Overview

An upgrade in engine size from 1991cc to 2195 gave the 911S a useful 10bhp hike in power to 180bhp. Unlike the 911E, though, the S didn’t gain such an improvement in low-down power and torque, so you still had to keep the revs up above 5500rpm to get the full benefit of the extra horsepower. If nothing else it made it a lot of fun to drive, if somewhat less practical than the E for everyday use.

In other respects, the C and D series 911S followed the same mechanical and trim improvements as the 911E. As before, though, the S had conventional front suspension, with the hydropneumatic system being an option for those people wanting extra comfort. What was no longer an option for the 911S was Sportomatic transmission, Porsche figured that anyone buying the sports model would want a five-speed manual gearbox.

Some people today say that you’re better off buying a contemporary 911E or even a 911T over the 2.2-litre S because they are more driveable cars. However, others enjoy having to keep the revs up and make full use of the five-speed gearbox.

How to spot

• Body as 911E
• New-style door handles with hidden trigger levers
• Aluminium engine compartment cover
• 911S badge on engine compartment cover

Variations

Targa: The 911S was available with the open Targa roof. This was the same as the contemporary 911E version. As before, though, the less rigid body wasn’t idea for this more powerful and sporty car.

Specification

Capacity: 2195cc

Compression ratio: 9.8:1

Maximum Power: 180bhp @ 6500rpm

Maximum Torque: 199Nm @ 5200rpm

Brakes: Front: 282mm discs; rear: 290mm discs

Suspension: Front: MacPherson struts with telescopic dampers and torsion bar springs; rear: trailing wishbones with telescopic dampers and transverse torsion bar. Front and rear antiroll bars

Wheels & Tyres: Front and rear: 15x6J with 185HR tyres

Length: 4163mm

Width: 1610mm

Weight: >0kg

Did you know?

When new, the 2.2-litre 911s had a sticker in the rear window. This was in the shape of a flat-six engine and had the number 2.2 on it.

0-60 mph: 6.6 seconds; top speed: 155 mph