Gone in 60 Seconds (2000): Porsche 911
In a film centered around a master thief and his crew stealing cars, the appearance of a Porsche should come as no surprise. While the real attractions of Gone in 60 Seconds are arguably the cars, showcasing some of the most coveted vehicles ever manufactured—most notably the iconic 1971 Ford Mustang named Eleanor—Porsches make a subtle yet noteworthy presence. Amidst the classic Mustangs, Ferraris, Astons, and Mercedes, there’s a glimpse of a late ’90s 911 996 showcased in the window of what seems to be a downtown dealership. The scene unfolds as Kip Raines, portrayed by Giovanni Ribisi, spots the car perched on a rotating platform. Without wasting any time, he effortlessly executes his plan, driving the Porsche through the front window in a daring move that transpires in less than 60 seconds.
The featured Porsche hails from a series manufactured between 1997 and 2001, boasting a timeless Porsche 6-cylinder boxer engine. Recognized for its comfort and well-appointed design, the 996 is described as a competent cruiser. With an initial power output of approximately 300 horsepower, its potency can be further elevated through higher trim levels and optional features, including turbocharging. While the 996 might not exude the same glamor as some of the other cars pilfered in this film, it remains a vehicle of considerable value, particularly enticing to those capable of making off with it in less than a minute.
Since Giovanni Ribisi’s character, brother to Cage’s Memphis Raines, had to drive through a huge glass window, safety was obviously a priority. The crew lightened the car for the stunt by using a 1978 Porsche 930 911SC chassis, replacing the body with a composite fiberglass, NOS factory original Porsche body from a 996 Carrera. Plexiglas windows were added for safety with the interior stripped down as well. The car was painted Arctic Silver Metallic and equipped with 17-inch 996 twist wheels to complete the bait and switch. The modifications left the covertly dressed Porsche a whopping 700 pounds lighter than a genuine 996 Carrera. Ironically, their mission, while successful in shedding weight, turned the initially more sought-after air-cooled Porsche into a less appealing water-cooled variant.
