Positioning:
The Porsche 964 represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of the iconic 911, bridging classic design with modern performance and technology. It's positioned as a desirable collector's car and a capable grand tourer.
Competitors:
Competed against high-performance sports cars of its era, including Ferrari 348, Chevrolet Corvette C4 ZR-1, and Lotus Esprit Turbo.
Design Philosophy:
Maintained the traditional Porsche rear-engine layout and silhouette while introducing significant aerodynamic improvements and modernized interior.
Technological Advancements:
Introduction of the new 3.6-liter M64 engine, coil springs replacing torsion bars, optional AWD (Carrera 4), and ABS.
Engine:
Complete engine diagnostics, repair, disassembly, and assembly, including cooling system, lubrication, fuel injection, ignition, and emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual and Tiptronic transmission systems: removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, adjustments, and troubleshooting.
Drivetrain:
All-wheel drive system (if applicable), differential, axles, and driveshafts.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, power steering system, and alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Brake system components (hydraulic and mechanical), ABS, brake fluid, calipers, rotors, pads, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instruments, control modules, diagnostics, and troubleshooting.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, glass, seals, and chassis repair.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, diagnosis, and repair.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank, and evaporative emissions control.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, and exhaust pipes.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, and lubrication points.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Adjustments:
Precise adjustment procedures for engine timing, valve clearance, idle speed, and other critical parameters.
Component Replacement:
Guided replacement of all major and minor vehicle components.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of required special service tools (SSTs).
Depth:
Comprehensive 'bumper-to-bumper' coverage, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagrams And Photos:
Abundant pictorial diagrams, exploded views, detailed drawings, and photographs guiding through repair procedures.
Torque Values:
Detailed torque specifications for all fasteners and critical assembly points.
Wear Limits:
Essential wear limits for various components to ensure proper function and longevity.
Precautions And Warnings:
Inclusion of special notes, important points, precautions, DANGER, CAUTION, and NOTE remarks for safe operation and to prevent damage.
Oil Change:
Typically every 15,000 km (9,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first, though the manual will provide precise Porsche recommendations.
Major Service:
Detailed major service intervals for spark plugs, air filters, fuel filters, and belt checks will be outlined in the manual.
Engine Oil:
Specific Porsche-approved synthetic engine oils (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 or equivalent) will be detailed, along with capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid is typically recommended. Manual will specify exact type and change interval.
Transmission Fluid:
Specific gear oil for the manual transaxle and ATF for the Tiptronic will be listed. Capacities will be provided.
Coolant:
Although primarily air-cooled, some components (like oil coolers) may use coolant or specific hydraulic fluids. Manual to specify.
Common Wear Items:
Valve stem seals, oil leaks (especially from the rear main seal and oil cooler lines), cam chain tensioners (early hydraulic type), and driveshaft flex joints (CV boots).
Electrical Gremlins:
Can experience intermittent electrical issues due to age, particularly with window regulators, alarm systems, and certain sensor connections.
Emphasis:
The manual emphasizes respecting service schedules and addressing minor issues promptly to prevent major failures.
Legacy:
The 964 continues the legacy of the Porsche 911, a lineage tracing back to the 1960s, representing continuous refinement of a legendary sports car formula.
Transition From 930:
Replaced the 930 (911 Turbo) and 911 Carrera (930/965), introducing significant chassis and powertrain updates.
Variations:
Offered in Carrera 2 (RWD), Carrera 4 (AWD), Targa, Cabriolet, and Turbo body styles, with the Turbo version (965) featuring a unique development.
Production Years:
1989-1994
Manufacturing Location:
Zuffenhausen, Stuttgart, Germany