Further consideration: on a straight side view the production car is actually better balanced. There's less bulk in the rear. Maybe that side vent is doing some good work here in breaking up that area, maybe it's the more practical door cut, but I prefer the update.

With 2024 eyes, the concept did have some weird 90’s stuff going on.

My biggest issue with the production 986 intake placement is the lack of context. A contemporary Automobile magazine styling review said they're just holes in the sides of the car, and I've not been able to get that idea out of my head.