Used 1968 Porsche 911

1968 Porsche 911: A Refined Evolution of an Icon

The 1968 Porsche 911 marked a significant, albeit subtle, evolution for the already lauded German sports car. Building upon the foundational brilliance of the original 911, the 1968 model introduced key enhancements that refined its performance, safety, and usability, laying further groundwork for the enduring legacy of the 911 lineage. While outwardly similar to its predecessors, the 1968 model year saw several important technical advancements and design tweaks that made it a more potent and desirable machine.

Engine and Performance: More Power, Better Breathing

The heart of the 1968 911 continued to be its iconic air-cooled, flat-six engine. For this model year, Porsche made significant strides in increasing displacement and improving intake and exhaust systems.

• Engine Options: The primary engine offered was the 2.0-liter (1991cc) flat-six. However, crucial for 1968, Porsche introduced the 2.2-liter (2195cc) engine as an option in some markets or as an upgrade, significantly boosting power and torque.
• Increased Power Output: The standard 2.0-liter engine typically produced around 130 horsepower. The introduction of the larger displacement engine, along with improved carburetion (often Weber or Solex units) and exhaust manifold designs, pushed power figures up, with the 2.2-liter variants often offering around 150-160 horsepower. This resulted in noticeably improved acceleration and a more engaging driving experience.
• Carburetion: While earlier models often used Solex carburetors, the 1968 models saw a continued reliance on twin downdraft Weber carburetors (often 40IDA) or Solex equivalents, meticulously tuned for optimal performance.
• Cooling: Porsche's mastery of air-cooled engine technology continued. The rear-mounted engine was efficiently cooled by a large fan driven by a belt from the crankshaft, ensuring reliable performance even under strenuous conditions.

Chassis and Handling: Refined Precision

The 911's reputation for exceptional handling was further solidified in 1968. Porsche continued to refine the chassis and suspension to deliver a driving experience that was both thrilling and precise.

• Suspension: The independent suspension system remained a key contributor to the 911's renowned roadholding. This typically consisted of front McPherson struts and rear trailing arms with transverse torsion bars.
• Wheelbase Extension: A significant change for 1968 was the extension of the wheelbase by approximately 2 inches (around 50mm). This was a strategic move to mitigate the inherent oversteer characteristics of earlier 911s, particularly at higher speeds. This wheelbase extension, coupled with refined suspension geometry and potentially updated shock absorbers and anti-roll bars, resulted in a more stable and predictable ride, making the car more forgiving and easier to control for a wider range of drivers.
• Braking System: The 1968 911 featured a robust four-wheel disc brake system, which was a significant advantage over many of its contemporaries, providing strong and consistent stopping power.
• Wheels and Tires: The car typically rolled on 15-inch alloy wheels, often the iconic "Fuchs" forged alloy wheels, wrapped in performance-oriented tires that offered excellent grip.

Body and Design: Subtle Sophistication

The unmistakable silhouette of the Porsche 911 remained largely consistent, a testament to its timeless design. However, the 1968 model year incorporated several subtle but important updates.

• Body Shell: The characteristic "long-hood" design with its steeply raked rear window and iconic headlights remained the defining visual elements.
• Bumpers: For 1968, in many markets, the 911 featured larger, more substantial chrome-plated steel bumpers with rubber or plastic overriders. This was often in response to evolving safety regulations in various countries, particularly in the United States. While some purists might lament the slight deviation from the purer earlier lines, these bumpers enhanced occupant safety.
• Interior Enhancements: The interior continued to offer a driver-focused cockpit. Key enhancements for 1968 included:
  • Revised dashboard layout: Minor tweaks to instrumentation and controls for improved ergonomics.
  • Improved seat design: Potentially offering enhanced comfort and support.
  • Safety features: Introduction of or improvements to seat belts and potentially a padded dashboard for increased occupant safety, reflecting growing safety consciousness.

Model Variants: Expanding the Family

While the core 911 remained the focus, other variants were available, catering to different performance and aesthetic preferences.

• 911 Targa: The innovative Targa version, introduced in 1967, continued to be a popular choice for those seeking open-air motoring with the security of a roll bar.
• 911 S: The "S" (Super) model, typically featuring higher compression pistons, larger carburetors, and often specific camshafts, offered a significant performance upgrade over the standard 911, pushing power figures towards 160-170 horsepower.
• 911 L (Lux): A more luxuriously appointed model, often intended for specific markets, offering additional comfort and trim features.

Legacy and Significance: A Defining Year

The 1968 Porsche 911 represents a pivotal year in the model's development. The wheelbase extension was a crucial step in refining the car's handling dynamics, making it more approachable and versatile. The continued power increases and subtle interior and exterior refinements solidified its position as one of the world's premier sports cars. For collectors and enthusiasts, the 1968 911 is a highly sought-after classic, embodying the perfect blend of classic 911 aesthetics, exciting performance, and a significant leap forward in driving refinement. It stands as a testament to Porsche's relentless pursuit of automotive excellence.