CLASSIC NEVER DIES

Porsche 911 & the Water Cooled Engine Transition

Porsche 996

The 996 was the first water-cooled Porsche 911 generation, introduced in 1997. The decision to switch to water-cooled engines was made to improve performance and meet more stringent emissions standards. The 996 featured a 3.4-liter flat-six engine, producing 296 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The engine was coupled with a six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic transmission.

blue Porsche 911 996 on dirt road — A stunning navy blue 911 996
Source: Motofutura

Despite its improvements, the 996 generation was met with some criticism. Porsche purists were not fond of the water-cooled engine and the new design, which they felt was a departure from the classic 911 look. Additionally, the 996 faced some issues with reliability, particularly with its IMS (intermediate shaft) bearing.

996 Porsche interior — *Source: Motofutura*

closeup of engine bay Porsche 996 — A Porsche 996’s engine bay showing off its new water cooled system
Source: Bring-A-Trailer

In response to these criticisms, Porsche made several updates to the 996 throughout its production run. The car received a facelift in 2002, with redesigned headlights and a revised interior. The company also addressed the IMS bearing issue in later models, offering an upgraded part that was less prone to failure.

red Porsche car on road — Porsche 911 996 with facelift
Source: Porsche

Despite its flaws, the 996 generation set the stage for the water-cooled Porsche 911’s future, paving the way for the more refined and reliable generations to come.