Introduced for the 1999 model year, Porsche’s 996-generation 911 marked the first time the marque’s iconic model utilised a water-cooled engine configuration. It was a risky, though altogether necessary transition for Porsche to make due to ever-increasing power gains which were being realised by their competitors, together with stricter emissions standards. The marque’s initial water-cooled production engine was developed from the Hans Metzger-designed blueprint found in its famous homologation special, the 911 GT1 released in 1997.

While the silhouette of the type 996 carried on the traditional look of the 911, designer Grant Larson introduced several significant updates that included a more aggressively raked windscreen, a completely retrimmed interior, and a new headlight design. In 2002, Porsche introduced the 911 Carrera 4S, an all-wheel-drive variant that borrowed the wide-body look, as well as the brakes, front fascia, and suspension of the contemporaneous 911 Turbo.

By 2003, this exceptional American market Carrera 4S had been delivered to its first owner. The model’s water-cooled engine had increased in size to 3.6 litres of displacement and was been further updated with a new crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, “VarioCam Plus” adjustable valve timing, Lokasil-treated cylinders, and Bosch Motronic ME 7.8 engine management system. 

Delivered new to El Paso, TX on 10 May 2003, this Carrera 4S is made evermore notable on account of its desirable and extensive specification. Its long list of factory equipment listed on an accompanying Porsche build report includes Carrara White paint over a Savanna Beige leather interior, elective removal of the sunroof, Tiptronic S transmission, 18-inch Techno Sport wheels, and stainless-steel exhaust system.

Stepping across the Carrera-inscribed door sills, it is plain to see that the car’s interior is richly furnished with comfort-spec power seats featuring headrests embroidered with the Porsche crest, as well as a special-order trim package which added white painted interior-and-beige leather finishes to the gear selector, handbrake lever, and centre console. Occupants are also sure to benefit from the electronic climate control, remote six-disc CD changer, and Bose sound system.

Since being bought it has been sparingly used. It currently indicates just 16,500 miles at time of cataloguing, and would be a tremendous, accessible offering for the Porsche enthusiast looking to experience a surefooted, naturally aspirated 996 for themselves.