Porsche 964 Allows For Fast Escape

Owner: Frank Pereire

Location: London, England

Year, Make, and Model: 1990 Porsche 911 (964)

Photographer: John Rampton

Mr. Frank Pereire bought his first 911 with a debit card literally duct-taped together from a dealer who flashed an odd look and knowing smile while accepting Frank’s card. He understood the zeal and the motivation; perhaps he also knew that the Neunelfer he was selling was a lemon not long for this world.

According to Frank, “The engine was shot and leaked oil like a sieve, the interior was more wrinkled than a prune and the paint duller than a brick wall. I didn’t care. I was finally in a 911!” At the time he couldn’t afford any better and knew he had to have one because of the memories and connection he had to his dad’s 3.2L Carrera. In fact, his happiest recollections were made sitting in the passenger seat as they swallowed up miles with the targa-top off on hot summer evenings. When his father finally sold it after eight years of ownership, Frank kissed the 911’s door handle goodbye. Eventually, Frank’s 911 wasn’t financially worth repairing any longer but with more disposable income than before, he sold and went on the hunt again. He found another 964, this 1990 Porsche 911 and so began his four-year blood, sweat, and tears adventure to make her Frank’s personal dream car.

Today it sports an increased displacement, aircooled flat-six (3.8L), with individual throttle bodies, producing about 380hp. Additionally, it has lightweight wheels and a full track suspension, yet it retains air-conditioning for some around-town comfort. In particular, Frank loves “the clunk of the door, the smell of rich leather mixed with oil, the induction sound emanating from the individual throttle bodies and the sound of that air-cooled flat six howling through tunnels.

And even though the car is “obnoxiously loud and not always practical” he drives it everywhere, refusing to believe the Porsche can’t do everything. Yes, Frank will run errands but what he loves is “driving her through the deserted city at night, through alpine passes in Europe, local b roads and of course, on track.”

Most of all Frank loves the visceral feel of the 964. The car requires him to focus, making all his other day-to-day thoughts disappear, and is thus so rewarding to drive. It’s like an escape, just grab the keys and go anywhere, anytime—fast!

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