The Boxster may have replaced the 968 as Porsche's entry-level model in 1996, but before the front-engined car was sent to pasture, it got a little extra oomph courtesy the folks over at Porsche Motorsport in Weissach.
Just how much oomph? Well Porsche took a 968 Clubsport, dropped it almost a full inch lower, and attached a single turbo by using a modified head from 944 Turbo. That added turbocharger gave the Turbo S 305 horsepower and 369 lb.-ft. of torque—almost 68 more horsepower and 144 more torque than a more pedestrian 968—with a recorded zero-to-60 time of 4.7 seconds.
Other additions that set the Turbo S apart included twin NACA ducts in the hood, an adjustable rear wing and unique three-piece Speedline wheels.
Only 14 were said to have been built, and were sold exclusively in the European market.
Was the Turbo S the best way to send off the 968, or should that effort have gone into making a hotter version of its replacement?
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I always felt the 968 was a bit awkward looking. Brilliant update of the old 924 platform, but the headlights just never flowed with the body.
Kinda wish they had used the dual cam head instead of the single cam, but at least they gave it more power than even the 951S had.
Lots of great parts to swap into your older 924/944 though, so there's that.
The regular engine in the 968 still has very impressive numbers compared to many modern engines. 3 litre normally aspirated in-line 4 with 240hp.
canadian porsche racing legend Ludwig heimrath who raced many different types of Porsche's including 935 which he won the trans am championship with raced 968s in the 90s and said the 968 was his favourite.
HOT.
I was always fascinated by these and their GIANT inline-4s. I would love to drive it. Not sure if I want to own one.
I remember there was one near my high school when I was young, I thought it was cool looking. I was confused by the badge because I thought it was a 944.
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