Retesting the 964

Several weeks passed, and with no proactive updates or even an apology from the dealer, TAKURO grew frustrated as the car wasn’t returned. Finally, the 964 was re-delivered.

This time, the warning lights, meters, wheel balance, seat, and gasoline leak were all properly repaired. The gas leak was caused by deterioration of a gasket on top of the tank, which only became apparent when the tank was full.

Even with such extensive work, buying a used air-cooled Porsche means expecting some issues. Anyone considering a classic or air-cooled Porsche should be prepared for this level of potential problems.

If I were to advise someone buying an air-cooled Porsche, I’d say it’s inevitable that issues will arise, so don’t expect perfection. Instead, choose your dealer based on their sincere response and communication speed. As I always say, when buying used cars, the quality of the shop and people is even more important than the car itself.

The exquisitely restored 964 now radiated a wonderful aura.

I immediately took it for a spin on my usual course.

Difference Between 16-Inch and 17-Inch Wheels

Starting the engine, I was again surprised by the near-new level of quietness, even feeling a luxury akin to the 993. Once moving, the engine was very torquey. The 17-inch wheels felt significantly different from my 16-inch ones, with a much heavier, more substantial ride.

I was honestly amazed by this difference. When I bought my 964, WRP told me there’s a notable difference between 16- and 17-inch wheels, but I never imagined it would be this pronounced.

The 16-inch wheels offer a light, nimble feel from acceleration, with exceptional agility for lane changes and lateral movements. However, their grip and steering response under lateral G are inferior to the 17-inch wheels.

The 17-inch wheels feel heavier and more substantial from the start. Interestingly, I also drove a 993 Carrera S at the same time and was surprised by how similar the 17-inch 964 felt to it. The cornering grip and stability were excellent, though the rear grip felt a bit too strong, making the overall balance slightly understeery.

This reminded me of when I upgraded from 15-inch to 16-inch wheels on my E36 BMW 318is — a similar sensation. Nowadays, a one-inch difference isn’t so noticeable, but back then it made a big impact.

The engine’s revving feel is still a bit stiff but very responsive and powerful. The classic air-cooled engine’s characteristic “shaaaan!” sound is yet to fully develop, but after about 10,000 km more, it should settle in nicely.

The shift feel is excellent and smooth. Compared to modern Porsches, the stroke is a bit longer but with solid detents. It’s not quite the old Porsche synchro feel but very pleasant.

Personally, it takes a little getting used to when shifting into second gear, but once accustomed, it’s no problem.

The suspension has Bilstein shocks and is lowered about 1–2 cm, so the ride differs slightly from stock. The larger tires add a bit of firmness, but overall the ride is comfortable. The steering is sharper at the start of the turn and doesn’t require as much front-end weight transfer to corner as stock.

Tiptronic vs. Manual

Driving the 964 with a manual transmission felt very fresh to me.

Regarding the difference from the Tiptronic (automatic), honestly, the power feel is almost identical. In fact, the Tiptronic lets you press the accelerator quickly and freely, and once you get used to it, you can shift gears up and down just by how fast you press the gas, sometimes making it feel faster.

That said, when it comes to speed on tight mountain roads, the manual with its five gears wins. Especially the acceleration in second gear is quicker with the manual, so it’s likely faster in tight corners.

The Charm of the 964

The 964 is a 911 you want to drive endlessly. Its reliability is improved enough to feel mentally reassuring, and it’s comfortable. Yet, it remains a true air-cooled Porsche that strongly preserves the original 911’s character, striking a perfect balance between classic and modern.

After this test drive, I also drove my own 964 again and felt that I want to cherish and keep this car for a long time. The 964 is a masterpiece — it has the classic feel missing in the 993 but also the freshness not found in pre-930 911s. That is the 964.