Porsche 968 Options & Equipment Codes
The Ultimate Guide to Porsche 968 Standard Equipment Build Codes and Option Codes
The Porsche 968, produced from 1992 to 1995, represents the final evolution of Porsche’s transaxle sports cars, blending 944 Turbo performance with refined styling and updated technology. While the 968 is often praised for its naturally aspirated 3.0L four-cylinder engine, balanced handling, and daily drivability, many enthusiasts overlook the impact that factory options and equipment codes have on a car’s desirability and value. From high-performance packages like M030 Sport Suspension and M220 Limited-Slip Differential to rare luxury features like full leather interiors and paint-to-sample colors, understanding these option codes is essential for owners, buyers, and collectors alike.
In this Ultimate Guide, we will break down Porsche 968 option and equipment codes for each model year, detailing performance upgrades, interior and exterior packages, and factory-installed luxury features. We’ll also provide insights into how to decode a Porsche 968 build sheet, verify original specifications, and identify rare special edition models like the 968 Club Sport and 968 Turbo S. Additionally, we’ll answer the most common questions from owners and buyers, including which options add the most value, how to confirm a car’s authenticity, and what to look for when purchasing a well-optioned 968. Whether you’re restoring a 968, researching before a purchase, or simply curious about Porsche’s final transaxle model, this guide will provide everything you need to know about Porsche 968 options and equipment codes.
Porsche 968 Options & Equipment Codes
Despite its relatively short production run, the 968 was offered with a wide range of factory options and equipment codes, covering performance upgrades, luxury features, and rare special editions. Understanding these option codes is crucial for owners, buyers, and collectors who want to verify originality, assess a car’s rarity, and determine its true market value. In this section we go year by year to explain all the options.
Porsche 968 Options & Equipment FAQs
All your Porsche 968 car equipment and options codes questions answered.
We get tons of questions from prospective Porsche 968 buyers and owners around options codes, equipment and how to decode stuff. In this section we try to answer those common questions. We’ll also cover how to decode a Porsche 968 build sheet, determine which features are most desirable, and answer common questions about factory options.
How do I know what Porsche 968 options I have?
Every Porsche leaves the factory with a list of standard and optional equipment. Standard equipment is described by build codes and optional equipment by option codes. The codes are three or four character strings of numbers and letters. Back in the old days, all the codes started with an M and they were called as the M-codes. Nowadays they start with an I. Please note that the sticker in the service book or on the body never includes all the codes related to the car. It is a bit of a mystery why some codes are printed there and some are not.
What are the most sought after Porsche 968 options?
The Porsche 968 (1992-1995) was a well-equipped sports car from the factory, but Porsche offered a variety of performance, luxury, and special equipment options that significantly impact desirability and value today. Some of these options were rarely selected when new, making them highly sought-after by enthusiasts and collectors. Below are the most valuable and desirable Porsche 968 options, ranked by their impact on performance, rarity, and collectibility.
1. M030 Sport Suspension Package (Ultimate Handling Upgrade)
Why It’s Sought-After: The most desirable factory performance option for the 968. Included adjustable Koni shocks, stiffer springs, larger sway bars, and upgraded brakes. Rare—only found on a small percentage of 968s, especially in North America. Increases resale value significantly, especially when paired with M220 LSD.
Key Features: Adjustable Koni shocks for improved handling. Larger front (30mm) and rear (19mm) sway bars. Turbo S-style brake system with larger rotors.
2. M220 Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) – Essential for Performance
Why It’s Sought-After: Greatly improves traction and cornering grip, especially in spirited driving. Extremely rare on automatic models but highly desirable on manuals. Often found on Club Sport, Turbo S, and M030-equipped cars. Highly desirable for collectors and track enthusiasts.
Key Features: ZF limited-slip differential (LSD). Improves power delivery, especially in wet or high-speed driving.
3. M301 6-Speed Manual Transmission (Preferred Over Tiptronic)
Why It’s Sought-After: The 6-speed manual provides a more engaging driving experience. Tiptronic models are far less desirable, making manuals worth more. Many buyers actively search for manual-equipped 968s over automatics. A manual 968 commands higher resale prices than a Tiptronic model.
Key Features: 6-speed manual gearbox. Smoother power delivery and better performance vs. Tiptronic.
4. M685 Rear Seat Delete (Club Sport & Lightweight Models Only)
Why It’s Sought-After: Found on track-focused 968 Club Sport and Turbo S models. Reduces overall weight, making it ideal for performance driving. Rarely found on standard 968 models. Rare and adds collectibility, especially on Club Sport models.
Key Features: No rear seats, lightweight design. More cargo space in coupe models.
5. M480 Manual Steering (Rare Lightweight Option)
Why It’s Sought-After: Deletes power steering, reducing weight and increasing road feel. Extremely rare option, typically found on Club Sport models. Very rare, mainly sought after by hardcore driving enthusiasts.
Key Features: No power steering for a more direct driving experience. Saves weight for track use and Club Sport builds.
6. M650 Electric Sunroof (Popular Luxury Option)
Why It’s Sought-After: The most common luxury feature on the 968. Removable panel adds open-air feel without the weight of a Cabriolet. Desirable for comfort but not as rare as performance options.
Key Features: Electric tilt and removable sunroof panel. One of the most requested features by 968 buyers.
7. M398 Forged Cup Wheels (Rare Factory Upgrade)
Why It’s Sought-After: Lighter and stronger than standard wheels. Common on Club Sport and Turbo S models, but rare on standard 968s. Adds value, especially on track-ready builds.
Key Features: Lightweight 17-inch forged Cup wheels. More durable and performance-oriented than cast wheels.
8. M437 & M438 Power Adjustable Sport Seats
Why It’s Sought-After: Upgraded sport seats with full power adjustment. More comfortable than base seats and a popular upgrade for grand touring 968s. Increases desirability, especially on well-optioned cars.
Key Features: Fully adjustable power seats (driver & passenger). More supportive than standard seats.
9. M030 + M220 Combination (Ultimate Factory Build)
Why It’s Sought-After: The most desirable combination of factory performance options. Found on Club Sport models and track-focused 968s. A 968 with both M030 & M220 is one of the most valuable configurations.
Key Features: M030 sport suspension with Koni shocks & bigger sway bars. M220 LSD for improved traction.
10. Rare Paint & Interior Combinations
Why It’s Sought-After: Unique factory Paint-to-Sample (PTS) colors dramatically increase rarity. Speed Yellow (L12G), Maritime Blue (L38B), and Riviera Blue (L39E) are highly collectible. Rare interiors like full leather (M980) or Pasha-pattern seats are highly sought after. Dramatically increases collector interest, often fetching premium prices.
Key Features: Unique PTS colors like Mint Green, Signal Green, or Rubystone Red. Special interior upgrades like Pasha fabric, full leather (M980), or special color-matched seats.
Final Rankings: The Most Sought-After Porsche 968 Options
Best Performance Option: M030 Sport Suspension + M220 Limited-Slip Differential.
Most Desirable Transmission Option: M301 6-Speed Manual Transmission.
Rarest Lightweight Option: M685 Rear Seat Delete & M480 Manual Steering.
Most Valuable Wheels: M398 Forged Cup Wheels.
Most Collectible Paint & Interior Option: Paint-to-Sample (PTS) & M980 Full Leather Interior.
What are the most sought after Porsche 968 variants?
While all 968s are gaining recognition among collectors, some variants are particularly rare, powerful, and desirable due to their limited production numbers, track-focused upgrades, or unique specifications. Below are the most sought-after Porsche 968 variants, ranked by collectibility, rarity, and performance.
1. 1993-1995 Porsche 968 Club Sport (CS) – The Ultimate Lightweight 968
Why It’s Sought-After: The most track-focused, performance-oriented 968 ever built. Factory weight reduction (~220 lbs lighter than standard models). No rear seats, less sound insulation, manual windows, and lightweight Recaro bucket seats. Featured M030 sport suspension and M220 limited-slip differential as standard. Only ~1,923 units produced worldwide, with very few making it to the U.S. (Canada got 20). Values are $80,000-$120,000+, with rare Speed Yellow or Riviera Blue examples demanding a premium.
Key Features: 3.0L 240 hp inline-four (same as standard 968, but lighter). M030 sport suspension & M220 limited-slip differential (LSD). Recaro bucket seats, lightweight wheels, and manual steering (M480 on some models).
2. 1992-1994 Porsche 968 Turbo S – The Holy Grail of 968s
Why It’s Sought-After: The most powerful factory 968 ever built, with a turbocharged 3.0L engine producing 305 hp. Essentially a road-legal race car, using technology from the 944 Turbo Cup and 968 Turbo RS. Only 14 units were ever produced, making it one of the rarest Porsches ever. Try $300,000+ if one ever comes up for sale.
Key Features: 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-Four (305 hp, 369 lb-ft torque). M030 sport suspension and lightweight modifications. Factory aero kit with a unique front bumper and rear wing.
3. 1992-1994 Porsche 968 Turbo RS – Track-Only Legend
Why It’s Sought-After: The most extreme race-ready 968, developed for GT-class competition. Featured a stripped-down interior, lightweight body panels, and race-tuned suspension. Only 4 factory-built 968 Turbo RS cars exist, making it ultra-rare. Values are $500,000+ due to extreme rarity.
Key Features: 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-Four (350+ hp, race-spec engine tuning). Factory roll cage, racing seats, and lightweight construction. Race-spec suspension, brakes, and aerodynamics.
4. 1992-1995 Porsche 968 Cabriolet – The Last Transaxle Convertible
Why It’s Sought-After: The first and only open-top transaxle Porsche. Only 2,248 units were sold in North America, making it rarer than the coupe. Some Cabriolets came with factory M030 sport suspension and M220 LSD, making them more desirable. Prices are $30,000-$50,000, rising as cabriolet models become rarer.
Key Features: Fully electric soft top with a reinforced chassis. Same 3.0L 236 hp engine as the coupe. Optional M030 sport suspension & M220 LSD.
5. 1992-1995 Porsche 968 M030 Sport Package – Rare Factory Upgrade
Why It’s Sought-After: Factory high-performance suspension and braking package, available on standard 968 coupes. Included adjustable Koni shocks, larger sway bars, and upgraded brakes. Often paired with the M220 LSD, making it the best-handling street 968. Fewer than 10% of 968s were ordered with M030, making it rare. Expect to pay $40,000-$65,000, depending on condition and additional options.
Key Features: M030 Koni-adjustable suspension with thicker sway bars. Bigger brakes, similar to 944 Turbo S setup. Often combined with M220 LSD for better performance.
6. 1994 Porsche 968 “Celebration Edition” (Germany & UK Only)
Why It’s Sought-After: A limited-edition model celebrating Porsche's transaxle history. Only 10 produced, all in Speed Yellow or Riviera Blue. Featured Club Sport styling with a fully optioned luxury interior. Expect to pay $100,000+, if you can find one.
Key Features: Speed Yellow or Riviera Blue paint. ✔ Club Sport suspension and lightweight features. ✔ Full leather interior (rare for a Club Sport-style model).
Final Rankings: The Most Sought-After Porsche 968 Variants
Most Valuable & Rare: 1992-1994 968 Turbo RS – Only 4 exist, making it a true collector’s unicorn.
Best Factory Performance Model: 1993-1995 968 Club Sport – Lightweight, factory-built track-ready variant.
Most Powerful Road-Legal Model: 1992-1994 968 Turbo S – The highest factory horsepower 968 ever.
Best Naturally Aspirated Option: 1992-1995 968 with M030 & M220 LSD – The best-handling street 968.
Most Unique Special Edition: 1994 968 Celebration Edition – Ultra-rare, limited to 10 units.
What are the most popular Porsche 968 colors?
The Porsche 968 (1992-1995) was available in a variety of classic, vibrant, and metallic colors, many of which have become highly sought after among collectors. While some colors were standard across all model years, others were limited to specific markets, special editions, or exclusive factory orders. Below is a breakdown of the most popular and collectible Porsche 968 colors by era and desirability.
Standard Colors (1992-1995) – Most Common & Recognizable
Guards Red (L80K) – Porsche’s signature bright red; among the most popular 968 colors.
Alpine White (L90E) – Classic Porsche white, giving the 968 a clean and timeless look.
Black (L741) – A staple color for many Porsche models, offering a sleek and aggressive appearance.
Polar Silver Metallic (L92G) – A light metallic silver that was highly popular in the early ‘90s.
Maritime Blue (L38B) – A striking deep blue; rare but highly desirable among collectors.
Grand Prix White (L908) – A pure white color, similar to Alpine White, seen on special edition models.
Metallic & Special Order Colors (1992-1995) – Rare & Collectible
Cobalt Blue Metallic (L37U) – One of the most stunning and desirable blue metallics.
Amazon Green Metallic (L39A) – A deep green metallic with a slight blue tint, very rare.
Midnight Blue Metallic (L37W) – A dark navy blue metallic, elegant and sought after.
Slate Grey Metallic (L22D) – A deep grey, offering a stealthy, sophisticated look.
Amethyst Metallic (L38A) – A rare purple-toned metallic, making it a standout color.
Speed Yellow (L12G) – A bold, bright yellow, highly desirable among enthusiasts.
Guards Red Metallic (L84A) – A rare metallic version of Porsche’s iconic red.
Ultra-Rare & Special Edition Porsche 968 Colors
Riviera Blue (L39E) – Special Order / Paint-to-Sample: A rare vibrant blue, more commonly seen on later Porsche models.
Signal Green (Special Order) – Ultra-Rare Paint-to-Sample Color: Occasionally seen on custom-ordered 968s, but very few exist
Speed Yellow (L12G) – Club Sport & Special Edition Color: Commonly associated with track-focused Porsche 968 Club Sport models.
Slate Grey Metallic (L22D) – Collectible for its stealthy, understated appearance: Similar to the 911 Turbo 3.6 color scheme, making it highly desirable.
Black Rose Metallic (L40X) – Very Rare Special Edition Color: A unique deep red-purple metallic that looks different in various lighting conditions.
Pastel Yellow (L10E) – Rare Club Sport & Lightweight Special Order: A soft yellow that looks stunning on lightweight, track-ready versions.
Most Collectible Porsche 968 Colors Today
Guards Red (L80K) – The most iconic Porsche color, always in demand.
Polar Silver Metallic (L92G) – A highly desirable, premium-looking silver.
Cobalt Blue Metallic (L37U) & Maritime Blue (L38B) – Rare blues that are increasing in value.
Slate Grey Metallic (L22D) & Midnight Blue Metallic (L37W) – Stealthy, classic choices.
Amazon Green Metallic (L39A) & Amethyst Metallic (L38A) – Unique, stand-out colors.
Speed Yellow (L12G) – Highly desirable for Club Sport and special editions.
How do I decode a Porsche 968 build sheet?
Decoding a Porsche 968 build sheet (or option sticker) is essential for verifying a car’s original factory specifications, including paint color, interior trim, performance features, and special equipment codes. Whether you're an owner, buyer, or collector, understanding these codes can help you confirm authenticity, rarity, and value.
Step 1: Locate the Build Sheet or Option Sticker
The Porsche 968 build sheet or option sticker can be found in several locations:
📌 Under the rear carpet/hatch area – Often near the spare tire well. 📌 Inside the owner’s manual – Many 968s had an option sticker inside the service book. 📌 On the driver’s side door jamb – Some later models had the sticker here.
If the original sticker is missing, you can request a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity (COA) or Porsche Production Specifications (PPS) from Porsche to confirm factory options.
Step 2: Identify Key Sections on the Build Sheet
A Porsche 968 build sheet contains several key elements:
VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) – Identifies the model year, production sequence, and market designation.
Paint Code – Indicates the factory exterior color (e.g., L92G Polar Silver Metallic).
Interior Code – Specifies the factory interior trim (e.g., LT Black Leatherette).
Option Codes – A series of M-codes that define performance, luxury, and special features (e.g., M030 Sport Suspension, M220 Limited-Slip Differential).
Step 3: Decode the Porsche 968 Option Codes
Below are the most important and sought-after factory options for the Porsche 968:
Performance & Handling Options
M030 – Sport Suspension Package (stiffer springs, Koni adjustable shocks, thicker sway bars).
M220 – Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) (improves traction and handling).
M301 – 6-Speed Manual Transmission (standard on most models, but rare on early cars).
M398 – Forged Cup Wheels (17-inch) (lighter and stronger than standard wheels).
M474 – Koni Sport Shock Absorbers (optional upgrade on non-M030 cars).
Brakes & Drivetrain
M139 – Heated Driver’s Seat.
M340 – Heated Passenger Seat.
M395 – 16-inch Light Alloy Wheels (standard on early models).
M451 – Reduced Radio Preparation (Lightweight for track use).
M659 – On-Board Computer (Trip Info, Fuel Economy Data).
Luxury & Comfort Features
M249 – Tiptronic Automatic Transmission (rare, mostly found on North American models).
M288 – Headlamp Washer System.
M331 – Cassette Radio Blaupunkt (period-correct option).
M437 – Power Adjustable Driver's Seat.
M438 – Power Adjustable Passenger Seat.
M650 – Removable Electric Sunroof (popular feature).
M685 – Rear Seat Delete (968 Club Sport Only).
Special Edition & Rare Features
M491 – Turbo Look (Widebody) Package (extremely rare).
M471 – Club Sport Package (Lightweight, Track-Focused).
M480 – Manual Steering (Weight-Saving Option for Club Sport Models).
M601 – Xenon Headlamps (Very Rare Factory Upgrade).
M718 – Special Order Package (often linked to paint-to-sample or custom interiors).
Step 4: Verify Your Porsche 968’s Authenticity
To confirm that your build sheet matches your car, follow these steps: 1) Compare option codes with the car’s physical features (e.g., check if LSD or sport seats are installed). 2) Check the paint code under the hood or inside the door jamb. 3) Match the VIN with factory production records. 4) Request a Porsche COA (Certificate of Authenticity) from Porsche for official verification.
