2004 PORSCHE 911 (996) CARRERA 4S CABRIOLET

This Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet is a superb example of the marque’s all-weather open-top sports car. The 996 generation of the Carrera 4S was the first generation to use a 3.6-litre water-cooled flat-six engine, producing 315bhp and 273lb-ft of torque. Power is marshalled to all four wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox. The odometer reads 78,005 miles.

First registered on 25 May 2004, this original, UK-market car has been owned by the current vendor for a year. There are three previous keepers on the log book.

The Carrera 4S sat just below the Turbo in the 996-generation 911 model range, sharing the Turbo’s wide body, suspension and braking systems. The Carrera 4S could be identified by its full-width rear reflector strip – a unique feature in the 996 range.

Resplendent in the rare shade of Carmon Red metallic, the paint is reported to be in generally excellent condition, retaining a deep red glossy finish. There is a minor nick in the passenger door handle, as well as some scratches on the optional hard top from its time in storage.

The black fabric convertible top is in good order, with no rips or tears, and the mechanism opens and closes correctly. The vendor does note that the roof lining needs reattaching over the rear hinges. It rides on the original 18-inch ‘Twist’ alloy wheels, which are in great shape and retain the correct ‘4S’ centre caps.

The cabin of the Carrera 4S is upholstered in black leather, with electrically-adjustable front comfort seats embossed with the Porsche crest. All of the leather is in good condition, with only modest signs of usage. There are some minor scratches from normal use visible near the handbrake cable and centre console trim. A factory-fit PCM system is joined by a six-CD changer and climate control, with the vendor reporting that all electrical accessories are in working order throughout.

This Carrera 4S was last serviced in February 2020 at 77,742 miles by Porsche Mid-Sussex, which also included renewal of the brake fluid. Prior to this, the car was serviced in May 2017 at 72,700 miles by BS Motorsport, and in July 2014 at 61,558 miles by JZM Porsche. A full summary of the service history follows at the end of the listing.

During the vendor’s ownership, the front suspension strut top mounts, bearings and bump stops have also been replaced, along with the offside track rod end. A full wheel geometry setup has also been undertaken.

The most recent MOT test was on 19 August 2020 at 77,957 miles. This resulted in a pass, with advisories noted for some corrosion on the brake lines. Wearing matching Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres all round, these are in good condition with at least 5-6mm of tread remaining.

The vendor notes that this example had its engine replaced under warranty by Porsche at 20,000 miles with supporting paperwork. Taking this into consideration, the current engine has covered just 58,000 miles, with no problems reported since. The only change to the factory specification is the addition of Dansk exhaust silencers. The car was originally specified with a sports exhaust system.

This handsome and well-specified 996 will reach its next owner with its full complement of owners’ handbooks as well as stamped service history and various supporting invoices. The cherished number plate seen on the vehicle will also be included in the sale. The car has been stored on a trickle charger for most of the last year, having only been used on the odd sunny day, and was detailed prior to being stored indoors under a fitted car cover – which will also be included.

Offering a high level of originality, accessible all-weather performance and wind-in-your-hair satisfaction, this 996-generation Porsche 911 Carrera 4S is a well-maintained example of a modern classic. It would be a smart addition to any collection of European sports cars, though is best enjoyed on a summer jaunt with the roof down.

Summary of maintenance history

• 6,460 miles 06.07.05 by Porsche Guildford
• 18,582 miles 07.12.06 by Porsche Hatfield
• 20,890 miles 02.05.07 by Porsche Hatfield (complete exchange engine under warranty)
• 30,613 miles 07.07.08 by Porsche Hatfield
• 37,210 miles 26.05.09 by Porsche Hatfield
• 48,382 miles 25.01.11 by Porsche Hatfield
• 59,000 miles 26.11.13 by Formula One AutoCentre (Brake Fluid + x2 Tyres Only)
• 61,558 miles 17.07.14 by JZM Porsche (+ new AC Condensers)
• New Ignition Coil Packs in July 2015 by JZM Porsche
• 72,742 miles 12.05.17 by BS Motorsport (Service + Clutch Kit)
• 75,796 miles 14.08.18 by DS Automotives (Rear Silencers + AC Front to Rear pipes)
• 76,986 miles 04.03.19 by Sheffield Supercar Centre
• 77,742 miles 03.02.20 by Porsche Mid Sussex (Major Service + Brake Fluid)
• 77,800 miles 19.08.20 by Precision Porsche (Front strut top mounts, bearings and bump stops replaced)

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence through HPI checks and MOT history. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.