Rare Relic: 1994 Porsche 968 Cabriolet 6-Speed – SOLD!
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October 21, 2023, Update – We confirmed the seller of this “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.
September 30, 2023 Update – The seller of this 1994 Porsche 968 we first spotted in early September just replaced their expiring ad. In it, they lowered their asking price from $24,800 to just $24,000.
It’s hard to believe today, but in the early 1990s, German automobile manufacturer Porsche was on the verge of bankruptcy. Relying on three brands (911, 928, and 968) featuring updates of cars originally designed decades earlier, potential buyers found the cars a bit dated at the time. Combine that with a strong Deutsch Mark and increased Japanese competition, and Porsche was not competitive then.
The hardest hit of the three brands was the “entry-level” Porsche 968. Launched in 1991, the 968 was the latest evolution of the 924/944 inline-four-powered sports car originally launched in 1976. While the 968 was a good-looking and more powerful update of the 924/944, the $40K-plus price tag was simply uncompetitive against Japanese competitors such as the Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo and the Toyota Supra of the period. Consequently, Porsche managed to sell only 2,248 Cabriolet versions during the 968’s short 1991 through 1995 production run. Rarity raises prices, so prices for 6-speed Cabriolet versions continue to rise.
Our latest example is this Guards Red over Tan 1994 Porsche 968 Cabriolet for sale, first spotted on Craigslist in August 2023 in San Jose, California. Not only does this three-owner California car feature only 64K original miles, but it also sports the highly desirable six-speed manual transmission.
Last offered for $24,000 (the original ask was $24,800), Classic.com, the analytics and search engine for the collector car market, confirms the ask is in line with this guide’s six-month rolling results trend for similar 968 6-Speed Cabriolet models. By clicking on the green dots in the graph below, you can get a sense of what comparable examples sold for recently:
The 1994 Porsche 968 Cabriolet is a classic sports car that was part of Porsche’s lineup in the 1990s. It is renowned for its distinctive design, balanced performance, and fun-to-drive experience. The Porsche 968 Cabriolet featured a sleek, timeless design, smooth lines, and a low-slung profile. It retained the classic Porsche 944 design elements but with modern updates. The Cabriolet variant came with a power-operated convertible soft top, which could be raised or lowered at the touch of a button. When lowered, it gave the car a sporty and open-air appearance.
The interior of the 1994 Porsche 968 Cabriolet was designed to provide a comfortable and driver-focused experience. It features leather seats for added luxury and support. The dashboard was well-organized and driver-centric, with clear gauges and controls for easy access and visibility. Standard features included power windows, air conditioning, a high-quality sound system, and power-adjustable seats.
A 3.0-liter, inline-four-cylinder engine powered the Porsche 968 Cabriolet. This engine was equipped with Porsche’s VarioCam variable valve timing technology, producing approximately 236 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. It typically came with a 6-speed manual transmission, although a 4-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission was available as an option. With the manual transmission, the 968 Cabriolet could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.5 seconds, which was quite impressive for its time. Porsche is known for its exceptional handling, and the 968 Cabriolet was no exception. It featured a well-balanced rear-wheel-drive layout, a sport-tuned suspension, and precise steering, making it a joy to drive on winding roads.
The 1994 Porsche 968 Cabriolet was equipped with standard safety features for its era, including dual front airbags, anti-lock brakes, and a sturdy chassis construction.
The 968 Cabriolet was produced in relatively limited numbers compared to other Porsche models, adding to its exclusivity and collector’s appeal. Today, well-maintained 1994 Porsche 968 Cabriolets are considered collectible classics, sought after by enthusiasts and collectors for their unique blend of performance and style. The 1994 Porsche 968 Cabriolet represents a beautiful blend of classic Porsche design, open-top driving pleasure, and impressive performance. Its rarity and timeless appeal continue to make it a desirable choice for those looking for a vintage sports car experience.
The Motorweek Retro Review YouTube Channel provides this 1992 vintage review of the then-new Porsche 968:
Featuring only 64K original miles and the classic Porsche color combination of Guards Red over a tan leather interior, this 1994 Porsche 968 Cabriolet features the more desirable 6-speed manual transmission that adds to the car’s enjoyment.
If you are serious about buying this 968 Cabriolet, you can start the conversation by using the contact information provided by the seller in their Craigslist ad. When you connect, please mention that you saw their rare Porsche featured here on GuysWithRides.com. Good luck with the purchase!
Here’s the seller’s description:
California car.
classic Porsche 968 is garage-kept, with a 6-speed manual transmission,
and has only 63,000 original miles!
It is in excellent mechanical condition.
Drives like it’s brand new. Very dependable, with no mechanical issues, and all maintenance records. These are getting harder and harder to find. Only 1447 total were imported to the United States throughout its short 3-year lifespan (1992-1995), they are very collectible cars that will and have risen in value.
It has a unique 3.0l 4 cylinder.
The air conditioning works perfectly.
-Power windows
-Power convertible top
-Power steering
-CD changer
Please only serious buyers.“
Show or go: What would you do with this 1994 Porsche 968 Cabriolet for sale? Please comment below and let us know!
… and who’s on the hook for the “non op” back fees?
Only in California. We did not even know this was even a thing.
I would drive it like its on fire:). Very cool ride thru the 152 outside of San Jose. I’m surprised it hasn’t moved. I”m an MGB guy otherwise I’d crossover to the German side in a. minute. That said, I’d want to know what occurred during the “non op” time.