Positioning:
The Porsche 968 was the final evolution of the front-engined transaxle sports car lineage, positioned as a more accessible yet still exclusive sports GT, bridging the gap between the Boxster and 911.
Competitors:
Competed with cars like the Chevrolet Corvette C4, Toyota Supra Mk IV, Nissan 300ZX Z32, and to some extent, higher-performance variants of European coupes like the BMW 840i and Mercedes-Benz SL.
Powertrain:
Unique 3.0L inline-four with VarioCam and often paired with the transaxle layout for balanced weight distribution.
Styling:
Derived from the 944 S2 and 959 supercar, featuring distinctive pop-up headlights and aerodynamic bodywork.
Manual Utility:
Essential for owners and independent mechanics to maintain the specific engineering and technology of this niche Porsche model.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, tuning, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic 2.10), emissions control
Transmission:
Manual (G92.30) and Tiptronic (A24.10) transmission removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, and adjustment; clutch system
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, CV joints, differential, axle shafts
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, column, components
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, ABS (Bosch ABS 2S), hydraulic components, rotor/pad specifications, bleeding procedures
Electrical:
Complete electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, component testing, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, ignition system, fuel pump, ABS controller
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, seals, interior trim, seat removal, convertible top mechanism (for Cabriolet)
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, pump, lines, injectors, fuel pressure testing
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning, fluid checks and changes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trees, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for various systems
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation
Adjustment:
Engine timing, idle speed, clutch engagement, parking brake, headlight aim
Diagnosis:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-I for this era), component testing, sensor readings
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized Porsche tools required for certain procedures
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance, pressure readings
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated Inline-4 (M44 series)
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2990 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
104.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valve Train:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, VarioCam variable valve timing
Horsepower:
237 hp @ 6200 rpm (for North America)
Torque:
225 lb-ft (305 Nm) @ 4800 rpm (for North America)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic 2.10 Engine Management System, Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized system with thermostatically controlled fan
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific oil type.
Timing Belt:
Critical replacement every 30,000 miles or 3 years due to interference engine design. (This is a very common failure point if neglected).
Spark Plugs:
Recommended replacement at 30,000 mile intervals. Use correct NGK or equivalent plugs.
Engine Oil:
API SG, ACEA A2/B2, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 is often recommended. Check manual for precise specification. Capacity approx. 7.5 liters.
Transmission Fluid:
Manual: Gear oil, SAE 75W-90 API GL-4. Tiptronic: ATF Dexron III or equivalent. Check manual for exact specs and capacities.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1, depending on specific requirements and ABS system. Check manual for exact specification.
Coolant:
Porsche approved coolant concentrate (Glysantin G48 or equivalent), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Timing Belt:
High risk of failure if not replaced on schedule, leading to catastrophic engine damage. Belt tensioner can also be a failure point.
Rear Main Seal:
Common leak point where engine meets transmission due to age and stress.
Plastic Fuel Rails:
Can become brittle and crack over time, leading to fuel leaks.
Variocam Solenoid:
Can fail, leading to poor performance and Check Engine Light.
Window Regulators:
Can be a weak point, leading to windows not operating correctly.
Heritage:
Porsche has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, performance, and racing heritage since its founding in 1931.
Predecessor:
Direct successor to the Porsche 944, which itself evolved from the 924.
Design Inspiration:
Shared design cues and platform elements with the 944, with significant updates and a distinctive front end influenced by the 959.
Production Years:
1991-1995
Manufacturing Location:
Neckarsulm, Germany (at the former NSU plant)
Total Production Numbers:
Approximately 14,963 units worldwide across all variants.