1994 Porsche 968 problems
The Porsche 968 is a sports car manufactured by German automobile manufacturer Porsche AG from 1991 until 1995. It was the final evolution of a series of water-cooled front-engine rear wheel drive models begun almost 20 years earlier with the 924, taking over the entry-level position in the company lineup from the 944 from which it was derived. The 968 was Porsche's last new front-engined vehicle before the introduction of the Cayenne SUV in 2003.
History
Porsche's 944 model debuted for the 1982 model year as an evolution of the 924, was updated as "944S" in 1987 and as "944S2" in 1989. Porsche was in significant financial crisis at the time with less interest in its sports cars from customers, especially in the US. The virtually unchanged design of the 944, which was derived from the 924, was showing its age and sales of the model declined. Porsche hence found the need to develop a new entry level model. Shortly after the start of production of the S2 variant, Porsche engineers began working on another set of significant upgrades for the model, as executives were planning a final "S3" variant of the 944 with a design language in line with the models in its lineup in order to save development costs. During the development phase, 80 percent of the 944's mechanical components were either significantly modified or completely replaced by the engineers, leaving so little of the outgoing S2 model that Porsche management chose to introduce the variant as a new model, calling it the 968. In addition to the numerous mechanical upgrades, the new model also received significantly evolved styling both inside and out, with a more modern, streamlined look and more standard luxury amenities than on the 944. To save production costs, production was moved from the Audi plant in Neckarsulm (where the 924 and 944 had been manufactured under contract to Porsche), to Porsche's own factory in Zuffenhausen.
Design
The 968 was mainly a restyled evolution of the 944 with design links visible to its predecessor. Design work was done by Harm Lagaay who had designed the 924 and the 944 as well. The front of the car largely resembled the top-of-the line 928, sharing its exposed pop-up headlamps and the integrated front bumper. This frontal design would eventually appear on the 911 (993) two years later.
The rear of the 968 was also redesigned, featuring fully coloured rounded taillamps. Special bulbs were used in the taillamps which either illuminated a small area in amber colour when the turn signals were activated or in white when the car was reversing. PORSCHE badging was fitted between the taillights just below the model type number. The rear apron was integrated into the smoothened rear bumper.
While the exterior of the car was rounded and smoothed, the interior was largely unchanged and mostly shared with the preceding 944 S2 with the exception of switches and control knobs. The 968 also featured numerous small equipment and detail upgrades from the 944, including a Fuba roof-mounted antenna, updated single lens tail lamps, "Cup" style 16-inch alloy wheels, a wider selection of interior and exterior colours, a slightly updated "B" pillar and rear quarter window to accommodate adhesive installation to replace the older rubber gasket installation.
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Common 1994 Porsche 968 problems
The Porsche 968, produced in 1994, is known for its high-performance capabilities and unique features. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems that have been reported by owners.
One of the most common issues with the Porsche 968 is noise in the manual transmission due to pinion bearing failure. This problem can cause discomfort and inconvenience during driving, and it is recommended to have it checked and repaired by a professional.
Another issue that has been reported by owners is related to the engine. The aluminium 3.0-litre inline-four engine in the Porsche 968 is a strong unit, but it benefits greatly from annual oil changes, regardless of how little mileage is done. It is important to check if the camshaft timing chain tensioner has ever been replaced, as these have been known to fail on a few cars and can cause extensive engine damage when they do. Loud noises from the cylinder head can indicate imminent failure, and it is best to have this checked by a specialist for peace of mind.
The Porsche 968 also has some body roll, especially in the convertible model, which can make it less stable when being driven hard. Additionally, wind noise is louder in the convertible than in the Coupé due to the fabric top. The convertible also has significantly less utility value, with a smaller trunk that is only sufficient for flat items. The Coupé, on the other hand, can haul more than 500 liters of luggage with the rear seat folded down, making it the model of choice for Porsche newcomers who also want to use their vehicle in everyday life.
The Porsche 968 Club Sport, a track day version of the 968 coupé, weighs 50 kg less than the regular 968 coupé and comes with a limited-slip differential as standard. However, it is not the ideal companion for everyday usage due to its lack of rear seats, central locking, power windows, rear speakers, engine compartment lighting, electric tailgate release, and electrically adjustable exterior mirrors. Its payload is also reduced to 250 kg, and it has a significantly reduced battery capacity.
In conclusion, while the Porsche 968 is a high-performance vehicle with unique features, it is important to be aware of the common problems that have been reported by owners. Regular maintenance, such as annual oil changes and checking the camshaft timing chain tensioner, can help prevent engine problems. Additionally, being aware of the body roll and wind noise in the convertible model can help ensure a safe and comfortable driving experience. Finally, the Porsche 968 Club Sport, while a high-performance track day vehicle, is not ideal for everyday usage due to its lack of creature comforts and reduced payload capacity.
How rare is a Porsche 968?
And the Porsche 968 Turbo S was meant to be rare, being limited to just 100 unites. Its 350 hp racing version, called the 968 Turbo RS, cost DM 228,000.
Is the Porsche 968 fast?
With a 0-60 time in the high 5-second range and a 160-MPH top end, the 968 is faster than a 911 3.2 Carrera. It's nearly as fast as a 964. And with a 3.0L motor and variable valve timing (Variocam), it's reasonably torquey.
What is the top speed of the Porsche 968?
156 mph
Porsche 968 Performance Overview
| Model | Porsche 968 Coupe | Porsche 968 Convertible |
|---|---|---|
| Track Rear | 57.09 in/1,450 mm | 57.09 in/1,450 mm |
| 0 to 60 mph | 6.3 seconds manual/7.7 seconds Tiptronic S | 6.3 seconds manual/7.7 seconds Tiptronic S |
| Top Speed | 156 mph manual/153 mph Tiptronic S | 156 mph manual/153 mph Tiptronic S |
How much is a Porsche 968 worth?
Q: What is the lowest sale price of a Porsche 968? A: The lowest recorded sale price was $8,800 for a 1992 Porsche 968 Cabriolet on Nov 10 2022. Q: What is the average sale price of a Porsche 968? A: The average price of a Porsche 968 is $37,475.
1994 Porsche 968 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Porsche 968 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1994 Porsche 968 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1994 Porsche 968 complaints
The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1994 Porsche 968.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-14
- VIN: WP0AA2965RS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: PINION BEARING FAILURE IN POWER TRAIN OF PORSCHE 968 MODEL CARS - MANUFACTURING DEFECT, WITHOUT RELATIONSHIP TO DRIVING CONDITIONS OR WEAR AND TEAR. MAJOR SAFETY CONCERN. EXTREMELY HIGH COST TO REPAIR - SHOULD BE SUBJECT TO IMMEDIATE RECALL. *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-16
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THERE EXISTS A KNOWN ISSUE WITH THE PINION BEARING IN THE TRANSAXLE. THIS ISSUE HAS BEEN DOCUMENTED BY DEALERS, CONSUMERS, AND THE MANUFACTURER. TO DATE, THERE HAVE BEEN HUNDREDS OF KNOWN FAILURES - CONSIDERING THAT PORSCHE PRODUCED LESS THAN 12,780 OF THESE VEHICLES WORLDWIDE OVER FOUR YEARS, THE RATIO OF FAILURES IS ALARMINGLY HIGH. TO DATE, PORSCHE HAS REJECTED CLAIMS FROM CONSUMERS FOR THE REPAIR OF FAILED UNITS AND CONTINUES TO IGNORE THE PROBLEM WHICH UNADDRESSED CAN RESULT IN CATASTROPHIC FAILURE AND "COULD" RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY. THIS IS A REAL SAFETY ISSUE THAT HAS GONE UNRESOLVED LONG ENOUGH. PERHAPS THE SMALL NUMBER OF UNITS MANUFACTURED IS TO BLAME FOR THE PROBLEM TAKING SO LONG TO SURFACE AS A WIDEPREAD ISSUE, BUT THERE IS A GROWING NUMBER OF PEOPLE REPORTING THIS FAILURE ON VARIOUS ONLINE FORUMS AND COMMUNITIES. ORIGINALLY THOUGHT TO HAVE AFFECTED ON A HANDFUL OF UNITS, THE NUMBER KEEPS GROWING AND HAS REACHED A LEVEL WHERE A RECALL SHOULD BE ISSUED FOR ALL UNITS. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO VISIT WWW.968.NET FOR A TASTE OF ANGRY OWNERS.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-16
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: KNOWN PINION BEARING ISSUE HAS BEEN IGNORED BY PORSCHE FOR YEARS. THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF KNOWN CASES OF THIS BEARING FAILURE YET PORSCHE OUTRIGHT DENIES A PROBLEM. WITH LESS THAN 12,780 UNITS PRODUCED WORLDWIDE OVER FOUR YEARS, THE RATIO OF FAILED UNITS OF QUITE HIGH BY ANY STANDARD. THERE EXISTS THE POTENTIAL OF CAUSUALTIES SHOULD THIS FAILURE BE IGNORED AND OCCUR WHILE DRIVING IN TRAFFIC. WHILE THERE TYPICALLY IS WARNING THAT THE BEARING IS FAILING, MANY PEOPLE CONTINUE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE NOT KNOWING THE POTENTIAL RISK. PORSCHE SHOULD ISSUE A MODEL WIDE RECALL AND ADDRESS THIS ISSUE IN ALL 968 PRODUCED OVER THE FOUR YEAR PRODUCTION RUN AS THE FAILURE HAS BEEN REPORTED IN UNITS FROM EACH YEAR OF MANUFACTURE. PLEASE VISIST WWW.968.NET FOR A DISCUSSION ON THIS MATTER. YOU WILL HEAR THE NIGHTMARE STORIES FROM MANY 968 OWNERS - FROM THE FAILURE ITSELF, TO TRYING TO GET PORSCHE TO STEP UP AND TAKE RESPONSIBILITY. YOU WILL ALSO FIND THAT PORSCHE DOES, IN FACT, KNOW ABOUT THIS ISSUE AND CONTINUES TO IGNORE IT AND DISMISS ANY CLAIMS FOR REPAIRS FROM OWNERS.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-08-31
- VIN: WPOAA2963RS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ALL ELECTRICAL POWER STOPS ABRUPTLY IMMEDIATELY KILLING THE ENGINE AND ALL POWER TO LIGHTS. YOU CAN'T EVEN PUT ON EMERGENCY FLASHERS SINCE THERE IS NO ELECTRICAL POWER. APPEARS TO HAPPEN WHEN A HIGHER ELECTRICAL LOAD IS INTRODUCED SUCH AS A/C OR HIGH BEAMS ARE USED. MOST RECENTLY, THIS HAPPENED ON A TWO LANE HIGHWAY WHERE THE ONLY LIGHTS AVAILABLE WERE THE VEHICLE HEADLIGHTS. WHEN ALL POWER STOPPED AT CLOSE TO 60MPH IT WAS PITCH BLACK. WITHOUT KNOWING THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, I HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO PULL OVER MISSING A TELEPHONE POLE AT 50MPH BY INCHES. THE RESULTING INSPECTION SHOWS THE WIRING HARNESS CLOSE TO THE WINDSHIELD UNDER THE PASSENGER SIDE WINDSHIELD WIPER SHOWS THAT IF YOU WIGGLE THE WIRING HARNESS, ALL POWER IS RESTORED. THE ENGINE WILL START AT THIS POINT AND THE VEHICLE CAN CONTINUE UNTIL THE NEXT POWER SURGE WHICH THEN KILLS THE ENGINE AND ALL LIGHTS ONCE AGAIN. NO FUSES ARE AFFECTED BY THIS.*AK
Positive 1994 Porsche 968 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1994 Porsche 968 problems:
Looking for late 968; problem areas - Rennlist - Porsche Discussion ...
Jun 11, 2005 ... 968 Forum - Looking for late 968; problem areas - Hi I'm looking for a low mileage 968, prefer a 94 or 95. Anybody know of any What problems ...
Porsche 968 Problems and Complaints - 13 Issues
Top Porsche 968 Problems · Noise in manual transmission due to pinion bearing failure · Engine Oil Leaks May Cause the Flesible Hub at the Engine Flywheel to Fail.
New fuel pump and it still won't crank - Pelican Parts Forums
Jan 22, 2016 ... There are a number of common problems with these cars. ... There are a number of common problems ... This is a 1994 Porsche 968 non turbo. 01-24 ...
Pinion Bearing Problem - Porsche 968 Forums
Common tests for the problem include running ... What year is your 968?:1994; What model is ... American based group that approached Porsche about ...
How I bought my Porsche 968 completely the wrong way and still ...
Jul 15, 2014 ... One of the common problems with ClubSports is that people bought it because it had the trendy badge. It was cheaper and lighter than a regular ...
Other years of Porsche 968
Are you having problems with your 1994 Porsche 968?
Freddie Langworth 2024-11-28
The 968 is a supercar that appeals to the discerning driver. If you're looking for more than just raw speed, and want an exotic sports car that won't break the bank, then this is the car for you.
Monserrate Cruickshank 2024-11-01
I can tell you really love Porsches! It's great to hear that this one is your favorite out of the four you've owned. While the 911 may be more fun to drive, it sounds like this one strikes the perfect balance between design, performance, and fun.
Dagmar Ernser 2024-07-02
Hi there! I just wanted to share with you how much I love my 92 Porsche 968. I bought it about 9 years ago and I have absolutely no regrets. As a mechanical engineer, I really appreciate the design, handling, acceleration, brakes, fuel economy, and the overall fun driving experience that this car provides. I've driven it almost every day, except for when I had a knee operation, and it still runs great with 102,000 miles on it. It looks good too, so I don't plan on selling it anytime soon!
Cullen Gutmann 2024-04-27
Put some stickies on this car, clean it up and go! Better than most drivers, it's a really civilized track car. If you can hit the apex, the car will reward you over and over. However, it's important to note that this car requires regular and expensive maintenance, with routine maintenance costing around $2000 every 10,000 miles and unexpected repairs costing around $3000.
Jamie Roberts 2024-04-23
Hello! I'm so glad to hear that you're interested in the '94 968 coupe! It sounds like you've had some great experiences with Porsches in the past, and I'm sure the 968 won't disappoint. While repairs can be costly, it's great to hear that things seldom break. Just make sure to do your research and find a reputable independent shop that specializes in old water-cooled Porsches before making a purchase. And I couldn't agree more - the 968 is definitely one of the best-looking cars ever made!