There was a lot going on in 1989 for Porsche and its 911. The model itself was simultaneously celebrating its 25th anniversary while also being whisked off into the sunset. That anniversary was commemorated in typical Porsche fashion with a special edition of the 3.2 Carrera. 1989 also saw the 930 finally get fitted with a 5-speed transmission and the Speedster made its return after a 30 year hiatus. In the midst of these movements, Porsche was set to introduce an all-new 911 showcasing its first major redesign in over 15 years, and to even more shifting, they would not only introduce a new design, but an all-new 911 model: the all-wheel drive Carrera 4. I’ve always found this to be a particularly bold and somewhat curious strategy, especially considering that the standard rear-drive Carrera 2 would not debut at the same time. Perhaps it was to save space for the outgoing 3.2 Carrera rather than bringing on its immediate successor. Either way, the 964 was born and though it lead a somewhat short life and itself would be completely redesigned in 1995 it feels as if momentum is now working in its favor and 911 enthusiasts are beginning to appreciate this model to a much greater degree. I count myself amongst that group. The example we have here comes from that introductory year: a Guards Red 1989 Porsche 911 Carrera 4, located in Miami, with 130,800 miles on it.
