964 (911) C2 1989-93

964 (911) C2 1989-93 Parts & Guide

The Porsche 964 (911) C2 1989-93 sits in a sweet spot: classic air-cooled character, but with a big step forward in usability. This guide pulls together real-world ownership notes, the issues enthusiasts tend to encounter over time, and the areas people commonly refresh to keep the car dependable and enjoyable to drive

Model Background

The 964 represented a significant leap forward, with approximately 85% of its components being newly designed compared to its predecessor, the Carrera 3.2. Initially introduced in 1989, the first 964s were exclusively all-wheel-drive “Carrera 4” models. Porsche later expanded the lineup in 1990 with the rear-wheel-drive Carrera 2 variant. Both versions were offered as coupés, Targas, or Cabriolets.

Notably, the 964 Carrera marked the final generation to feature the traditional removable Targa roof until the introduction of the 991 in 2011 (with interim models 993, 996, and 997 utilising a complex glass-roof “greenhouse” system instead). Under the hood, the 964 used the naturally aspirated M64 engine with 3.6-litre flat-6 displacement.

Porsche also revised the suspension, moving to coil springs and shock absorbers in place of torsion bars. Power steering and ABS brakes were introduced as standard features for the first time in the 911 lineup. Aerodynamic changes included flush-mounted bumpers and fog lamps, plus an electric rear spoiler that raised at speeds over 50 mph (80 km/h) and retracted at lower speeds.

Inside, improvements included standard dual airbags for all North American production 1990 models onward, automatic climate control, and revised instrumentation tied to a central warning system. In 1990, Porsche introduced the Tiptronic automatic transmission for the 964 Carrera 2, with adaptive electronic management and manual control capability.

Why Owners Love It

Enthusiasts tend to value the way 964 (911) C2 1989-93 rewards methodical maintenance. The appeal is often in the day-to-day experience: a connected feel, straightforward ownership, and the satisfaction that comes from keeping the basics in good order. The rear-wheel-drive C2 in particular is often chosen for its more “purist” feel, with owners typically aiming to preserve the car’s analogue character rather than reinvent it.

Common Issues and Symptoms

With age, most problems show themselves gradually rather than dramatically. These are common symptoms owners report — use them as guidance and confirm fitment and diagnosis before ordering parts.

• Rear suspension knocks (often pointing to tired bushes or worn joints)
• Tramlining that can point to worn front bushes, incorrect alignment, or geometry that needs attention
• Oil seepage from engine seals
• Ignition-related misfires
• Brake squeal or judder depending on use and storage
• Electrical gremlins such as erratic gauges or warning lights (often linked to low voltage or corroded connections)
• Power steering leaks appearing with age

Popular Upgrades and Refreshes

Most owners aim for a strong baseline rather than chasing numbers. These themes reflect the areas people commonly refresh to keep the car consistent and confidence-inspiring.

• Suspension arms and bushes to tighten up feel and reduce unwanted movement
• Dampers refreshed to restore body control and ride quality
• Proper alignment and geometry setup to address tramlining and uneven tyre wear
• Braking components renewed to restore consistent pedal feel and reduce noise or vibration
• Engine sealing work where leaks are present, keeping things cleaner and easier to monitor
• Ignition maintenance to avoid intermittent misfires and rough running as components age
• Subtle, reversible changes that keep the original character intact

Parts to Check First

When something feels off, experienced owners usually start with the fundamentals before swapping expensive components. This checklist is general guidance to help you prioritise checks.

• Battery condition and charging health (low voltage can cause strange electrical behaviour)
• Main earths/grounds and visible connector condition for corrosion or looseness
• Service-baseline items such as filters and spark plugs if history is unknown
• Ignition components if you’re chasing a misfire (check condition and signs of age or contamination)
• Vacuum hoses and intake connections for splits or leaks
• Front suspension bushes and joints if the car wanders, traml ines, or feels vague
• Rear suspension bushes and mounts if knocks or clunks show up over bumps
• Brake discs and pads for wear, corrosion, and signs that could cause judder
• Brake fluid condition and any evidence of leaks around lines or connections
• Power steering hoses and joints for dampness or drips

Practical Tips

A methodical approach usually saves time and avoids unnecessary replacements. Use fault information as a guide, then confirm with basic checks before changing parts.

• If the car traml ines, start with alignment and inspection of front bushes before assuming tyres are the only cause.
• When chasing oil leaks, clean and monitor first so you can see what’s active rather than historic.
• A misfire under load can be ignition-related, but it’s worth ruling out basic electrical health (battery voltage and grounds) first.
• If you want a meaningful handling refresh, many owners focus on bushes, dampers, and geometry setup as a sensible foundation.
• Brake noise on low-use cars isn’t unusual; check for surface corrosion and uneven pad material transfer before replacing major parts.
• When ordering parts, confirm your exact fitment details (body style, transmission type, and any relevant market differences).

Explore Parts at Design911

Filter by 964 (911) C2 1989-93 and then by category to narrow down to the right parts for your Porsche. Use the notes above as a starting point, and confirm fitment using the details shown for each item.