Numerous models are available for the used 911 owner to choose from. Depending on the budget, anything from a 'basic' 325 horsepower 911 Carrera to a twin-turbocharged, 530 horsepower 911 GT2 can be had.
Between each end of the 911 range, you'll find different variants badged by special designations. For instance, an 'S' in the name indicates a performance enhanced model, a '4' indicates all wheel drive, and the Targa, badge is worn by a special glass-roofed 911. Some designations are used together-- for instance by the "911 Targa 4S" or the "911 Carrera 4". Others were possible, too.
Porsche 911 GT2 and GT3 versions were available in limited numbers as well, intended to appeal to track-going owners that enjoyed weekend racing. To avoid frustration with the plethora of model variations available, be sure to determine your desired model and overall budget before shopping.
You'll want to leave some extra room in the pocket-book in case your used 911 candidate requires any repairs. As with any high performance vehicle, parts and labor are pricey. Even changing tires and struts will run well into the thousands. The 911 is known for a lot of things-- but inexpensive maintenance isn't one of them.
As a low-volume car, reliability for the 2005 to 2008 Porsche 911 is hard to nail down. Some sites and authorities rate this generation as a top choice for long-term performance. Others report leaky engine seals, niggling electrical issues and even potential failure of the naturally-aspirated powerplants caused by warped heads or a bad block design.
Note that it's challenging to determine whether these issues are widespread or not- though if you're spending the money, an extended powertrain warranty probably isn't a bad idea. Replacing the engine in a Porsche 911 could cost as much as a new Hyundai.
No information is available on any serious issues dealing with transmissions or all wheel drive hardware.
If a used '997' is about to become your first Porsche, you're best advised to factor a full mechanical checkup into your budget. Ask the mechanic's opinion as to whether or not the vehicle has been abused or neglected, and question the former owner about any signs of excessive wear, unusual noises or ill-functioning equipment.
Better yet, look for a certified, pre-owned model with remaining factory warranty, where possible. Remember, the local Porsche mechanic (dealer or otherwise) knows the common issues and warning signs related to the specific model you're looking at. Given the scope of the potential investment in a used 911, importance should be placed on their comments.
At the end of the day, the joy of driving a 911 should easily outweigh the potential costs-- but that doesn't mean you should let your guard down, either.
photo:Philippe Champoux, Porsche
Between each end of the 911 range, you'll find different variants badged by special designations. For instance, an 'S' in the name indicates a performance enhanced model, a '4' indicates all wheel drive, and the Targa, badge is worn by a special glass-roofed 911. Some designations are used together-- for instance by the "911 Targa 4S" or the "911 Carrera 4". Others were possible, too.
Porsche 911 GT2 and GT3 versions were available in limited numbers as well, intended to appeal to track-going owners that enjoyed weekend racing. To avoid frustration with the plethora of model variations available, be sure to determine your desired model and overall budget before shopping.
You'll want to leave some extra room in the pocket-book in case your used 911 candidate requires any repairs. As with any high performance vehicle, parts and labor are pricey. Even changing tires and struts will run well into the thousands. The 911 is known for a lot of things-- but inexpensive maintenance isn't one of them.
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| 2008 Porsche 911 Turbo |
As a low-volume car, reliability for the 2005 to 2008 Porsche 911 is hard to nail down. Some sites and authorities rate this generation as a top choice for long-term performance. Others report leaky engine seals, niggling electrical issues and even potential failure of the naturally-aspirated powerplants caused by warped heads or a bad block design.
Note that it's challenging to determine whether these issues are widespread or not- though if you're spending the money, an extended powertrain warranty probably isn't a bad idea. Replacing the engine in a Porsche 911 could cost as much as a new Hyundai.
No information is available on any serious issues dealing with transmissions or all wheel drive hardware.
If a used '997' is about to become your first Porsche, you're best advised to factor a full mechanical checkup into your budget. Ask the mechanic's opinion as to whether or not the vehicle has been abused or neglected, and question the former owner about any signs of excessive wear, unusual noises or ill-functioning equipment.
Better yet, look for a certified, pre-owned model with remaining factory warranty, where possible. Remember, the local Porsche mechanic (dealer or otherwise) knows the common issues and warning signs related to the specific model you're looking at. Given the scope of the potential investment in a used 911, importance should be placed on their comments.
At the end of the day, the joy of driving a 911 should easily outweigh the potential costs-- but that doesn't mean you should let your guard down, either.
photo:Philippe Champoux, Porsche
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