Porsche, 911, 996.1, Carrera (1998-2001)

Engine and Performance:

• Type: Water-cooled flat-six cylinder boxer engine
• Displacement: 3.4 liters (3336cc)
• Power output: 296 horsepower @ 5900 rpm (Carrera S) or 285 horsepower @ 5800 rpm (Carrera), with a torque of 266 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm
• Transmission options: 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic (Tiptronic) and the optional Tiptronic semi-automatic transmission
• Rear axle ratio: 3.46, 3.55 or 3.91

Chassis and Brakes:

• Type: All-aluminum construction with rear-engine placement
• Drive type: Rear-wheel drive
• Wheelbase length: 2341 mm (92 inches)
• Track width: 1502 mm (59 inches) at the front, 1527 mm (60 inches) at the rear
• Brake system features large 320mm vented discs with four-piston calipers in the front and single-piston floating caliper in the rear

Exterior Design and Features:

• Bodywork is made of aluminum for reduced weight
• The Carrera model features a distinctive rounded nose and slightly raised hood scoop, compared to other models
• Headlight design varies by year; for 1998-1999, it uses the classic rectangular shape with dual headlights per side
• For 2000 and onwards, Porsche adopted its "new face" design with a single, larger headlamp on each side, a more angular hood scoop, and revised taillights
• Wheels: available alloy wheels include 17 inches for Carrera S models or 16 inches for the standard Carrera

Interior Design and Features:

• Interior materials and designs vary across trims but generally feature leather-covered seats with high-quality trim and instrumentation
• Electronic systems include a radio, driver's side airbag, electric windows, cruise control, and central locking system; options can include items like an electric sunroof, climate control, audio upgrades, and more advanced safety features

Production Numbers and Variants:

• The 996.1 generation was produced from late 1997 to early 2002
• Total production for the Carrera variants is less than 10,000 units; exact numbers by year are not widely available but suggest low to moderate volume compared to some of Porsche's other models

Market and Cultural Impact:

• The 996.1 generation marked a significant departure from traditional air-cooled flat-six engine and body style for the Carrera
• This change garnered both enthusiasm and criticism among enthusiasts, some seeing it as an evolution while others preferred the old setup
• Despite initial concerns about character and performance compared to its predecessors, the Carrera of this generation has developed a loyal following over time