Home/Buyer's Guides/964 Carrera 2 & Carrera 4
The turning point of a legend · 1988-1994Modern engineering in the classic design of the air-cooled era: technical highlights, typical weak points, corrosion spots, market prices and a buying check.
The Porsche 911 of the 964 series represents one of the most significant technical advances in the history of the 911. With the introduction of standard ABS, power steering and, for the first time, a full Four-wheel drive (Carrera 4), the 964 brought modern engineering into the classic design of the air-cooled era.
Driven by the 3.6-litre flat six with 250 PS (M64/01), the 964 offers a refinement its predecessor lacked. But the technical complexity brings new risks: from oil leaks through problems with the dual-mass flywheel to complex electronic components, buying a 964 calls for the greatest expertise: twin-plug ignition expertise, the PDAS all-wheel-drive check, the dual-mass flywheel overhaul analysis and an investment rating.
3.6-litre flat six M64/01
displacement, twin-plug ignition
as standard, plus power steering
Weight advantage, C2 over C4
Both share the M64 engine, but their drivetrain concepts redefine the driving experience entirely.
Introduced in 1990 · the purist
The 1989 debutant · the technology carrier
From the body to the complex electrics: what you need to know before buying.
Despite full galvanising, after more than 30 years the 964 is not immune to corrosion. The protection has often been compromised during repairs or glass replacement.
The 3.6-litre engine (250 PS) with twin-plug ignition is regarded as robust, but it has specific thermal issues.
Engine weak points:
Drivetrain, C2 vs C4:
The move from torsion bars to coil springs (MacPherson struts at the front, a semi-trailing arm axle at the rear) improved comfort enormously. But age eats away at the precision.
The interior is of higher quality, but electronically overloaded compared with its predecessor.
Expert knowledge on the 964 Carrera 2 and Carrera 4: detailed weak points, inspection checklists, value-enhancing options and a classification of prices for your buying decision.
Realistic estimates for running a Porsche 964.
| Item / component | Approx. cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive engine reseal (case included) | up to 8,000 |
| Crankshaft seal (gearbox side) | 500 - 1,500 |
| Dual-mass flywheel + clutch | 1,500 - 2,500 |
| Distributor belt (fitting included) | 200 - 500 |
| ABS / PDAS control unit (Carrera 4) | 1,000 - 4,000 |
| Item / component | Approx. cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Set of brake discs + pads (front and rear) | 800 - 1,200 |
| Sports suspension (Bilstein PSS10, for example) | 2,500 - 3,000 |
| Suspension bushes (complete set) | from 1,000 |
| Item / component | Approx. cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Air-conditioning repair (compressor/lines) | up to 2,000 |
| A new cabriolet roof (high end) | several thousand |
| Corrosion repair (depending on the extent) | variable |
| Variant | Price range | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Manual Coupé (C2/C4) | €65,000 - €90,000 | Low mileage and rare colours command a premium |
| Targa / cabriolet | €60,000 - €80,000 | The price depends heavily on the condition of the roof |
| Tiptronic cars | €45,000 - €65,000 | Around €10,000 - €15,000 below the manuals |
Update June 2026: the documented median sale prices from the MarqueScope SOLD archive (October 2025 to June 2026) sit at the upper edge of these ranges or above them: the Carrera 2 Coupé cell €99,700, Carrera 4 €89,000, Targa €99,850 and €104,825 respectively, series cabriolets €77,950 to €79,957. Confirmed Carrera 2 manuals achieve a median of €109,700, €19,800 more than the remaining sales including Tiptronic cars (€89,900). The table above reflects the position as at May 2025; current figures in the 964 Carrera 2 & 4 price report.
A Porsche 964 is a physical piece of cultural heritage. But in the high-ticket segment in particular, emotion often gains the upper hand. What looks like a bargain at €50,000 can quickly become a financial bottomless pit through deferred maintenance on the PDAS system or an engine reseal that has fallen due.
Invest in a professional pre-purchase inspection (PPI) including a compression test. A specialist will see whether you are investing in solid substance or in a flattered façade.
The listing, the paperwork and the price checked against real market data before you travel to view the car. A PDF dossier, usually within 24 h.
€199 incl. VAT · fixed price Assessment Level 2 · remoteDigital Audit plus follow-up questions, dealer answers, paperwork and a negotiating strategy, through to a clear buying decision.
€499 incl. VAT · audit included Assessment Level 3 · on siteA physical assessment where the car is: paint measurement, diagnostic readout, technical check, test drive and a negotiation brief.
from €790 incl. VAT · plus travelDo you already own a 911 from this model series? The Vehicle Documentation & Market Valuation puts the history, the paperwork and the market value of your car in order (€249 incl. VAT). Still looking? Then the right route is the Sourcing Enquire and name the model: Request a Digital Audit for a car from this model series.