WHEN PORSCHE CANADA GRACIOUSLY HANDED ME THE KEYS to a 1994 Guards Red Porsche 968 Cabriolet, I knew I was in for a special experience. The 968 represents the final evolution of Porsche’s front-engined, four-cylinder sportscar lineage, stretching back to the 924 and 944. Produced between 1992 and 1995, the Porsche 968 saw only 11,000 units worldwide, making it a rare gem.
This particular model has an interesting backstory. Porsche Cars Canada bought it from a private seller in Woodbridge to support the launch in 2019 of the Classic Restoration Competition – where Porsche dealerships restore classic models and compete for fame and glory. But more than its history, this Guards Red Cabriolet gave me a firsthand reminder of why Porsche’s legacy is so rich and enduring.
At first glance, the 968 Cabriolet strikes you with its bold Guards Red colour and sleek, low-slung profile. Sliding inside, the interior is pure Porsche – simple, driver-focused, and comfortable. The leather seats are well-bolstered, perfect for both cruising and spirited driving. The low seating position adds to the sporty feel, and contributes to the 968’s low center of gravity, enhancing its excellent handling. The steering wheel ‘window’ is very wide, so the gauges are all visible.
This car features one of my personally favourite upgrades to Porsche classics – the PCCM system – bringing modern connectivity and functionality (eg Apple CarPlay, Android Auto) to the interior without compromising its classic charm. The real magic happens when you start driving the 1994 Porsche 968 Cabriolet.
The retractable headlights and smooth, aerodynamic lines give it a unique presence on the road. As I drove through town, the car attracted an enormous amount of attention – countless stares, thumbsups, and even one guy who chased me down just to say how cool the car looked!
The 3.0-liter inline-four engine – the largest four cylinder of its time – produces 236 horsepower and 225 ft-lb of torque. The sound is deep and bassy at low RPMs, transforming into a smooth and eager tone as you climb through the rev range. It’s no speed demon, but it’s responsive enough, offering just the right amount of performance for any scenario.
The manual transmission and clutch are buttery smooth, making every shift feel precise, easy and a joy to use. With the transmission positioned at the rear, the car maintains a perfect 50:50 weight distribution, giving it incredible balance through corners. Whether you’re cruising on the highway or tackling twisty roads, the 968 feels planted and composed. Driving with the top down amplifies the experience.
The hybrid convertible top – partly electric, partly manual – isn’t as easy to operate as modern Boxsters or 911s (but it’s easier than a Spyder!). Once open, the car becomes even more engaging, connecting you to the road and surroundings in a way that only a convertible can.
The 968 Cabriolet offers a unique Porsche experience. It’s not trying to compete with the 911, nor does it need to. Instead, it carves its own path, blending the precision of its front-engine layout with the joy of open-top driving. It’s a car that invites you to slow down and enjoy the ride while still delivering thrilling performance when you want it.
One of the most surprising aspects of the 968 is its practicality. Even with the top down, the 968 offers ample trunk space, making it a sports car you could easily use for a weekend getaway. The combination of comfort, style, and driving dynamics makes it a versatile and rewarding Porsche to own.
PORSCHE’S COMMITMENT TO CLASSIC CARS
Through the Porsche Classic division, there’s an extensive range of more than 80,000 genuine parts for classics like the 968 (in fact, Porsche supplies 5,000 parts for the 968). The brand’s Classic Partners provide expert service, special Classic events, and ongoing support for enthusiasts who, like me, have a deep appreciation for Porsche’s history. It’s reassuring to know that owning a classic Porsche is not just about preserving the past but about keeping it alive with the same innovation that built the brand.
FINAL THOUGHTS: THE LEGACY OF THE 968 CABRIOLET
As I reflect on driving the 1994 Porsche 968 Cabriolet, I’m struck by how well it blends classic Porsche design with a driving experience that still feels fresh today. Its rarity, character, and unmistakable Guards Red finish make it a standout in the Porsche lineup (and would likely do well at the UCR Concours!). It’s yet another reminder of the rich legacy of well-engineered cars Porsche has produced over the decades. </>
