1997 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 1997 Porsche 968 problems
Common problems with the Porsche 968 based on complaints from owners include:
- Maintenance Requirements: The Porsche 968 is not a "carefree" car and demands strict adherence to maintenance schedules. Owners need to stay on top of maintenance tasks, ensuring belts are not allowed to snap and pumps are properly maintained. Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent costly repairs and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.
- Electrical Issues: Porsche 968s, like many complex cars, can experience electrical problems over time. These issues may manifest in various ways, impacting the car's performance and reliability. Proper diagnostics and timely repairs are essential to address any electrical issues that arise during ownership.
- Body and Interior Concerns: Due to the age of the Porsche 968, common complaints may also include bodyshell integrity, interior wear, and convertible roof conditions. Ensuring the bodyshell is sound, the interior is well-maintained, and convertible roofs are in good condition are crucial aspects to consider when owning a Porsche 968.
- Engine Performance: Owners may encounter engine performance issues, especially with older models. Monitoring the engine's condition, addressing any unusual vibrations or sounds, and ensuring timely servicing can help prevent major engine problems and maintain the car's performance.
By being aware of these common problems and addressing them proactively, Porsche 968 owners can enjoy their vehicles with greater peace of mind and minimize the risk of unexpected repairs or failures.
Is the 968 reliable?
The Porsche 968's qualities are obvious – excellent pulling power, great handling, extremely high manufacturing quality and high reliability.
Is a Porsche 968 fast?
The 968 can attain a top speed of 252 km/h (157 mph) when equipped with the manual transmission and has a 0–100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration time of 6.5 seconds.
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.
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 |
1997 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:
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Porsche 968 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1997 Porsche 968 complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Porsche 968.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-10-01
- VIN: WPOACA2988V
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: DOOR LOCK FAILED.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Porsche 968 problems:
Thinking about the Porsche 968 - maintenance nightmare or not ...
Jul 22, 2013 ... Like all P cars: receipts, history...and when in doubt, replace the known problem parts because a timing belt failure will equal engine rebuild/ ...
Problems possible purchase 924s - Rennlist - Porsche Discussion ...
Feb 19, 2022 ... ... 968 Forum - Problems possible purchase 924s - I ... The driver door hinge attachment points are a common failure area from fatigue in the early ...
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Aug 19, 2014 ... Common issues, how high can the 3SFE go ... Porsche 968 - 2005 Acura TSX - 2004 Mazda 3 hatch - 2003 Subaru WRX 4-door - 1997 ... issue - 1990 Ford ...
Odometer not working, not gears - Rennlist - Porsche Discussion ...
May 14, 2017 ... I looked at a 993 years ago with the same issue and they said the stepper motor on 968/993 cars is a pretty common problem. The cost to send ...
Water and condensation in car | Porsche 911 UK Enthusiasts Online ...
Dec 10, 2007 ... ... common problem. Any help much appreciated as ... Porsche 996: 1997-2005 Porsche 993: 1993-1998 ... Porsche 968 Porsche 944 Porsche 944 Porsche ...
Other years of Porsche 968
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