If you’re a fan of classic cars, then taking a 1994 Porsche 968 Cabriolet for a spin is a nostalgic ride back to the ‘90s. The 968 Cabriolet is often overshadowed by its more popular siblings, the 911 and the Boxster, but this unique model brings its own flavor of Porsche’s iconic driving experience. Recently, we had the opportunity to take this convertible out for a drive, courtesy of Porsche’s Heritage Fleet, and it was quite a memorable journey.
The Basics: Specs and Features
The Porsche 968 Cabriolet is powered by a 3.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine producing 236 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. It’s a non-turbo engine, typical of the ‘90s era. Despite its age, the 968 feels surprisingly agile and engaging, offering more fun than many modern cars. One of the coolest features is the pop-up headlights, a signature of Porsches from this period.
The car’s six-speed manual transmission is an upgrade from the five-speed found in its predecessor, the 944. This setup adds to the driving thrill, providing a connection between the driver and the car that is often missing in today’s vehicles.
A Unique Look and Feel
The 968 Cabriolet stands out with its quirky design. It’s not often seen on the road, especially in convertible form, making it a rare sight that turns heads.
While the coupe version is more commonly praised for its looks, the convertible’s design has a unique charm. The rear end is squared off, and with the headlights down, it almost resembles other iconic convertibles of its time, like the 2002 Ford Thunderbird.
Compared to the likes of the Mazda Miata, the 968 Cabriolet offers a more premium feel. It’s a Porsche, after all, and despite being an entry-level model of its time, it carries the brand’s prestigious aura. The driving experience is similar to a Miata, with a hint of extra refinement and a slightly heavier feel.
Driving Dynamics: How It Feels on the Road
Driving the 968 is like stepping into a time machine. The hydraulic power steering, manual transmission, and non-turbo engine create a raw and visceral experience that modern cars simply can’t replicate. The car feels solid and well-built, with less body roll than you might expect from a ‘90s convertible.
It’s got a balanced weight distribution thanks to its transaxle setup, where the transmission and differential are mounted in the rear.
The car’s 3.0-liter engine provides a linear power delivery, coming alive around 4,000 RPM. While it doesn’t rev as high as some might wish (it tops out around 6,500 RPM), it offers enough punch to keep things exciting. The clutch is light, and the gear shifts are smooth, albeit with a slightly rubbery feel that’s characteristic of older cars.
Interior and Features: A Blast from the Past
The interior of the 968 Cabriolet feels authentically vintage with its orange and black analog gauges, straightforward controls, and a quirky layout.
Unlike newer Porsches, where the key is typically on the left, in the 968, it’s on the right side. The cabin is spacious enough for two, with a bit of room behind the seats and some storage in the trunk, though it’s occupied by the spare tire and a few vintage accessories.
One of the modern updates in this classic is the radio, which now supports Apple CarPlay while maintaining the original look, blending the past with the present. The top mechanism, however, remains a challenge—it’s a manual process that requires some finesse, much like many older convertibles.
Comparing to Other Cars
When it comes to comparing the 968 Cabriolet to other cars, it’s tough. It’s a niche vehicle that never gained the same popularity as the 911 or even the first-gen Boxster.
It’s cooler than a Miata in terms of brand prestige but lacks the Miata’s cult following and social media clout. The 968 is a bit of an underdog—a Porsche for those who want something different, with just enough quirkiness to keep it interesting.
Would you take this over a Miata or a modern BRZ? It depends on what you value more: the prestige and classic feel of a Porsche or the reliability and community vibe of a Miata. The 968 Cabriolet is certainly unique, offering a classy entry point into the Porsche world for those who appreciate vintage cars.
Current Value and Collectibility
Originally priced around $40,000 for the coupe, today’s market sees the 968 Cabriolet valued at approximately $30,000 to $40,000, depending on condition.
It’s not a car that has dramatically increased in value, but for classic car enthusiasts, it’s a rare and enjoyable piece of Porsche history. Owning a 968 means embracing the quirks and maintenance that come with a classic vehicle, but it also means owning a unique chapter of the Porsche legacy.
My Thoughts
Driving the 1994 Porsche 968 Cabriolet is a reminder of the simpler, more analog days of automotive design. It’s a car that doesn’t try to be anything other than what it is—a fun, engaging, and slightly quirky Porsche from an era that’s long gone.
For those who appreciate the nostalgia and character of vintage cars, the 968 Cabriolet is a delightful throwback that still manages to turn heads and deliver a satisfying driving experience.
