Among the longest running sports car models in the world, the 911 needs no introduction. Defined by its endurance race-winning durability and sensational dynamic competence, the 911 has won millions of admiring fans because it combines an unadulterated sports car experience with genuine usability. Refined over the course of decades, sometimes incrementally, other times transformatively, the 911 saw its most substantial re-engineering to date with the transition to a liquid-cooled engine when the 996 generation was introduced for the 1999 model year in the United States.
Technically necessary to continue to evolve the 911, this change was met by purists with a pang of disappointment. For over 30 years, from 1964 until the end of the 993 generation in 1998, the fundamental architecture of the 911 had remained unchanged. While the offset floor-hinged pedals and hilariously chaotic ergonomics were peculiar vestiges from the 1960s even 25 years ago, the subjective qualities of the car, particularly the unparalleled tactility of the driving experience, have a timeless appeal that has made air-cooled 911s only grow in collectibility and desirability since the transition to liquid-cooled engines.
As the last of the air-cooled cars, the 993 is particularly significant. When it appeared, it was aesthetically the most substantial redesign of the 911 to date, somehow managing to look thoroughly contemporary yet also unmistakably Porsche, a feat the company continues to this day. Virtually every system was improved: the twin-plug 3.6 liter engine made more power, the rear suspension was comprehensively re-designed, the brakes were upgraded, the AC and ergonomics improved, and the result was a meaningfully more competent car.
As with its 964 predecessor, the 993 was available in a wide range of configurations, with widebody cars being particularly stunning, coupling the evocative widened bodywork and enhanced roadholding of the Turbo with the marvelous linearity, responsiveness, and sound of the naturally-aspirated 911 engine. As its 996 replacement approached, the 993 suddenly looked even more romantic: a charming artifact that represented the end of a glorious era for Porsche, and enthusiasts took note. One famously enthusiastic Porsche customer in particular took note, and through his close connection with Porsche, was able to secure the last air-cooled Porsche built for the US market.
Originally owned by Jerry Seinfeld, this 993 Carrera S was specially equipped to commemorate the end of an era. Finished in black with black leather interior, and appropriately sombre way to send off an icon, the car has yellow accents such as the seat belts and unusually, the brake calipers. Other unusual equipment includes simple ‘911’ badging on the rear deck lid, as well as a commemorative plaque in the luggage compartment confirming that this is the final air-cooled 911 built and that it was made for Jerry Seinfeld. The build sheet simply lists $41,151 of special features in addition to a host of other options such as supple leather, full leather, sound package plus, motor sound package, metal door sill plates with Carrera S logo, 18” wheels, power seats, colored wheel crests, and air freight from Porsche AG.
Reportedly a two owner car, this car has been with its current owner for 14 years. A collector with numerous interesting Porsches, he has used this car sparingly, covering only 600 miles during his ownership. The car is complete with books, tools, compressor, and two switchblade keys plus one conventional key.
