Market Position:
The Porsche 968 represents the final evolution of the transaxle-based Porsche sports car lineage, a sophisticated and driver-focused grand tourer positioned as a more accessible entry into Porsche ownership compared to the 911.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Chevrolet Corvette (C4), and Ford Mustang Cobra (SN95) in its segment, offering a unique blend of European engineering, handling prowess, and luxurious appointments.
Key Features:
Unique transaxle layout for optimal weight distribution, potent 3.0L 4-cylinder engine with VarioCam, optional Tiptronic automatic transmission, distinctive pop-up headlights, refined interior with premium materials.
Model Positioning:
The 968 was positioned as a premium sports coupe and convertible, offering a unique blend of performance, luxury, and usability.
Coverage Areas:
All aspects of maintenance, repair, diagnostics, and troubleshooting for the 1995 Porsche 968.
Specific Models Covered:
Covers all variants of the 1995 Porsche 968, including Coupe and Cabriolet, with or without Tiptronic transmission.
Page Count:
Approx. 1800 pages (estimated for comprehensive factory documentation)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF), Printable
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Clutch, Transmission (Manual & Tiptronic), Drive Axles, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS), Bodywork, Interior, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams), HVAC, Emissions Control, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II).
Chassis And Body:
Includes procedures for chassis component inspection, repair, and replacement, as well as body panel alignment, repair, and adjustment.
Climate Control:
Detailed information on the HVAC system, including refrigerant handling, component testing, and repair procedures.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled service, disassembly, assembly, repair, adjustment, troubleshooting, diagnostics, component replacement, system checks, torque specifications, tightening sequences, wiring diagrams.
Engine Management Diagnostics:
Detailed procedures for diagnosing engine performance issues, fault code retrieval, and sensor testing using appropriate diagnostic tools.
Electrical System Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive troubleshooting guides and detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical components and circuits.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance tasks to full engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and detailed body repair procedures.
Torque Specs:
Extensive torque specifications for all critical fasteners across all systems.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2990 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
104.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.0:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, VarioCam (Variable Valve Timing)
Engine Designation:
M44/43 (for 1995 model year)
Horsepower:
237 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque:
225 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M5.2 Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (15.8 US Quarts)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts)
Recommended Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 or SAE 5W-40 Synthetic (e.g., Mobil 1, Castrol)
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transaxle
Transmission Type:
Tiptronic Automatic Transaxle (4-Speed)
Transaxle Layout:
Rear-mounted transaxle (engine front, transmission rear) for near 50/50 weight distribution.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Porsche Manual Transmission Fluid (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2.0) or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 75W-90
Tiptronic Transmission Fluid:
Porsche ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) Type J or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon
Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 2.7 Liters (2.9 US Quarts)
Tiptronic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts) for total system
NHTSA Rating:
Not rated under modern NHTSA standards due to age of vehicle.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS - optional on some models).
Passive Features:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners, driver and passenger airbags, reinforced safety cage, side impact protection.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 miles or 24 months.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 36 months.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical maintenance item).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 36 months (check specific plug type recommended).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (e.g., Castrol GTLMA, Pentosin Super DOT 4)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Pentosin CHF 11S or CHF 202
Coolant Type:
Porsche Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., Porsche G40 or G12++ compatible)
Known Issues:
Timing belt tensioner failure, ABS sensor failures, fuel accumulator issues, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, window regulator issues, transaxle mounts degradation.
Brand Heritage:
Porsche, founded in 1931, is renowned for its performance sports cars, motorsport success, and engineering excellence. The 968 builds upon the legacy of front-engined Porsches like the 924 and 944.
Model Evolution:
The 968 is the culmination of the Porsche Type 944 platform, introduced in 1991. It received significant updates over the 944 S2, including a larger engine with VarioCam, revised aerodynamics, updated interior, and improved suspension.
Production Years:
1991-1995
Production Locations:
Stuttgart, Germany
Total Production:
Approximately 19,000 units worldwide.
