first used in this model, and tiptronic automatic one was also as a option. VarioCam was first used in 968, later “transplanted” to 993 opposed air-cooled 6 cylinder power unit. Tiptronic was also Porsche’s invention, used for a first time in 964, and for a second – in 968.

Body of 968 was up-to-dated with nice lines, but still the base was the same 924-944, and some extreiour parts (windows, doors), both with 944 face-lifted dash could be used. Nevertheles, front part was heavily modified, so you can’t put it on 944 or 924. From the other side – you can easily tune your 944 with the 968 stop lights, rear bumper and spoiler. Headlights were taken from 928, popping not so ugly as in predecessor, but still frog-eyed.

As 944, 968 could be ordered as coupe and convertible versions. Porsche even made some 15 turbo and turbo RS (racing only) versions, but it was shortly discontinued because of decreased sales. Much of the 968’s luxury-oriented equipment was removed or taken off the options list in 968 Club Sport version – it was more expensive, even without air conditioning, power windows, electrically adjustable seats and stereo equipment. All this had to go because of better performance – less weight with the same engine = faster

4389 cabriolets, of which 2248 to US

Borrowed suspension components from 944 s2 was Brembo 4-piston brake calipers, aluminum semi-trailing arms and aluminum front A-arms, used in a Macpherson strut arrangement.

Wheelbase 94.5 in (2,400 mm)
Length 170.1 in (4,321 mm)
Width 68.3 in (1,735 mm)
Height 50.2 in (1,275 mm)
Curb weight 3,086 lb (1,400 kg)