Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet

The Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet (964) stands as a true legend — the first all-wheel-drive model in the 911 family, featuring a system derived directly from the iconic Porsche 959.

The Porsche 911 with the 964 chassis code is among the most frequently restomod-ed classic cars in the market today. Its air-cooled engine, distinctive round headlights, and exceptional driving agility make it one of the most beloved generations in the 911 lineage. The example seen here, however, remains in its original, untouched form — preserved so beautifully that it looks as if it has traveled through time.

To understand the significance of the 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet (964), we must go back to 1988 — the year Porsche celebrated the 25th anniversary of the 911. To mark the milestone, Porsche introduced its first-ever all-wheel-drive 911, utilizing a drivetrain technology derived from the legendary Porsche 959. This innovation made the 964 more approachable and desirable to a wider audience of drivers.

The main reason Porsche decided to equip the 964 with an all-wheel-drive system was to enhance traction and stability, offering better control on both wet and dry surfaces. The 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet (964) shares very few components with its predecessor, the G-Series, as Porsche developed 85% of its parts anew. Despite this, it retained the classic silhouette that defined earlier generations, while adding the signature soft-top convertible roof that gives it timeless elegance.

While the 964 bears strong visual resemblance to the G-Series, its aerodynamics were vastly improved. The redesigned front and rear sections are more rounded, and the automatic retractable rear spoiler not only enhances performance but also contributes to the car’s refined appearance.

The 911 Carrera 4 was the first 911 to feature electronically controlled all-wheel drive, distributing 31% of power to the front wheels and 69% to the rear via a 5-speed manual transmission. Power comes from a 3.6-liter air-cooled flat-six engine producing 250 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 310 Nm of torque at 4,800 rpm. This setup allows the car to sprint from 0–96 km/h in 5.7 seconds before reaching a top speed of 260 km/h.

The 964’s design remains instantly recognizable — the iconic round headlights, the full-width red taillight strip with the Porsche logo, the rear decklid with its automatic spoiler, red rear indicators, and body-colored mirrors all contribute to its unmistakable charm. The model also introduced significant upgrades over its predecessor, including ABS brakes, power steering, and airbags — innovations that brought the 911 into the modern era.

With total production reaching 74,008 units, the Porsche 911 (964) has rightfully earned its place as one of the most celebrated models in Porsche history. For enthusiasts seeking a classic sports car that embodies Porsche’s engineering legacy and timeless design, the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet (964) remains an iconic and desirable masterpiece.