Overview & Reviews

While Porsche's lineup of vehicles has been expanding in recent years, there's no question that the company's heritage and soul primarily come from a single rear-engine sports car, the 911. From rather humble beginnings, the Porsche 911 has gone on to become one of the most influential and most recognizable vehicles in the world. Today's version of the car provides stunning levels of performance without sacrificing much in terms of day-to-day usability, and many Porsche purists still consider the 911 the only "real" Porsche.

For the sports car shopper, a wide choice of drivetrains and body styles through the years makes it easy to find the perfect new or used 911. And although other sports cars have been able to outperform the 911 in one area or another, arguably no car can match the Porsche's overall blend of performance, practicality and that intoxicatingly direct connection between car and driver.

Current Porsche 911
The current 911 is available in coupe, retractable-roof coupe (Targa) and convertible (Cabriolet) body styles. The base 911 Carrera features a 350-horsepower 3.4-liter horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine (flat-6), while the Carrera S gets a 400-hp 3.8-liter flat-6 (430 hp with the optional Powerkit). The transmission for these models is either a seven-speed manual or an optional dual-clutch seven-speed automated manual known as PDK. Rear-wheel drive is standard on all except the Targa, which employs an all-wheel-drive system that's optional on the others (and denoted by a "4" in their model names).

If these specs seem inadequate, you've got options. The AWD-only and PDK-only 911 Turbo carries a turbocharged 3.8-liter flat-6 that pumps out a cool 520 hp, while the rear-wheel-drive GT3 coupe (also PDK-only) features a naturally aspirated version with 475 hp and a 9,000-rpm redline. There's also a truly absurd Turbo S model with 560 hp.

In terms of feature content, a 911's standard equipment is generally just the tip of the iceberg. Of course, if you want a bone-stock 911 Carrera coupe, Porsche will gladly build you one, and in fact it'll come nicely equipped with bi-xenon headlights, leather upholstery, a 7-inch touchscreen and a nine-speaker sound system. But most buyers take advantage of Porsche's seemingly endless options list to make their cars unique, adding niceties like Burmester premium audio, adaptive sports seats, Porsche crests in various locations and even leather-trimmed climate vent slats. OK, most people don't add the leather slats, but we enjoy the fact that Porsche offers them at all.

In reviews, we've found that most of the 911 variants are equally comfortable whether tearing through a twisty road or smoothly dealing with the daily commute. The 911's capabilities are even easier to exploit with the PDK dual-clutch automated manual gearbox, which shifts more quickly and smoothly than you can, and requires one fewer pedal to do it. On the other hand, the buttery seven-speed manual shifter provides a more intimate driving experience, and it traces a direct lineage to the manual-only 911s of the past. You can't go wrong either way. The high-performance 911 editions are regrettably no longer available with a stick, but they compensate with performance and handling on par with exotic supercars. If you're looking for a premium yet practical sports car with history on its side, the 911 is tough to top.

Used Porsche 911 Models
The current, 11th-generation Porsche 911 debuted for the 2012 model year. The "991" (Porsche's internal code for this generation) is longer and wider than its predecessor, yet it managed to lose a few pounds in the transition. The all-new exterior is complemented by an updated suspension, electric power steering, the world's first seven-speed manual transmission and engines that are more powerful and efficient. The cabin design is significantly different, borrowing many cues from the Panamera sedan.

In its first year, the 991 lineup consisted of just two models: the Carrera coupe and Carrera S coupe. The other 911s built for 2012 were of previous-generation 997 provenance. For 2013, Cabriolet versions of the 991 Carrera and Carrera S arrived, but the 911 Turbo continued to be 997-based (there was no GT3 for '13). The 991 Turbo, Turbo S and GT3 bowed for 2014, as did the Targa (with its novel power-retractable roof) and a 50th Anniversary model (essentially a Carrera S with the 4S's wider rear end, additional aesthetic upgrades and the Powerkit as standard).

The previous, 10th-generation Porsche 911 (a.k.a. "997") was introduced for 2005 and lasted until 2011, though some 911 variants continued in production for a year or two after. This generation returned to the classic 911 face, with round headlights sitting above separate turn signal units. The 997 featured a wider track for better handling, larger wheels and tires, an available active suspension system and a much improved interior in terms of materials quality, comfort and ergonomics.

The Turbo, GT2 and GT3 models produced for 2005 actually belonged to the previous 996 generation and went on hiatus thereafter until they re-emerged in future years. The all-wheel-drive Carrera 4 and 4S arrived for '06, while the 997 Targa (essentially a coupe with a huge sunroof), GT3, Turbo and limited-edition GT3 RS followed the next year. The GT2 emerged for '08.

The engine lineup for these 2005-'08 models consisted of a 3.6-liter flat-6 in the Carrera good for 325 hp and a 3.8-liter flat-6 in the Carrera S good for 355 hp. An optional Powerkit for S models introduced for '08 bumped power up to 381 hp. The GT3 and GT3 RS had a 415-hp 3.6-liter flat-6, the Turbo had a 480-hp 3.6-liter twin-turbo flat-6 and the GT2 had a 530-hp version of the same engine. All 911s of this vintage came standard with a six-speed manual transmission, while all trims except the GT3s and GT2 also offered a five-speed Tiptronic automatic as an option.

For 2009, the 997 received a slew of updates. Porsche upgraded the Carrera and Targa to a 345-hp 3.6-liter flat-6 engine and the S models to a 385-hp flat-6. Also introduced were the PDK dual-clutch automated manual transmission (replacing Tiptronic), a revised electronics interface and new features that included a hill holder, ventilated seats, Bluetooth and an iPod interface. The suspension was made a bit more compliant as well.

Meanwhile, the GT3 and GT2 went on hiatus (for one and two years, respectively), returning with the same manual transmissions but more power than ever -- 435 hp for the GT3 (via a new 3.8-liter engine) and an insane 620 hp for the renamed GT2 RS. The Turbo went mechanically unchanged until 2010, when it got a boost to 500 hp and optional PDK. The Turbo S (530 hp), GT3 RS (450 hp) and GT3 RS 4.0 (500 hp) were introduced for 2011 along with the one-year-only GTS and Speedster models. Both included a 408-hp version of the Carrera S engine, but differed otherwise. The GTS was a middle-ground performance model between Carrera and GT models, while the convertible-only Speedster harked back to the styling of previous 911s of the same name.

In reviews, we found that the 997 brought the preceding 996's mission to satisfying completion. Although the two generations shared much under the skin, the 997 nailed the classic styling that always eluded its predecessor, and its interior design and quality were much more worthy of the Porsche crest. By the end of its run, the 997 had all the technology features of a high-end luxury car, yet it still provided the visceral thrills for which 911s are revered. As a pre-owned option, the 997 is potentially an excellent value, combining thoroughly modern sports-car performance with significantly depreciated prices.

Prior to the 997, the ninth-generation Porsche 911 (a.k.a. "996") was produced from 1999-2004. It marked the first time that water cooling was used for the car's flat-6 engines. The 996 was significantly larger than the 993 it replaced, and it didn't necessarily wear the extra metal well, sporting longer overhangs and a controversial front end look that shared its integrated headlight and turn-signal clusters with the lesser Boxster roadster. The switch to water cooling and the Boxster-like nose left many 911 fans irked, and while Porsche did give the 996 unique front light clusters starting in 2002, they were still viewed by some as an unfortunate departure from the classic round-headlight look. The modernized interior also drew criticism for perceived shortcomings in materials quality and aesthetics. There was, however, no dissatisfaction with the increased performance, thanks to a jump to 300 hp (and later, 320) for the standard 911 and a heady 415 hp in the all-wheel-drive Turbo, not to mention a turbocharged 456 hp in the new rear-drive GT2 and 381 screaming horses in the naturally aspirated GT3 (which made its American debut for 2004).

Shoppers looking at 997 classifieds will likely be pleasantly surprised by the low prices. If you want a 911 with modern conveniences, this is undoubtedly the cheapest way through the door. As with any Porsche, however, be prepared for hefty maintenance costs, even if it's just a scheduled service. The 997 isn't known as an unreliable car, but it could cost you a pretty penny to keep yours running in tip-top shape.

The eighth generation 911, a.k.a. "993," was produced from 1995-'98 and was the last of the air-cooled 911s. The base 3.6-liter flat-6 started at 270 hp and swelled to 282 hp for 1996, while the Turbo bowed for 2006 with 400 hp and, for the first time, standard all-wheel drive. The rare Turbo S was offered for 1997 only with 424 hp. This era also brought the glass-topped Targa and wide-body Carrera S models, both of which would become mainstays in future generations.

Regarding resale values, the 993 is at the opposite end of the spectrum from the 997. Due to the former's iconic styling, still-engaging performance and inimitable air-cooled character, pristine specimens may command as much cash as a brand-new 911. Even examples with more than 100,000 miles can change hands for crazy-high prices. Nicely kept 993s have actually proven to be excellent investments over the past few years, so if you've got some spare capital, a 993 could be a nice place to park it for a while.

For more on past Porsche 911 models, view our Porsche 911 history page.

User Reviews:

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  Fun car to drive, but its improvable! - 2009 Porsche 911
  By xrayfun - June 23 - 9:10 am

  A great acceleration machine and I really enjoy roaring to speed limit in 2 or 3 seconds after every first-in-line red light stop. Handling around sharp corners at high speed is very good. Impressively very stable and the sports seat holds my body pretty well. Definitely like the looks of the car when the top comes down. However I dont like the look of the spoiler when it comes up, because the stainless steel lift shafts do not match the ruby red color at all. Unfortunately there is no automatic shut off function for the head lights. This is so common in all the luxury cars and it surprises me that Porsche does not do it. Measured MPG=12. Bad.

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  Adulating over Turbo - 2004 Porsche 911
  By Vince Rodriguez - June 20 - 2:00 am

  Great Car overall, GT 2 Package is awsome

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  Amazing! - 2005 Porsche 911
  By Steven - June 14 - 4:20 am

  This is the most amazing automobile that I have ever driven. It handles like a race car, its brakes like no other car, and it accelerates like cars costing two to three times as much. This is the best sports car under $100,000 in the world, and one of the few that can handle the rigors of daily commuting.

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  A modern classic - 1997 Porsche 911
  By dbtk - June 14 - 2:56 am

  One of the most enjoyable cars that I have driven. It is both an exotic in its performance and modernly comfortable its demeanor. Outstanding acceleration and handling. Great for the open road and fun along the switchbacks. As a city car it is less enjoyable with poor mileage and constant attention. Overall, however, it can not be beat for bringing a smile to your face.

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  Great Car - 2009 Porsche 911
  By Reek - June 4 - 4:03 am

  Came from an 04 BMW M3 w/ SMG. That was a great car but SMG was primitive. Porsche is more comfortable and seems to handle better. Also quicker to accelerate. BMW was more "involved". More mechanical and more intense. Porsche is more relaxed but simply responds the more it is pushed. Overall a better performing car. BMW was "edgy" so seemed to be a real performance car...a race car for the street. Porsche seems more sophisticated. I really need to adjust my attitude. The feeling is the limits of the car are far beyond anything I can (safely) approach on the street. I need more time, then I will hang the tail out on some turns. An amazing automobile.

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  The Best Super Car - 911 Turbo Cab Tip - 2008 Porsche 911
  By Porscheman-WH - May 30 - 3:06 pm

  This 08 Turbo cab is my 5th Porsche, went from 06 C2 cab manual to 08 turbo cab tip and love it!! Because of the awd, it handles corners and twisty roads far much better than my 06 c2-S cab, the power is unbelievable & beyond, it feels very solid & sticks to the road. I wish it has aggressive exhaust note or at least as good as the c-2 S w/ sport chrono package. I hope that I will not miss the stick shift feel and continue to enjoy the tip S on my new turbo. Will see!

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  What a driving machine! - 2001 Porsche 911
  By Catch me if you can - May 24 - 7:43 pm

  I thought about a Caymen S, a 993 or maybe an older air cooled 911. Then I drove the 996. Done! My 996 can be driven at 35 MPH on city streets all day long. Or on the freeway at 65 MPH. Then I downshift and push the pedal! This car is phenomenal! Suspension can be tricky on corners at high speed. Great feedback. Insane braking. Comfortable to drive. Bose stereo is very nice for a small car like this. Definitely get one if you can afford it!

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  03 Carrera White - 2003 Porsche 911
  By PCHEN - May 20 - 10:00 am

  The Carrera is a very easy car to drive fast. Its also very comfortable too. Must get the Xenon lights and 18" wheel option. Leave out the PSM because youll never need it. Spend almost $3500 just for power leather seats! Ouch...Great car. Very pricey. But worth buying the legend.

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  Club Coupe is a Winner - 2006 Porsche 911
  By clif - May 14 - 7:53 pm

  This is an incredible car. It is sensitive to tire pressures, 381 hp w x51 kit. The harder you drive it, the better it drives. i.e. more the confident you will be in its capabilities. The engine is very flexible and has gobs of power above 4,200 rpm. It has the sport chrono which makes the throttle more sensitive, firms the shocks for more precision driving and opens that melodious Porsche exhaust up. After 5,000 miles, I still get excited driving this car. There truly is no substitute. It is a world beater with 3.8 liter six cylinders. Wow. The engineers have triumphed over the physical issues of a rear engine vehicle.

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  Fun Car - 2002 Porsche 911
  By Porsche Fanatic - May 13 - 10:00 am

  Just bought the 02 Targa and it is awesome! The Targa top is very cool and the automatic sunshade is very nice!