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Porsche 993
New Decade, New 911
It's hard to believe that the 993-generation 911 was the first all-new model since 1963. The shape had gently evolved over the years - the first cars' sleek bumpers giving way to the USA-necessitated 'Impact Bumpers', then the arrival of the 1980s SC and Carrera models, the addition of the Tea Tray spoiler, and then the return to sleek bumpers for the 964-generation. All the models shared the same roof, and very similar dimensions and panels. But all this was to change, as Porsche set about blowing away the cobwebs from the 911 with the all-new 993.
Launch - With a Waiting List
The 993 was unveiled in early 1994, and as soon as Porsche had started to build them, buyers were beating a path to the dealerships' doors. This was a good sign - Porsche was on its way back around, after poor sales from the lacklustre 968 and 964 models. The press at the time gave the car gushing reports, and rejoiced in the fact that Porsche had implemented its brief for the new family member perfectly - improvement in the three categories of engine, styling and handling.
The styling was the car's tour-de-force - the staid looks of the 964 giving away to a smooth, Coke-bottle hipped form - but still pure 911. The upright wings and headlamps had been relaxed and canted backwards by a few degrees, giving the car a breath-taking modern look. The new alloy wheels, from the 968 range, complimented this, and to finish the exterior revamp, a new set of fresh colours was drawn up. Small details stood out - the aerodynamic mirrors, the teardrop exhausts and the wide haunches all combined to ensure that the 993 was the best-looking 911 ever.
Under the skin, the 3.6 litre flat six engine retained its water-cooling (much to the delight of the purists), but with a 10% power increase - peak power was now up to 272 BHP. The new engine featured lavish use of exotic metals, such as magnesium for the fan housing, and a strengthened camshaft along with lighter pistons. A sophisticated Bosch ignition system was employed to keep the engine running as sweet as intended.
