MODEL HISTORY

Porsche’s 993 was a version of the company’s iconic 911 model, produced between 1993 and 1998. It was the last air-cooled Porsche, and is therefore often described by 911 enthusiasts as the last ‘true’ 911.

Compared to the previous 964, the 993 had wider and flatter front wings, smoother bumpers front and rear, a shorter and higher front luggage compartment lid, and a larger automatically extending rear spoiler. The front headlights were now more obviously sloped, giving the car a much more modern appearance, while the taillights were positioned higher on the body.

Mechanically, improvements included an all-new multi-link rear suspension mounted on an aluminium subframe, six-speed manual transmission, refined optional all-wheel-drive system, larger brakes with drilled discs, revised power steering and a new dual-flow exhaust.

The 993 Carrera RS, standing for ‘Rennsport’ (or ‘Race Sport’ in English), was a lightweight version of the base Carrera, produced in model years 1995 and 1996. It was stripped of anything that could be deemed unnecessary – including the headlight washers, sound proofing and rear seats – meaning around 100kg was shaved off the weight of the Carrera.

Changes on the outside included a non-retractable ‘whale tail’ spoiler and lightweight three-piece 18-inch aluminium ‘speedline’ wheels. Inside, special lightweight racing seats were fitted in the front with simple door cards. The only factory options were an even bigger rear spoiler and roll cage

The RS was never certified for sale to the United States, but was approved for normal street use in many other countries around the world. Only 1,014 were built, and its consequent rarity has ensured an ever-increasing market value.

Equipment

C08 Country Specification, Guards Red, M002 Touring with M471 Clubsport Front Spoiler and Adjustable Rear Wing, 197 Stronger Battery, 451 Reduced Radio Preparation, 562 Driver And Passenger Airbags, 573 Air Conditioning, 651 Electric Windows, 18-Inch Carrera RS Speedline Wheels, Leather Bucket Seats, 6-Speed Manual Transmission, Limited-Slip Differential, Power Steering

EXTERIOR

Guards Red gives the 993 RS exactly the sort of presence its shape calls for. The compact body, three-piece Speedline wheels and substantial M471 rear wing form a combination rooted firmly in Porsche’s mid-1990s competition cars, without losing the clean proportions that made the 993 such an enduring design.

Following its period in storage, the car was treated to a full bare-metal repaint as part of its fresh restoration, with the body carefully stripped and rebuilt using new seals, rubbers and selected trim pieces. The result is a finish that feels fresh and properly resolved rather than over-restored.

Looking as though it has just rolled off the production line, the Guards Red paintwork has a deep and even finish throughout. The trim, seals and exterior details all sit cleanly against the body, giving the car a freshly restored appearance without losing the character that suits a 993 RS so well.

INTERIOR

The lightweight cabin has exactly the sort of pared-back feel you want from a 993 RS. The Recaro bucket seats remain the focal point, trimmed in black leather with grey perforated centres and backed by Guards Red shells that tie neatly into the exterior.

A three-spoke steering wheel sits ahead of Porsche’s familiar five-dial instrument layout, while the aluminium-topped six-speed gear lever, lightweight door cards and red fabric pull straps give the interior a distinctly RS character. Factory air conditioning adds a welcome degree of usability without taking away from the stripped-back feel.

Seat shells were refinished before the original leather coverings were carefully refitted. A new carpet set was also installed, with the dashboard, door trims and remaining interior details cleaned and refreshed throughout. The result is a cabin that feels properly restored while still retaining the original character and honesty of the car.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

The 3.8-litre flat-six represents the ultimate naturally aspirated development of Porsche’s road-going air-cooled engine. Producing 300bhp and paired with a six-speed manual, it gave the lighter RS a quoted top speed of 172 mph while retaining the response and mechanical character for which these cars are now so highly regarded.

Its recent recommissioning went considerably further than a routine service. The engine and gearbox were removed and separated, allowing the clutch assembly to be inspected, cleaned and lubricated. A major engine service included new cam-cover gaskets, spark plugs, ignition leads, distributor caps and rotors.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES

The 18-inch Speedline split-rim wheels are an essential part of the 993 RS shape, filling the arches without overwhelming the compact proportions of the car. Their etched branding remains visible, with matching Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tyres fitted at each corner.

Red Porsche-branded brake callipers sit behind the wheels and were removed and refreshed as part of the recent work. New front discs, pads, wear sensors and brake hoses were installed, while the suspension components were removed, cleaned, inspected and refitted.

HISTORY FILE

First registered in 1995, this Carrera RS spent the early part of its life in Japan, where it was maintained through the established Porsche network and accompanied by a collection of original Japanese documentation. Its service book, inspection records and later export paperwork provide a clear picture of the car throughout its time there.

The RS was subsequently exported from Japan and brought to the UK, where it later entered a prolonged period of storage. After spending many years largely unused, the decision was made to treat the car to a comprehensive programme of restoration and recommissioning before returning to the road.

That process culminated in an extensive restoration and recommissioning in 2026. 173 hours devoted to the car, addressing the bodywork, engine, gearbox, clutch, braking system, suspension, interior and air conditioning. The body was stripped to bare metal and refinished in Guards Red, while the mechanical components were carefully inspected, serviced and refreshed as required. Original pieces were retained wherever practical, giving the finished car a comprehensive restoration while preserving the character and specification of the original RS.

the car was treated to a comprehensive programme of restoration and recommissioning before returning to the road.