I've owned several sports cars. After driving an Explorer and Honda Civic for several years, I was more than ready for a switch back to something a lot more enjoyable.

One of my former drives was a Toyota MR2, and its agile mid-engine handling was memorable. With that in mind, a Boxster seemed like a good candidate. But when I tried sitting in one, the fit didn't work for my 6-foot-1 frame. No other brands did either.

Then, one day the consignment lot near my home had an unusual Porsche model. I was certainly familiar with 944s. But this one was different. Just for fun I stopped, spoke with the salesman and tried it on for size. It fit perfectly.

After a drive, the deal was done, and I realized how much car I now owned. But few others seem to have a clue. When people ask, "What's a 968?", the answer I've come to give is, "It's the final version of the 944 with some serious enhancements."

There has been a lot written on the legendary driving balance of 944s. Combine that with more torque, bigger brakes, an extra gear and some styling cues from the 928, and that's a 968. There are in fact many other improvements. But those are most noticeable.

Attending the Werks Reunion last summer in Carmel Valley, California, my 968 and another were the only two there. One Porsche owner even asked, "Where are those made?" I'm regularly asked what year is it — mine's a '95 — and the common reaction is they believe it's a far more recent model.

I've had numerous compliments from younger car enthusiasts. One was the rather tall, youthful Highway Patrol officer who pulled me over a couple of months ago. I might have been able to sell him the car if he wasn't on duty. We had an enjoyable conversation about the benefits of a 968 while he was writing my ticket. He might even now be in the market for a 968 because of our chat.

While there may not be too much in way of after-market goodies for this model, like there are for 911s, the car doesn't really need much to stand out. With only about 800 sold in North America, it's not a car you'll see often.

But what's more valuable to me than rarity as is true for lots of sports car owners is how it drives. Living in the Santa Cruz area, trips down the Big Sur Coast or up to Mendocino are the best.

This is a car you can really live with. Lots of baggage room for two, it's a GT with a big, strong heart. I'm one happy Porsche owner, with a fun ride that fits me just right.