996 - The moment everything changed.

The 996 is an icon that was initially born under a critical star and now, over two decades later, shines in a new light. Its introduction in 1997 marked a profound turning point in the history of this series: For the first time, water-cooled engines were used – a technical sacrilege for many purists. But it was the design that galvanized the fan community. The famous oval headlight shape, which had characterized the model for decades, was replaced by the "fried egg" headlights – a bold design decision that still polarizes opinions today, but is now gaining more and more fans. With its simple, almost timeless lines and the smooth transitions that characterize the profile of the 996, one can say today: The design was ahead of its time. What was considered a radical departure at the time is now appreciated as an expression of purist pragmatism. The 996 dispenses with unnecessary embellishments and, with its clear design language, remains true to the brand's essence. Especially in retrospect, enthusiasts increasingly appreciate the understatement of this model and the uncompromising approach that was maintained despite the bold steps. The supposedly "critical" design proves to be a style-defining one – an automotive classic that dares to be different and has proven itself precisely because of this. On an emotional level, the 996 embodies the last generation of a largely analog driving experience. This car offers a direct, unadulterated connection between driver and machine – without the digital filters and aids that often separate today's sports cars from the road. The hydraulics of the steering wheel, the weight of the gearshift, and the immediate feedback of the accelerator pedal create an authentic, tangible experience that modern vehicles can hardly match. The 996 is therefore not just a sports car, but an experience. Anyone behind the wheel of this vehicle feels the mechanics and the rough corners that come to life with every drive – it conveys a sense of freedom that only analog cars can achieve with this intensity.

With its simple, almost timeless lines and the smooth transitions that characterize the profile of the 996, it can be said today that the design was ahead of its time. What was considered a radical break at the time is now valued as an expression of purist pragmatism. The 996 dispenses with unnecessary decorations and remains true to the Porsche core with its clear design language. Especially in retrospect, enthusiasts increasingly appreciate the understatement of this model and the uncompromising attitude that Porsche has maintained despite the bold steps. The supposedly "critical" design proves to be style-defining - an automobile classic that dares to be different and has proven itself precisely because of this.

On an emotional level, the 996 embodies the last generation of a largely analogue driving experience. This car offers a direct, unvarnished connection between driver and machine - without the digital filters and aids that often separate today's sports cars from the road. The hydraulics of the steering wheel, the weight of the gearshift and the immediate feedback of the accelerator pedal create an authentic, tangible experience that modern vehicles can hardly offer. The 996 is therefore not just a sports car, but an experience. Anyone who gets behind the wheel of this 911 can feel the mechanics and the rough edges that come to life with every drive - it conveys a feeling of freedom that only analogue cars can achieve with this intensity.

Anyone who honestly commits to the 996 will never want another one.

- Werk96

But what makes the 996 particularly exciting today is its enormous potential for targeted optimization. Whether engine, chassis, or aerodynamics – the 996 platform offers ample scope for refinements that can elevate the car's character to a new level. With the right eye for detail and targeted modifications, this model can be transformed into a high-performance sports car that is in no way inferior to modern vehicles. At the same time, the options remain diverse: Some owners opt for a subtle performance upgrade, while others convert their 996 into an uncompromising track tool. The engine is particularly susceptible to tuning measures that give it more power and agility without diluting the vehicle's fundamental characteristics.

The 996 may have taken some time to enter the enthusiast spotlight. Today, however, it's considered a valuable canvas, valued not only for its unique design history and analog character, but also as a platform for expressing one's taste and driving passion. There's more to a 996 than meets the eye—it's an underrated classic with potential that continues to captivate its drivers and the automotive world.

Werk96 Automotive – The vision of the perfect 996

At Werk96 Automotive, we have one vision: to create the perfect 996. For us, the 996 isn't just a classic, but a platform with untold potential – ready to be revitalized through thoughtful and targeted optimization. We believe in the 996 and its ability to elevate the essence of sporty driving to a new level.

Our optimizations go into the deepest detail: From the engine and transmission to the wheels and body, as well as the exhaust system and interior, we refine every aspect of the vehicle to give it the ultimate balance of performance, style, and authenticity. We rely on a sophisticated modular system that allows every customer to create their own tailor-made version of the 996. This allows us to cater to individual wishes and make each vehicle unique – a dream car that perfectly suits its driver.

Werk96 Automotive stands for the passion to unleash the full potential of the 996 and bring it to perfection.