1992 Porsche 968 928 from North America - Comments

The clutch needed replaced at about 50000 miles and cost approximately $1,200 to repair-cheaper than on a 944 due to better design.

The heater core went at 55000 and also cost over $ 1,000 at the dealership.

Timing belt, rollers, gaskets were done at 42,000 as preventative maintenance and cost about $800.

Other than the above, new tires and miscellaneous things such as a sunroof switch and a non-related relay, the car has been relatively trouble free. However, I have recently noticed a small coolant leak on the garage floor so I am assuming the worst, a water pump failure. I'm guessing that will cost another thousand dollars or so.

The car is fairly expensive to maintain, at about $ 1,500 per year on average. But, once many of the items are replaced, I expect the car to be trouble free for a long time, considering the low miles.

My car is a stunning white 6 speed coupe with linen leather sport seats and 17" turbo cup wheels. It always gets stares and comments so I would consider it to have a lot of curb appeal, considering the price. Though the basic design dates back to the humble 924 in 1977, this car further evolved from the muscular shape of the 944 and added a fresh look for the 90's. So, it looks timeless. A bit classic and a bit modern.

The car is fast. I had an LT1 Formula Fire bird which was a little quicker off the line due to its massive torque. But, the 968 quickly catches up in the upper rpm ranges. Contrarty to the LT1, which vibrated at speeds over 120 on its way to 155 or so, the 968 easily rips to 157 without running out of breath. The cars are about equal in quarter mile runs at about 14.5 seconds.

I get front spaces at the valet and respect at Porsche meets. This is a rare car and, though it is derived from the 944, it was the first of the series to be built at the Porsche factory. Maybe that's why its so highly regarded.

Its difficult and expensive to get more horsepower out of the car, which is why I would probably get a 944 turbo if I were to get another watercooled 4 cylinder Porsche. But, I'd still keep the 968 for its great performance, looks, and comfort.

I have the first year 1992 LT1, but it's a Corvette and does almost the claimed 170mph from the factory. I don't have any vibrations you mentioned over 120mph. Car is stock and I took it to the Joliet speedway and hit the 1/4 mile 3 times against a 1991 L98 and we both were doing the 1/4 mile under 12 seconds. Infact we got kicked off the track for going to fast for the class since we didn't have helmets.

As stated to another reviewer over here in UK you can improve the performance with sports exhaust and front induction kit and a chip!

You should have had your water pump done when you got the timming belt job. Don't mind Corvette owners talking about their "babies"...the only vette worth looking at is the C6...and that's because it was partially designed by Porsche.

I had the timing belt done the first time at 42k. I didn't think the water pump should need changed at tat mileage, so, Planned on getting it changed the next time, around 75k. As it turned out, the water pump didn't last that long. I think it failed prematurely. Of course, the car has low mileage for the year and is now 15 years old.

Hi, I know this is rather late in the day but I've just reached that point where I'm deciding between the Corrado and the 968.

The shortlist is Corrado -80,000 miles full service history, about 4500 pounds, and 968, 130000, well maintained for 8500 (and 500 bucks more on the car insurance).

You've driven both... my worry is I can't get both as the cars might be too old (or maybe expensive if they become classics).

What do you think I should get?!?!?

Thanks!

It's hard to say which is a better buy; the 968 or the VR6 Corrado. A lot depends on how you will use it. Year-round winter (snow) usage dictates the VW in my opinion. IF you life in a warmer climate or will only use it in good weather, the choice gets more difficult.

The Corrado felt like a high quality Porsche in my opinion, with equal or superior build quality for the most part. You felt it was a little nose-heavy vs the Porsche, but it still handled excellent... one of the best front drive handling cars ever. Its acceleration was pretty close, too. Prices have pretty much bottomed out and are lower than the Porsche. You have more affordable power upgrading options with the VW, as well. If that's your thing. The Corrado felt like a smaller sports car overall, whereas the Porsche felt heavier and bigger. Though the VW had more usable interior room.

The Porsche, though, has the cache. It is a little quicker and has a higher top speed, but those are not things you use everyday. I prefer rear drive handling and do not need this for winter transportation so as a limited use pleasure vehicle, the Porsche would get the nod.

Both are relatively rare cars that are admired. I wish I still had both.