Positioning:
The Porsche 968 represented Porsche's evolution of the transaxle sports car lineage, blending the performance of the 944 with a more refined driving experience and updated styling. It was positioned as a more accessible yet still potent Porsche sports car, competing with models like the Chevrolet Corvette, Nissan 300ZX, and Toyota Supra of its era.
Competitors:
Chevrolet Corvette (C4), Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk3/Mk4), Lotus Esprit
Features:
4.0L inline-four engine with VarioCam, transaxle layout for optimal weight distribution, advanced aerodynamics, refined interior compared to predecessors, available Tiptronic automatic transmission.
Engine Type:
The 968 is unique for its inline-four engine, a departure from the flat-sixes of the 911, but engineered with Porsche's signature precision and performance focus.
Powertrain:
Engine (Maintenance, Control System, Fuel Service Specs, Emission Control, Intake/Exhaust/Cooling, Lube, Ignition/Starting/Charging), Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension
Chassis:
Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering
Body Electrical Comfort:
Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass/Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/Door, Exterior & Interior, Electrical Systems, Multiplex/CAN Communication
Body And Trim:
Exterior body panels, interior trim components, door mechanisms, glass replacement, sealing.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system diagnosis, service, and repair.
General Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Engine Repair:
Engine mechanical repairs, control system diagnostics, fuel system servicing, cooling system, lubrication, ignition, starting, charging system repairs
Transmission Repair:
Automatic and manual transmission service, repair, and overhaul
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Suspension component diagnosis and replacement, steering system service, brake system maintenance and repair, parking brake adjustments
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting of electrical components, lighting, accessories, instrument cluster, SRS system, immobilizer, multiplex communication
Diagnostics:
Engine management system diagnostics, electrical system fault finding, mechanical component testing.
Specifications Tables:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, engine timing marks, valve clearances, fluid capacities, electrical component data.
Depth:
Comprehensive (Detailed step-by-step instructions for diagnostics, repair, and replacement of virtually all vehicle components)
Troubleshooting:
Includes diagnostic procedures, fault codes (where applicable for OBD-I), and step-by-step troubleshooting guides for various systems.
Engine Code:
M44.43 (for 3.0L and later variants)
Configuration:
Inline-four, front-mounted, longitudinal
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2990 cc)
Horsepower:
236 hp @ 6200 rpm (US Spec), 240 PS (European Spec)
Torque:
225 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (US Spec), 228 lb-ft (European Spec)
Induction:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Features:
VarioCam (Variable Valve Timing), Knock Sensor Control, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I)
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system (where applicable per market).
Type:
Tiptronic 4-Speed Automatic (with steering wheel mounted controls)
Layout:
Transaxle (Transmission and Differential integrated at the rear axle)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Porsche spec. ATF Dextron II or equivalent (check specific manual for exact recommendation, e.g., G 001 000 001)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Porsche ATF LT 71141 or equivalent
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for precise interval based on driving conditions)
Timing Belt:
Crucial replacement interval, typically around 50,000 miles or 5 years. Failure can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
Spark Plugs:
Check and replace as needed, typically every 30,000 miles
Engine Oil:
Mobil 1 0W-40 or equivalent synthetic oil meeting Porsche A40 specification (check manual for exact recommendation)
Coolant:
Glysantin G48 (or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant) with a 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid
Common Problems:
Timing belt wear and tensioner issues, fuel pressure regulator failure, fuel pump failure, headliner sagging, CV joint wear, door seal deterioration, window regulator issues, catalytic converter failure.
Maintenance Tips:
Regular inspection of the timing belt system is paramount. Monitor for oil leaks from the crankshaft seal and camshaft seals. Ensure the cooling system is flushed and refilled regularly.
