Keep up to date
Keep up to date with all things Trade Classics, along with new cars.
Sold

1996 Porsche 911 Targa (993)

This vehicle has now been sold - click ‘Register Similar’ below to get notified when we consign a similar vehicle.

Sold Price

£55,000

  • Mileage~71,103 on clock
  • Transmission6-speed Manual
  • Engine3.6-litre
  • LocationPetersfield, East Hampshire

SOLD

1996 Porsche 911 Targa (993)

Register interest for similar cars

Introduction

Darren Rungasamy
Editor and Photographer

The 993 marks an unforgettable technical and emotional high point for Porsche purists.

As the final chapter of a legendary legacy, the Porsche 993 represents the absolute pinnacle of the air-cooled era. Introduced for the 1995 model year, the upgraded Varioram induction system ensured this later-generation model flawlessly blends classic, analogue driving dynamics and an iconic mechanical soundtrack with modern grand touring refinement.

While original 911s carried a reputation for wayward handling tendencies, the 993 tamed those quirks with a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension that drastically improved ride comfort and stability. This generation stands as a technical and stylistic high point, pairing rock-solid build quality with timeless aesthetics. From the innovative sliding-glass-roof Targa to the coveted wide-body variants, the 993 remains a deeply emotional high-water mark for enthusiasts, capturing the true heart of Porsche history before the water-cooled 996 took over in 1998.

Coming to market from just over two years with our vendor, this 1996 Porsche 993 Targa features the highly desirable manual gearbox and is beautifully finished in 'Ocean Blue' metallic over a grey and blue leather interior. Backed by an impressive service history boasting 18 stamps and invoices back to 2003, this low-mileage example is fresh from a recent service. It also benefits from a full body respray carried out in 2018 and the car is complete with its original owner’s pack, booklets, and two sets of keys.

This listing was written from information supplied by Darren after meeting Paul the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

After owning a variety of exotic cars over the decades, this 993 Targa provided the perfect, fitting bookend to my sports car driving history.

Paul purchased the vehicle in 2024, adding to a long line of air-cooled Porsches he has owned since the mid-1970s. After a brief period owning Ferraris, he was drawn back to the Porsche brand upon discovering this smartly presented 993.

Used strictly as a weekend leisure car and stored in the garage, it is now being offered for sale due to a lack of recent use while Paul recovers from a recent operation.

Paul will be happy to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

Paul
Vehicle Owner

Paul saved £9,900* when they
sold their Porsche with us.

SELLING MADE EASY

  • We'll take the photos & create the listing.
  • We'll market it to our 62K buyers & online.
  • You'll keep your car until it's paid for.
 

PEACE OF MIND FOR BUYERS

  • They can fully review our cars online.
  • They can buy on our trusted platform.
  • They're able to buy without leaving home.

GET YOUR VALUATION

Exterior

Benefiting from a full body respray, the deep lustre of the metallic blue paint creates a formidable presentation.

Wheels and Tyres

The 17” 2-piece split-rim Speedlines are in good shape and present smartly with no significant marks.

The front and rear of the car is fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport tyres with the front show a spec of 205/50 and 245/40 to the rear - these are date coded from 2016. They have legal tread but show mild signs of wear on the sidewalls.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

image

Bodywork

The car presents beautifully with a smart, cohesive body and no signs of panel damage, benefitting from the restoration of both front wings in 2021. The panels are smoothly aligned to the body with uniform shut lines, and all doors open and shut with ease.

Minor, age-related imperfections are limited to the offside top of the rear wing (near the engine cover) and the lowest lips of the rear valance.

The underbody is clean following a recent dry-ice cleaning treatment. The overall structure is solid, showing only light, age-related wear in places. The jacking points, wheel wells, and suspension mounts are all in good order, as are the engine bay and luggage compartment floor.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

image

Paint

Benefiting from a full-body respray in 2018, the 'Ocean Blue' metallic paintwork presents in exceptional condition for its age, boasting a deep lustre, minimal swirling, and a perfectly even finish.

While there are a few minor surface marks and light chips, most notably on the driver’s door edge alongside the occasional stone chip elsewhere, the bodywork is free of typical road wear.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

image

Glass and Trim

The glass, headlamps and seals are in good condition throughout.

While the rear light lenses are in decent shape, there are a couple of fractures and signs of ageing on the rear centre reflector.

All trim is complete and appears to be securely mounted, while the bumpers sit flush to the body and remain free of significant marks.

image

Interior

Well-preserved with an almost flawless interior, the cabin remains a testament to Porsche's legendary build quality.

Seats and Carpets

The grey leather sports seats present well overall; the driver's side shows typical, age-related creasing but is free of any significant wear. While the passenger seat's centre squab requires reattaching, the seat is otherwise in good condition.

The carpets and mats are complete throughout, with the driver's side showing only mild wear - well above expectations for a vehicle of this age.

image

Dashboard

The blue leather-padded dashboard is in excellent condition, with all fascia fittings, dials, switches, and controls present and working positively, aside from the heater control plate, which shows minor fractures.

All controls are said to function exactly as they should, with the exception of the manual rear spoiler button.

Additionally, the interior trim, door cards, and luggage area remain in good shape.

image

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The blue leather steering wheel shows mild wear along the rim, with a similar wear noted on the gear lever; however, neither distracts from the overall well-preserved and positive condition of the cabin.

image

Mechanics

Defined by its iconic air-cooled note, the 993 masterfully blends classic Porsche character with modern refinement.

Engine and Gearbox

The engine starts immediately with its characteristic rhythmic 'gurgle', remaining entirely free of any unwanted noises. While the dashboard engine warning lights remain clear, an unrelated warning regarding the rear spoiler operation was noted during our visit.

The engine is smartly presented, showing well-maintained hoses and ancillaries, all backed by a strong main dealer and Porsche specialist service history.

The six-speed manual gearbox operates flawlessly, with no reports of clutch slippage or gear engagement issues.

image

Suspension and Brakes

The car rides smoothly, remaining entirely free of any unwanted noises, thuds, or vibrations. Benefiting from new drop links installed last year, it corners beautifully and feels firmly planted, with no creaks or squeaks detected during the test drive.

The braking system inspires confidence, operating smoothly without any squeals or judders. They benefit from recent maintenance, including new rear discs fitted in 2025, while the front discs and pads were previously renewed in 2018.

image

The Drive

Driving a Porsche 993 offers an unparalleled analogue experience. To fully appreciate its magic, you must tune into the mechanical symphony of Porsche's final air-cooled engine, which seamlessly blends the tactile feedback of a classic sports car with the usability of a modern grand tourer.

On the road, the intake noise is incredibly rich and mechanical, particularly under open throttle, and it pulls smoothly, constantly encouraging you to push ahead. Thanks to the hydraulic setup, the steering is highly communicative, inspiring remarkable confidence through the corners, free of any unwanted noises.

During our drive with Selina behind the wheel on behalf of the owner, Paul, the 993 rewarded us with excellent traction, confident handling, and a deeply intuitive yet comfortable ride. The engine idles smoothly at rest once warmed up with no undulations.

Furthermore, over his two years of ownership, Paul reports no issues with oil pressure or engine temperature, with oil pressure consistently reading 4.5 to 5.0 bar while on the move.

image

Electrics and Other

The glass roof panel is free of marks and operates flawlessly, with the wind deflector raising smoothly and the internal blind functioning exactly as it should.

The car has a Aero-kit front spoiler fitted as part of the original factory specification.

The rear spoiler warning light remained illuminated during our visit.

image

History and Paperwork

Originally registered by Porsche JCT600 in Leeds in October 1996, this vehicle boasts a comprehensive service history, evidenced by 18 service stamps. An extensive history file includes invoices dating back to 2003, highlighting major work such as new front shock absorbers and a control board in 2014, a steering rack overhaul in 2015, and new front brake discs and pads in 2018. The car also benefited from a full body respray in 2018, followed by restoration work to the front wings in 2021. More recent maintenance includes brake work and new drop links fitted in 2025 and both the underside and the engine bay have recently benefited from a meticulous dry-ice cleaning treatment.

Its most recent service was in June 2026 and carries an MOT valid until July 2026. It is accompanied by its complete owner’s pack and booklets, two sets of keys, past V5 certificates tracing ownership history back to 2005, and historical MOT certificates dating back to 2001. Paul told us he is having the paint chip to the drivers doors, the rear offside panel seam and nearside rear window trim detailed.

Please note: The owner will retain the current ageless registration plate; the car will be sold with its previous cherished plate instead.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check. This brought up the car has finance on it, this will be cleared by the end go the auction.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment of the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bids, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
16-06-2026 Porsche Specialist Service 71,077
29-07-2025 MOT 70,909
05-04-2024 Porsche Specialist Service 70,423
02-04-2024 MOT 70,417
30-03-2023 MOT 70,415
30-03-2022 Porsche Specialist Service 70,413
22-03-2022 MOT 70,375
10-03-2021 MOT 70,116
11-03-2020 Porsche Specialist Service 70,044
11-03-2020 MOT 70,044
03-04-2019 MOT 69,791
02-04-2019 Porsche Specialist Service 69,788
27-04-2018 MOT 69,021
08-05-2017 MOT 68,750
02-05-2017 Porsche Specialist Service 68,743
29-04-2016 MOT 67,530
25-04-2015 MOT 66,100
18-04-2014 MOT 64,615
01-10-2013 Porsche Specialist Service 63,985
03-04-2013 MOT 61,310
19-03-2012 MOT 59,932
03-04-2012 Porsche Specialist Service 59,111
24-03-2011 MOT 58,357
14-05-2009 MOT 55,815
09-05-2008 MOT 53,654
10-05-2007 Porsche Specialist Service 50,314
27-04-2007 MOT 50,178
02-05-2006 MOT 44,181
05-05-2006 Porsche Specialist Service 44,177
17-01-2006 MOT 41,707
27-10-2005 MOT 40,662
17-12-2004 Porsche Specialist Service 39,610
15-10-2004 MOT 38,890
07-10-2003 Porsche Specialist Service 37,234
29-09-2003 MOT 37,019
29-10-2002 MOT 28,549
30-10-2002 Jaguar Service 28,529
04-10-2001 MOT 26,539
02-08-2001 Porsche Service 26,231
16-08-2000 Porsche Service 24,368
20-08-1999 Porsche Service 22,472
24-06-1998 Porsche Service 19,286
19-08-1997 Porsche Service 11,893
Key Details
  • Year1996
  • Model911 Targa (993)
  • Transmission6-speed Manual
  • Reg. Date25-10-1996
  • CC3596
  • Mileage~71,103 on clock
  • HistoryYes
  • ColourOcean Blue Metallic
  • Interior ColourGrey/Blue
  • Interior TrimLeather
  • Chassis #WP0ZZZ99ZVS380319
  • Engine #63V01443
  • Last Service16-06-2026
  • MOTYes Exp: 28-07-2026
  • MOT ExemptNo
  • Road Tax ExemptNo
  • HPi ClearFinance - Will be Cleared
  • Former Keepers8
  • Tyre BrandMichelin Pilot Sport
  • Tyre Age2016
  • # of Keys2
  • LHD or RHDRHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Owned2 years, 2 months
  • Key FeatureManual Car
  • Vehicle RegistrationJOX 632
  • Driver’s SideRight
  • Fuel TypePetrol
  • Body Type2-door Targa
  • Auction ID3771







Vehicle Sold

Register your interest for similar cars.

This vehicle has now been sold - click 'I Want One' below to get notified when we consign a similar vehicle.

I WANT ONE
Ask Questions
Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.
12 Comments
Rizvan
Rizvan
9 days ago

Hi,
Lovely car.
Can’t see from the on the road video; is the oil temp gauge functioning correctly.
Also re the rear spoiler lift/warning light; have you had this investigated/quoted for repair? I presume the rams have failed but would be grateful for confirmation.
Thanks.

JeffO
JeffO
10 days ago

Can i please ask the current outstanding amount of finnance owed on this 993 and which company has First charge over it?
Tia J.

Adam Purrier - Trade Classics
Adam Purrier - Trade Classics
Admin
  JeffO
10 days ago

Hi Jeff, I’ve replied to you on the email you sent in. The finance company is on the HPi report in the paperwork. As discussed, this will be settled by the seller out of their own funds prior to the winning bidder purchasing the car. Adam -TC

fanofclassics
fanofclassics
11 days ago

Hi Paul
Can you tell Me why the car had a full body respray, has it been in any accidents?
Thanks

Adam Purrier - Trade Classics
Adam Purrier - Trade Classics
Admin
  fanofclassics
10 days ago

Hello… answering on behalf of the owner. I understand it was just a freshen up to keep the car in good condition – everything known about the car has been covered but please review all images / videos to assess the condition. Thanks, Adam – TC

JeffO
JeffO
12 days ago

Hi, Can you please confirm the current correct Reg number with DVLA for Mot History? And also explain why the Milleage in 2011 on the invoice with Tom Fergusson recorded as 91000 miles and you are now selling at 71000 miles?
Also how will the outstanding finance be cleared before collection and final payment is made? IMO the Car should Not be for sale in online auction with outstanding finance and a third party 1st charge over this vehicle? I have called and emailed TC on this but not yet received any reply?. Tia J

Adam Purrier - Trade Classics
Adam Purrier - Trade Classics
Admin
  JeffO
12 days ago

Hi Jeff – so that invoice for a radio cassette looks like it’s for a different car as the registration number has never been fitted to this car. So please disregard that invoice as it must be in the pack by mistake, or a mistake on the invoice by the company. Either way you’ll see the mileage is consecutive through MOT history and that’s what counts. It’s common place for cars to have finance and owners commit to clearing before buyers pay (they get the settlement figure / process to pay all known upfront). Key thing is this has to be settled by the seller within the 7 days and of course BEFORE the buyer’s pays. We have commitment from the owner for this and it’s a prerequisite to us taking the car on. HTH Adam

Adam Purrier - Trade Classics
Adam Purrier - Trade Classics
Admin
  JeffO
12 days ago

Oops sorry please check out the HPi report with previous plate history – it’s now moved back to L16 OOB https://www.check-mot.service.gov.uk/results?registration=L16OOB&checkRecalls=true

david1969
david1969
22 days ago

Hi, there was a tray underneath the rear in the garage, can you confirm if the car is dropping oil or not? Thanks

JavWaseem83
JavWaseem83
23 days ago

Hi.
When and how will the finance be cleared?
Thanks
Jav

MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

Vehicle Location

Petersfield, East Hampshire

Delivery Calculator


Thank You


Form Submitted

Your request has been submitted successfully and we'll keep you updated.