The Porsche 968 Cabriolet 3.0 16V Tiptronic, produced between 1991 and 1995, represented the final evolution of Porsche’s front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car lineage before the introduction of the Boxster. Positioned as a more luxurious and accessible entry point into the Porsche world compared to the 911, the 968 Cabriolet offered open-top motoring with a blend of performance and refinement. The “Tiptronic” designation indicated the inclusion of Porsche’s electronically controlled automatic transmission, offering a degree of driver involvement not typically found in conventional automatics. This variant sat towards the upper end of the 968 Cabriolet range, offering a significant power upgrade over the base 2.0L models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 968 |
| Generation | 968 Cabrio |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 16V (240 Hp) Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 1991 |
| End of production | 1995 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 15.5 l/100 km (15.2 US mpg, 18.2 UK mpg, 6.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 247 km/h (153.48 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6 kg/Hp, 166.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 211.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 240 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 305 Nm @ 4100 rpm (224.96 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M44.44 |
| Engine displacement | 2990 cm3 (182.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 104 mm (4.09 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1440 kg (3174.66 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1790 kg (3946.27 lbs.) |
| Max load | 350 kg (771.62 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 225 l (7.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 510 l (18.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 74 l (19.55 US gal | 16.28 UK gal) |
| Length | 4320 mm (170.08 in.) |
| Width | 1735 mm (68.31 in.) |
| Height | 1275 mm (50.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2400 mm (94.49 in.) |
| Front track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 298 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 299 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front wheel tires | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Rear wheel tires | 225/50 R16; 255/40 R17 |
| Front wheel rims | 7J x 16; 7.5J x 17 |
| Rear wheel rims | 8J x 16; 9J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 968 Cabriolet 3.0 16V Tiptronic is the M44.44 engine, a 2,990cc naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder. This engine represents a significant upgrade from the earlier 944 and 968 models, featuring a larger displacement and a revised cylinder head with four valves per cylinder (hence the “16V” designation). The engine utilized Bosch Motronic fuel injection, managing fuel delivery and ignition timing for optimal performance and efficiency. The dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) further enhanced the engine’s breathing capabilities. The Tiptronic transmission, a four-speed automatic developed by Porsche in collaboration with ZF, allowed drivers to select gears manually via buttons on the steering wheel, providing a more engaging driving experience than a traditional automatic. This transmission featured torque converter lockup for improved efficiency at cruising speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The 968 Cabriolet 3.0 16V Tiptronic offered a refined and capable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the manual transmission versions, the Tiptronic provided smooth and relatively quick gear changes. The 240 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque provided ample power for spirited driving, with a 0-60 mph time of around 7.5 seconds. The automatic transmission altered the power delivery characteristics compared to the manual, resulting in slightly less immediate response but greater ease of use in everyday driving situations. The Tiptronic’s gear ratios were optimized for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy. Compared to the base 968 models with smaller engines, the 3.0L variant offered a noticeable improvement in performance, particularly in mid-range acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 968 Cabriolet 3.0 16V Tiptronic came standard with a well-appointed interior featuring leather upholstery, power windows, power locks, and a high-quality sound system. Optional extras included heated seats, a limited-slip differential, and upgraded audio systems. The dashboard layout was typical of Porsche at the time, with a clear and functional design. The Tiptronic models often featured a unique shift knob and steering wheel design to differentiate them from the manual transmission variants. Exterior features included a fully automatic retractable soft top, alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler.
Chassis & Braking
The 968 Cabriolet utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension, providing a good balance of handling and ride comfort. The chassis was reinforced compared to earlier models to improve rigidity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, assisted by an ABS anti-lock braking system. The braking system provided ample stopping power for the car’s weight and performance capabilities. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 968 Cabriolet 3.0 16V Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined driving experience, comfortable interior, and strong performance. However, some critics noted that the Tiptronic transmission, while convenient, didn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as the manual gearbox. Compared to the 968 Coupe, the Cabriolet offered open-top motoring at the expense of some structural rigidity. Fuel economy was reasonable for a sports car of its era, averaging around 27 mpg combined. Reliability was generally good, although maintenance costs could be high due to the car’s Porsche heritage.
Legacy
The Porsche 968 Cabriolet 3.0 16V Tiptronic remains a desirable classic car today. The M44.44 engine is known for its durability and relatively straightforward maintenance. However, as with any classic Porsche, regular maintenance and preventative repairs are essential to keep the car in good running order. The Tiptronic transmission, while not as sought after as the manual, offers a unique and comfortable driving experience. Values for well-maintained examples have been steadily increasing in recent years, reflecting the car’s growing popularity among collectors and enthusiasts. The 968 represents a high point in Porsche’s front-engine sports car development, offering a compelling blend of performance, refinement, and style.
