Porsche 993 Turbo review

Slot into the 993’s slim but supportive seat and it doesn’t suddenly feel dainty in a way retro stuff does usually. In truth, it barely feels retro at all. Every component is dripping in silky finesse and feel and the whole thing is as easy-going as a modern Turbo.

The gearbox requires more effort, of course, and its oddly hinged clutch pedal and tight gate favour a brusque, physical approach. But the car smoothes out wonderfully with confident inputs and you’re soon chasing the boost, which kicks in above 4,000rpm before you soar maniacally to 7,000. And with AWD, there are no ‘old 911’ scares along the way.

It feels a truly modern car when it comes to grip, braking and outright acceleration. Its digital speedo - nestled in the centre of the classic, nay iconic, five-dial layout - will show three figures with worrying ease. Apparently. For reference, 0-62mph takes 4.3secs and its top speed is 180mph – figures only marginally improved by the more specialist, 42bhp-healthier Turbo S.

While the turbos don’t boost anywhere near as briskly as they do in a 911 nowadays – this is when Turbo was a badge used very sparingly on planet performance car, and ‘lag’ was a given – once their lungs are filled, you’ll cover ground in the 993 Turbo, make no mistake. Smart use of the gearbox will keep things on boost nicely, too. For all its eloquence when you drive it like you’re a grown-up, it really, really appreciates a heavier hand and a bit between the driver’s teeth. It gets more and more spectacular as your confidence soars, living up to its poster car status. And more.