Estimated Price: £50,000 - £60,000

Introduced in 1994, the 993 occupies a unique place in the history of the 911, representing the final evolution of the air-cooled era. It combines the unmistakable character of Porsche's traditional flat-six with a comprehensively redesigned chassis, improved refinement and styling that remains one of the most admired of any 911 generation. By the end of production in 1998, the 993 had become the last chapter of an engineering philosophy that had defined Porsche for over three decades, cementing its status as one of the marque's most sought-after modern classics.

This, late-production, 1997 example benefits from the desirable M64/21 3.6-litre VarioRam engine, introduced for the 1996 model year. Producing 285bhp, the VarioRam induction system improved both performance and flexibility, while power is delivered through the G50 six-speed manual gearbox, a combination widely regarded as the definitive specification for a 911.

Supplied new to the UK in C16-market specification, the car remains finished in its original Ocean Blue Metallic paintwork, complemented by a blue leather interior, blue carpets and matching dark blue convertible hood. Factory equipment includes electrically adjustable comfort seats, air conditioning, a top-tinted windscreen and the desirable 17-inch Cup 2 alloy wheels, presenting exactly as one would hope from an unmodified, correctly specified 993.

Equally impressive is the car's provenance. Acquired by the current owner in January 2008, it has remained in the same careful ownership for the past 18 years, during which time it has been sparingly used, dry stored and maintained without regard to cost. Showing just 42,836 miles from new, the Porsche is accompanied by a complete Porsche main dealer service history, having been maintained exclusively within the official Porsche dealer network throughout its life. Servicing has predominantly been entrusted to Porsche Centre Bournemouth during the current ownership, while every replacement component has been sourced directly from Porsche themselves. The comprehensive history file includes the original leather document wallet, owner's manuals, stamped service books, invoices and an extensive MOT record documenting the car's careful long-term ownership.

Presented in outstanding original condition throughout, the car retains an originality that is becoming increasingly difficult to find. Its low mileage is reflected in the condition of both the exterior and interior, while the consistent servicing and sympathetic ownership ensure it drives every bit as well as its appearance suggests.

With just three former keepers, an exceptional maintenance record, late production VarioRam specification and the increasingly desirable combination of rear-wheel drive, air cooling and a six-speed manual gearbox, this beautifully preserved 993 Cabriolet represents an increasingly rare opportunity to acquire one of the finest examples of Porsche's final air-cooled 911.