Porsche 996
![Blue Porsche 911 996 on asphalt](https://ejwfh7pywrz.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/DSC_7304-1024x683.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&quality=85&webp=85&ssl=1)
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](https://ejwfh7pywrz.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/DSC_7355-1024x683.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&quality=85&webp=85&ssl=1)
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](https://ejwfh7pywrz.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/DSC_7351-1024x683.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&quality=85&webp=85&ssl=1)
![closeup of engine bay Porsche 996](https://ejwfh7pywrz.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mf_water_cooled_porsche_history_-41-1024x768.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&quality=85&webp=85)
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](https://ejwfh7pywrz.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mf_water_cooled_porsche_history_-19-1024x577.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&quality=85&webp=85)
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.