VIDEO: Driving the Underrated Porsche 968

Why the 968 deserves a second look

Photo courtesy of Winding Road Magazine

This video from Winding Road Magazine follows a test drive of the often-overlooked 1995 Porsche 968, a front-engine Porsche that evolved from the 944 but arrived during an uncertain period in the brand’s history. As Porsche explored alternatives to the 911 and experimented with front-engine GT cars, the 968 emerged as a refined “baby grand tourer” rather than a pure sports car.

Powered by a large 3.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder, the 968 prioritizes torque and drivability over outright power. The host highlights distinctive touches such as pop-up headlights, a removable electrically assisted roof panel, and a six-speed manual gearbox—an upgrade over the 944. Despite some transmission noise and noticeable body roll, the car feels surprisingly easy and pleasant to drive, with a neutral, playful chassis and strong braking performance.

Originally priced around $56,000 in 1995, the 968 struggled to justify itself against the 911, which helps explain its relative rarity today. That lack of mainstream appeal, however, now makes it an intriguing and undervalued piece of Porsche history for enthusiasts seeking a distinctive classic with real-world usability.

Source: Winding Road Magazine