The fifth generation of the Porsche 911 introduced major changes when it hit dealer lots back in 1997, and it wasn’t just the exterior redesign, either. Known as the Type 996, the revamped car gave up its air-cooling system and switched to water for the first time, although the flat-six layout was retained. Nearly 300 HP sounds like more than enough for most drivers, but somebody thought this 1999 Porsche 911 Carrera here on Craigslist needed extra, with the output now reported to top the 430 mark. This unusual German/American combo is in New Braunfels, Texas, and is listed at $46,500. Fun find here, Rocco B., and thanks for sending us the tip!
Missing from the rear of this 911 is the 3.4-liter engine that would have been present when the Porsche was new, and filling the void now is a GM 6.2L LS3, known for the excellent performance it delivered in both the Chevrolet Corvette C6 and Camaro SS. While this sounds like a fine choice to fill the bay here in general, this engine also features a cast-aluminum block, so the lightweight factor was also a good idea. The seller describes performance as fast and smooth, and with the V8’s mileage reported to be under 20,000, there’s likely plenty of life left for the next owner to enjoy.
The remainder of the Porsche is said to be at 86,000 miles, with the interior still looking pretty good for a car nearing the three-decade mark. Some additional good news in the performance department is that stick shifter, as it’s attached to a 6-speed manual transmission, so this one must be particularly enriching to get behind the wheel of. All of the instruments are stated as working, and the A/C is still blowing cold, so the driver and passenger can stay comfortable while going down the road as they pass nearly every other car in sight. Theoretically, there’s room for 4 in here, but just staring at those fold-down rear seats makes me feel claustrophobic.
Although the mechanics have been heavily modified, the owner says this one still has a clean Carfax report and that the car has never been involved in any accidents. The body still seems to be in very nice shape, and the Arctic Silver paint appears to be shining brightly, though there’s no word on whether or not the finish is original. In addition to the soft top, a factory body-color hardtop is included, which features a wheeled storage stand. I’m not sure how Porsche purists will view this one, but the concept appears well executed, and this 911 Carrera seems like a pretty cool offering IMHO. What are your thoughts here?
Sweet!! Look at those floor mats, i guess they ran in the mud. Posted 16 days ago.
Cool car. The engine swap looks to have been well thought out and executed. Purists won’t like it, but someone who’d consider using it as a driver might not care.
Steve R