Bought my 2005 997.1 carrera about 4 years ago with 135k miles on it. Today it has 175k miles and it’s been THE most reliable car I’ve owned. What a great car it is. Nothing but oil changes, brake pads, and smiles!
Another 👍 for 05 997.1 C2S. But I’ve only got under 40k miles. Only work a few miles away and only drive it a couple days a week. Absolutely love the car tho (didn’t like paying for the IMS solution as a preventative measure tho).
So glad I bought my 997 when I did. I’ve had it 4.5 years and it’s worth more now than when I bought it, with 25k more very happy and reliable miles on it. Insanity.
Thank you! These videos take a lot of work to research, shoot, and edit, but we love doing it. Also hard to be tired at a race track like Lime Rock Park :)
Sir THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT I WAS LOOKING FOR!!! I have been doing research and i finally decided on a 997.2 but dang there's sooo many variations that just reading about them was too much. You broke it down man. The ENGINE NAMES and SPECS for specific years really helps... A LOT
As the owner of the 997 opposite spectrum; a 997.1 Carrera 2 M6-spd, and a 997.2 GT3 RS 3.8 (only M6-spd), I can honestly say either end is such a fun, entertaining and engaging drive! The prices have corrected and understandably for good reasons - few cars can offer the reliability, enjoyment and pleasure of ownership as these “super-cars”!
That’s awesome. Lucky guy. I recently drove to my buddies, who happens to live up a canyon in my 7.1 C2S (with a few mods) and the point of the meeting was to drive his 997.2 GT3 with lots of GMG goodies, his 981 GT4 and Lotus Evora 410 sport (all 6MT). He kind of wondered why I didn’t care to drive the 720, but I don’t care for automatics. Driving home I was actually surprised that I wasn’t disappointed in driving my “boring” C2S back, I guess it’s a testament to how great the platform is (don’t get me wrong, a 7.2 RS would be my dream car, even the 3.8).
@@KosmicHRTRacingTeam man, I hear you. I’ve had the .2 GT3, the .1 RS, and the .C2S (as well as several Caymans, a 991 GTS, and an Evora GT)-had the .1 RS and the .1 C2S at the same time, and I swear they were both a freaking blast, just in very different ways. I never drove the C2S and didn’t smile. You’ve got a great one there. I’m currently in a 981 GT4, but am shopping for a .1 C2S or .1 Turbo because I miss that platform so much. Enjoy. :)
Such an informative video. I am super well versed in BMW engines and models but now that I am considering a Porsche 997 as my next car, this video helps a TON understanding the differences in models, trims and codes. Top content!
M97 engine models... AOS Bore scoring IMS is still a risk but not as much as it is in the 996. Door latch pivot attached to the inside handle breaks. Climate toggle switches have the exterior wear down. Rear tail lights are brittle on the corners. Front grill catches leaves and dirt which eventually causes radiator leaks if not constantly cleaned out. Without adding a mesh screen on the front grill rocks can fly up and damage the radiators. Motor mounts sag. Coils degrade and crack. Mezger engine models... Coolant line fitting glue degrades and fails. Plastic Coolant elbows degrade and break. Hydraulics for the rear wing degrade and fail. Same issues as said above for the door latch, lights, switches, radiators, mounts, and coils.
@@sutherlacd27 Thanks, the only possible issue may be the age, as we have some really tough new laws come in for low emissions, where a daily change is placed on cars older than a certain year and it’s likely to get reduced in the near future, so a 996 is definitely not an option for me, as are some early 997s. I kind of need to buy as new as I can, without going to a 991 if I can help it.
Thinking about picking up one of these soon. Right now they’re going for $45k - $50k which is a lot of money for a car built in 2007, but the reviews of these cars have been nothing short of glowing. I’ve never purchased a sports car before and I feel like getting a 997 is the equivalent of getting a Yamaha R6 as a first bike (my biker fans understand the reference), but I’m a mature driver and I’ve been head over heels over this car the past few months.
You wont regret it Madison 3, yes prices are still $$$ but its a car that should retain value given how loved it is as a platform. Let us know what you end up with, we have you all set on DIYs once the time comes!
If it wasn't for bore scoring I'd highly recommend getting one. They're still a good choice though. Just make sure you get a PPI before purchasing and have it included checking the cylinder walls for scoring. If it's clean make sure to use quality oil and filter, when you cold start the car wait until the high idle drops down to standard idle, and then don't go above 3k rpm before the oil temperature is fully warmed up.
Great information. I was always lost on the differences of each variant of the 911 until I saw this video. Porsche can never leave things alone... always improving and updating the 911.
Wow, that's the most informative Porsche 911 video I have ever seen, thank you! I Just bought a 997.1 C4 tip having sold my 996 C4 tip last year and missed it so much I had to get another! The interior quality (and front lights) on the 997 make all the difference in otherwise a very similar car. If you're watching this and you're on the fence between a 996 and 997 I would highly recommend digging a bit deeper and finding the cash for a 997 if you can. I now wish I had dug a bit deeper myself and bought a PDK model... next year maybe :)
Totally agree, the 996 is great, but you do really notice the improvements of the 997 when you sit in them back to back. Next year sounds like a pretty good time to go PDK :)
Great review. The Turbos and GT3’s are great of course but I found a nice sweet spot in the 997.1 S w/ manual and sport chrono. Fast and sporty, yet still good as a reliable daily driver. Durable and still easy to DIY oil and brake changes. Really responds well to a sharp alignment.
Sport Chrono is an awesome option to have on any of these 911s. And we totally agree, they're plenty fast, eye-catching, and a proper alignment really wakes them up in terms of response. Both the 996 and 997 are both great DIY platforms too.
You will be hard pressed to find someone outside of Porsche themselves more knowledgeable than Nathan. If you are lucky to purchase a car from him, which I have, you know exactly what you are getting. He is rare in the automotive resell world, I’ve learned so much from him directly and through his videos.
Love your vid, i own gen 2 997 C4S PDK in meteor grey metallic with sport chrono. Bought it in lockdown 2020, its my daily driver and will never sell it. Am from London and have recently moved to Dartmoor national park Devon. Plenty of reasons for lifestyle change and the quality of driving roads in the SW of England was one of them. Have made several upgrades 2 of which i can highly recommend 1. Wheel spacers all round, 15mm on the back and 7mm on the fronts, enhances grip especially exiting corners when on a spirited drive and aesthetically the wheels all round fill the wheel arch giving a more aggressive stance. 997 definitely feels more planted on under braking on poor quality tarmac, 2. Steering wheel upgrade, out with the stock toggle shift steering wheel and in its place a 991.2 multifunction paddle shift steering wheel. This upgrade enhances driving experience again with downshift on the left and up shifts to the right, upgrade also allows all phone accessibility from wheel. If considering wheel upgrade, when installing wheel from 991.2 you have to remember that sport chrono can only b accessed in gen 2 997 from centre console, where sport chrono in 991.2 in available via a tiny drive wheel attached to the steering wheel itself, (drive Wheel easily deleted). Thanks again for your incite into 997 generation. Regards Mark in Dartmoor
I bought an auto as I have nerve damage from an operation in my left foot. Also there are more available at a decent price. Don’t for get this chap was from London near me so traffic is horrendous. Now he’s out in Dartmoor he can later get a manual and he has already added spacers which is something I wouldn’t do in London from fear of kerbing. You can learn a lot from the words of someone’s comment! Also the PDK is great. Manual would be probably nicer but needs must. I will consider that steering wheel change. The button shifters are crap but I also have heated alcantara with multifunction which I am already liking. Need more info on the 991.2 wheel.
What a great model. I owned an '06 997cab S back in 2009 and found it a blast to drive. I always drove Bimmers but had to have a Porsche. The looks and ergonomics of this car! It was Certified at a VA dealer so I didn't have all the worry about repair. Alas, too much power and temptation for me and sold it 6 months later to a very happy Canadian fellow who had to have one with the cocoa top and interior. Can't blame him.
I always thought of the 997 as the 911 that took all the credit for all the hardwork and abuse the 996 took to save the company and prepare it for the success it experienced to this day.
Thanks for a really thorough range expansive video of the 997. I was looking for a manual Targa .2 version in '19 and they were unobtanium. Found a manual GTS and purchased. I could not be happier with my decision. Just an excellent P-Car.
Good lord! There is such a wealth of information here! I love it all, and now know that I have no business trying to own a GT3, though I still find them insanely sexy.
Yes indeed, the best 997 review I've been privy to thus far. I wish that gentleman was my mechanic - on a very routine basis I fully enjoy driving my 2011 Turbo-wheel PDK PSE 997.2 C2S. The best 911 is the one that you own; there is nothing like a Porsche 911, there is nothing like manipulating that rear-engine pendulum of bliss to dredge your way past the still coffins on the highway.
100% agree the best 911 is the one you own and enjoy. We love every variant for a variety of reasons. There's a reason the 911 is the world standard for Sports and GT cars.
Great video, very helpful for a budding Porsche enthusiast! The only downside is that it makes me wish I was in a position to buy one five years ago instead of present day
Been watching my friend enjoy 911’s for quite a few years, he’s had 9 of them. Just bought my first one, a base Carrera model near mint low miles, stoked.
i think 997 is going to become the most iconic 911 ever, the centre point between the first era (sc / 3.2 / 964 / 993 / 996) and second era (991/992) ... also maybe the most beautiful
Thank you for this video. I recently got an itch about wanting some kind of Porch car, I was even looking at the Boxers lol. Now I know what to get, a 911/997.2 thank you🙏🏼
What makes 997.2 substantially more reliable than 997.1? Performance and bore scoring aside, I’ve always thought port injection to be more reliable since it doesn’t cause carbon buildup.
PASM is conventional variable dampers, not magnetically controlled. That's the BWI Magneride system that's available on Audi, Ferrari and Lamborghini. GT3 and Turbo do have the BWI magnetically controlled engine mounts, although I can't remember when these were fitted from.
Thank you Nathan - excellent video. I'm a long time sports car person and now researching and looking for my first pre-owned Porsche 911. The 997.2 looks like the one for me. Any advice to help me in my search and purchase? Thanks
Between the design of a flat 6 and the cylinder lining materials. It appears to be “when” not “if” on cylinder scoring for Porsches. Do most people just live with it either being oblivious or aware & don’t care? Seems there’s some good advice to mitigate or slow the situation, but hard to jump full in on these cars given this issue
I currently have a 2023 MKV Supra 6MT and itching to get into a Porsche and decided on a 2012 911 Carrera S 997.2. Would this be a good entry into Porsche?
Excellent information. Much appreciation for sharing. I learned a lot. A question, though: do these models have paddle shifters with PDK? I’ve heard that they don’t, that they do, and I’ve see pictures of interiors with and without paddle shifters. Many thanks for clearing that up.
3:28 There was no 997.1 GT2 RS. Not in the US and not RoW. Porsche announced the limited production run of 500 vehicles in 2010 and they were available in all markets.
I bought my 997.1 four years ago. First mod was OEM airbag deactivation kit with latch to put my son in the front passenger. Now both are old enough to fit in car seats in the back. Other mods are: Fister exhaust Intake muffler bypass Numeric short shifter Forgestar wheels LN engineering ims upgrade I'm also excited to be installing these soon once springs come in: Elephant racing GT3 adjustable lower control arms front and rear Elephant racing camber plates Elephant racing sport bushings for rear upper control arm GT3 front and rear sway M030 springs with Bilstein B8 dampers Elephant racing bump steer kit
Those Elephant racing parts should really let you dial things in when it comes to the alignment. (Also we wish we grew up riding in the back of a 911 like your son :)
@@RobertS-eq9yn one of the reasons I got the fister was being in California and I didn't want any trouble during STAR smog inspection. Its good if the car is your daily as it doesn't drone and with the windows up you can barely notice unless you are WOT. Windows down sounds really nice. One thing that lacks is this exhaust doesn't enhance the high rev flat 6 howl that some other exhausts have. It has more of a baritone note.
Hey a very detailed explanation video appreciate your expertise and energy in this video, respect. Question, i just saw a 997.2 (2008) model for sale in Japan for around $47K. The car is in an immaculate condition well at least in photos anyway, is it a right price? Also is this model realizable as you mentioned engine wise…also this would be an online buy is it a risk???thanks
Glad you enjoyed the videos! Without knowing details on what is involved with buying a car from Japan, we can't say if that's a good buy or not. It is definitely too new to import to the USA under normal circumstances. We generally recommend a solid PPI on any used Porsche, but especially one you can't inspect before you buy.
From U.K. I purchased 997.2 GTS in 2024 and other than service and wear and tear costs in ten years it has increased in value by £15K, my daily driver is a 2004 996 Turbo I purchased this in 2020 replacing a BMW M4 as with COVID my daily commute no longer existed, in 2023 my office relocation was a daily 20 mile drive, my Wife received a company BMW 330E which in U.K. has great tax advantages, we have a home wall box and car will do 32 miles in Electric mode being a hybrid for me it has best of both worlds and is incredibly cheap to run, so my Wife who works from home 3 days a week now rinds around in a 997 or 996 Turbo. The 996 being a 996.2 Turbo with carbo and extra leather package has an improved quality interior fitted with new PCM it’s feels quite premium.
Subscribed, tnx and on my way to buy a Silver 997.1 Manual Cabrio with a blue interior, although a coupé seems more beautiful to me but in Belgium fines are harsh for speeding so more fun in a convertible.
Great review. Don't know if I missed or what, but I believe that it is worth mentioning that 997.2 gt3 used narrow body and 997.2 gt3rs used wide body (as a turbo model). Don't know about 997.1 gt3 and rs models, but I think those were only narrow ones.
At 11min 20sec, I was really hoping to hear a confirmation that the 997.2 GT3 & GT3RS remained as PORT injection, whereas (as you did say just prior), the other lower models had gone to the DFI. Pls confirm port injection for GT3. Thank you!
Hey Craig - that is correct. 997.2 GT3/GT3 RS still use the 'Mezger' engine. The GT3 models did not move to direct injection until the 2014 991.1 GT3. All non-GT3 997.2 use DFI, including the Turbo. Hope that helps!
Computer-controlled 4-wheel drive, the car brakes differently, engine pads also with a cable, hinge also with a computer, 997.2 not to mention the engine accessories, it is 991.1 mechanically. It drives definitely digitally compared to the 996 or 986. If I could still count 997.1 as an analog, it is 997.2 for sure not
Hi.. I'm from Wales UK. I'm considering selling My 2006, "997.1, S" I am the 3rd owner. 21,000 miles, Full Porsche Service history. Just had Major Service and Health Check. X51 power kit. Ceramic Brakes. Short Shift Manual box. Unmarked BASALT Black paintwork. Immaculate Black extended leather. (No creases in seat Bolsters) Black Dials. Lots of other Factory fitted extras.. Any ideas on how much I should ask for it. Thanks...
This is my dream car, not sure if I'll get a Turbo or a Carrera, as I'm new to sports cars and there of course is a big price difference too. Still, one day I'll have my own.
Been looking into this and haven't found exact numbers, but the general consensus is that they are fairly rare compared to 997.1 Turbo w/ manual. Mainly due to fewer sold because of the financial crisis at the time. Around 3800 total 997.2 were made globally, something fewer than 20% of those are probably manual.
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Bought my 2005 997.1 carrera about 4 years ago with 135k miles on it. Today it has 175k miles and it’s been THE most reliable car I’ve owned. What a great car it is. Nothing but oil changes, brake pads, and smiles!
Another 👍 for 05 997.1 C2S. But I’ve only got under 40k miles. Only work a few miles away and only drive it a couple days a week. Absolutely love the car tho (didn’t like paying for the IMS solution as a preventative measure tho).
Is this after an IMS preventative fix?
@@KosmicHRTRacingTeam Got my 997.1 S w 60k miles, has 80k now and have never done anything for the IMS failure prevention and I really don't care to.
You’re the reason I’m watching this!
@@KosmicHRTRacingTeamhow much did you oay fir your IMS replacement?
So glad I bought my 997 when I did. I’ve had it 4.5 years and it’s worth more now than when I bought it, with 25k more very happy and reliable miles on it. Insanity.
Kellin you made a wise wise decision 4.5 years ago! What kind of 997 do you drive?
@@fcpeuro 997.1 C2S 6speed Coupe. Upgraded IMS. Lots of maintenance done with FCP parts.
same here!!! bought it just in time.....
I wish I would have bought mine sooner, but loving it!
Yeah I sold mine to finish my house. Worst mistake I’ve ever made financially
Wow, you had to be exhausted after finishing this video! Probably the most, detailed information on the 997 series that I've ever seen!
Thank you! These videos take a lot of work to research, shoot, and edit, but we love doing it. Also hard to be tired at a race track like Lime Rock Park :)
@@fcpeuro 100%
Sir THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT I WAS LOOKING FOR!!! I have been doing research and i finally decided on a 997.2 but dang there's sooo many variations that just reading about them was too much. You broke it down man. The ENGINE NAMES and SPECS for specific years really helps... A LOT
💙
As the owner of the 997 opposite spectrum; a 997.1 Carrera 2 M6-spd, and a 997.2 GT3 RS 3.8 (only M6-spd), I can honestly say either end is such a fun, entertaining and engaging drive! The prices have corrected and understandably for good reasons - few cars can offer the reliability, enjoyment and pleasure of ownership as these “super-cars”!
We'll fight anyone who says the 911 isn't the best daily-driver "everyday" supercar 😉
That’s awesome. Lucky guy. I recently drove to my buddies, who happens to live up a canyon in my 7.1 C2S (with a few mods) and the point of the meeting was to drive his 997.2 GT3 with lots of GMG goodies, his 981 GT4 and Lotus Evora 410 sport (all 6MT). He kind of wondered why I didn’t care to drive the 720, but I don’t care for automatics. Driving home I was actually surprised that I wasn’t disappointed in driving my “boring” C2S back, I guess it’s a testament to how great the platform is (don’t get me wrong, a 7.2 RS would be my dream car, even the 3.8).
@@KosmicHRTRacingTeam man, I hear you. I’ve had the .2 GT3, the .1 RS, and the .C2S (as well as several Caymans, a 991 GTS, and an Evora GT)-had the .1 RS and the .1 C2S at the same time, and I swear they were both a freaking blast, just in very different ways. I never drove the C2S and didn’t smile. You’ve got a great one there. I’m currently in a 981 GT4, but am shopping for a .1 C2S or .1 Turbo because I miss that platform so much. Enjoy. :)
Best video of the 997 series I’ve ever seen. Great work! Extremely proud to own a 997.2 C2S MT Cabriolet!
Thank you so much Chef!
I own a 997.2 CS4 MT. Love it!
Such an informative video. I am super well versed in BMW engines and models but now that I am considering a Porsche 997 as my next car, this video helps a TON understanding the differences in models, trims and codes. Top content!
Glad we could be of some persuasion, happy car shopping!
This is one of the best videos I've seen on the 997. I'd love to see you guys do a 997 common issues video in the future.
Great content as always 👍🏻
We will be making diagnostic guides for 997 shortly!
M97 engine models...
AOS
Bore scoring
IMS is still a risk but not as much as it is in the 996.
Door latch pivot attached to the inside handle breaks.
Climate toggle switches have the exterior wear down.
Rear tail lights are brittle on the corners.
Front grill catches leaves and dirt which eventually causes radiator leaks if not constantly cleaned out.
Without adding a mesh screen on the front grill rocks can fly up and damage the radiators.
Motor mounts sag.
Coils degrade and crack.
Mezger engine models...
Coolant line fitting glue degrades and fails.
Plastic Coolant elbows degrade and break.
Hydraulics for the rear wing degrade and fail.
Same issues as said above for the door latch, lights, switches, radiators, mounts, and coils.
@@sutherlacd27thanks, that’s really helpful to know for a newbie buyer.
@simonelliott5956 personally I would only get a mezger 996 or 997.1
@@sutherlacd27 Thanks, the only possible issue may be the age, as we have some really tough new laws come in for low emissions, where a daily change is placed on cars older than a certain year and it’s likely to get reduced in the near future, so a 996 is definitely not an option for me, as are some early 997s. I kind of need to buy as new as I can, without going to a 991 if I can help it.
Thinking about picking up one of these soon. Right now they’re going for $45k - $50k which is a lot of money for a car built in 2007, but the reviews of these cars have been nothing short of glowing. I’ve never purchased a sports car before and I feel like getting a 997 is the equivalent of getting a Yamaha R6 as a first bike (my biker fans understand the reference), but I’m a mature driver and I’ve been head over heels over this car the past few months.
You wont regret it Madison 3, yes prices are still $$$ but its a car that should retain value given how loved it is as a platform. Let us know what you end up with, we have you all set on DIYs once the time comes!
If it wasn't for bore scoring I'd highly recommend getting one. They're still a good choice though. Just make sure you get a PPI before purchasing and have it included checking the cylinder walls for scoring. If it's clean make sure to use quality oil and filter, when you cold start the car wait until the high idle drops down to standard idle, and then don't go above 3k rpm before the oil temperature is fully warmed up.
Great information. I was always lost on the differences of each variant of the 911 until I saw this video. Porsche can never leave things alone... always improving and updating the 911.
Wow, that's the most informative Porsche 911 video I have ever seen, thank you! I Just bought a 997.1 C4 tip having sold my 996 C4 tip last year and missed it so much I had to get another! The interior quality (and front lights) on the 997 make all the difference in otherwise a very similar car. If you're watching this and you're on the fence between a 996 and 997 I would highly recommend digging a bit deeper and finding the cash for a 997 if you can. I now wish I had dug a bit deeper myself and bought a PDK model... next year maybe :)
Totally agree, the 996 is great, but you do really notice the improvements of the 997 when you sit in them back to back. Next year sounds like a pretty good time to go PDK :)
Great review. The Turbos and GT3’s are great of course but I found a nice sweet spot in the 997.1 S w/ manual and sport chrono. Fast and sporty, yet still good as a reliable daily driver. Durable and still easy to DIY oil and brake changes. Really responds well to a sharp alignment.
Sport Chrono is an awesome option to have on any of these 911s. And we totally agree, they're plenty fast, eye-catching, and a proper alignment really wakes them up in terms of response. Both the 996 and 997 are both great DIY platforms too.
This is the video I've needed. Not because I'm planning on getting a porka, just that i like watching videos
You will be hard pressed to find someone outside of Porsche themselves more knowledgeable than Nathan. If you are lucky to purchase a car from him, which I have, you know exactly what you are getting. He is rare in the automotive resell world, I’ve learned so much from him directly and through his videos.
Thanks for this presentation! I am considering a 997 and the detail you provided was very helpful.
Our pleasure M W , let us know if you end up with one!
Love your vid, i own gen 2 997 C4S PDK in meteor grey metallic with sport chrono. Bought it in lockdown 2020, its my daily driver and will never sell it. Am from London and have recently moved to Dartmoor national park Devon. Plenty of reasons for lifestyle change and the quality of driving roads in the SW of England was one of them. Have made several upgrades 2 of which i can highly recommend 1. Wheel spacers all round, 15mm on the back and 7mm on the fronts, enhances grip especially exiting corners when on a spirited drive and aesthetically the wheels all round fill the wheel arch giving a more aggressive stance. 997 definitely feels more planted on under braking on poor quality tarmac, 2. Steering wheel upgrade, out with the stock toggle shift steering wheel and in its place a 991.2 multifunction paddle shift steering wheel. This upgrade enhances driving experience again with downshift on the left and up shifts to the right, upgrade also allows all phone accessibility from wheel. If considering wheel upgrade, when installing wheel from 991.2 you have to remember that sport chrono can only b accessed in gen 2 997 from centre console, where sport chrono in 991.2 in available via a tiny drive wheel attached to the steering wheel itself, (drive Wheel easily deleted). Thanks again for your incite into 997 generation.
Regards
Mark in Dartmoor
Why buy the auto? Does your wife need to drive it?
I bought an auto as I have nerve damage from an operation in my left foot. Also there are more available at a decent price. Don’t for get this chap was from London near me so traffic is horrendous. Now he’s out in Dartmoor he can later get a manual and he has already added spacers which is something I wouldn’t do in London from fear of kerbing. You can learn a lot from the words of someone’s comment! Also the PDK is great. Manual would be probably nicer but needs must. I will consider that steering wheel change. The button shifters are crap but I also have heated alcantara with multifunction which I am already liking. Need more info on the 991.2 wheel.
Holy content! This series is awesome and solved a bunch of questions I never knew I needed answered.
That's what we are here for M D! Glad we could be of aid
the 997 has always been the proper successor to the 993
Have had my 997.2 GT3 for 6 months now. Best car I’ve ever driven, hands down. These are truly some of the most rewarding drivers cars of all time.
What a great model. I owned an '06 997cab S back in 2009 and found it a blast to drive. I always drove Bimmers but had to have a Porsche. The looks and ergonomics of this car! It was Certified at a VA dealer so I didn't have all the worry about repair. Alas, too much power and temptation for me and sold it 6 months later to a very happy Canadian fellow who had to have one with the cocoa top and interior. Can't blame him.
Can't really blame him
best porsche 911 models video, explained all before the buy. thanks
Always enjoy these Buyer's Guide. Porsche are amazing and fun to own and drive. "There is No Substitute!" "Any Curve, Anywhere, Any Time!" - Porsche
I know a bit about 911 997 models but this is an exemplary video of the descriptions - worthy of being presented by Porsche. Thank you.
thank you. 997 buyer's guide is super informative. Made me look for a 991 buyer's guide!
Great to hear!
This deserves so much more likes!
I always thought of the 997 as the 911 that took all the credit for all the hardwork and abuse the 996 took to save the company and prepare it for the success it experienced to this day.
As a 996 owner, Mike here would agree with you!
Thanks for a really thorough range expansive video of the 997. I was looking for a manual Targa .2 version in '19 and they were unobtanium. Found a manual GTS and purchased. I could not be happier with my decision. Just an excellent P-Car.
Our pleasure Scott, congrats on the GTS, what a killer car!
I love the details in this video. Do you guys have a 991 guide?
The information he is communicating is next level. Great job!
Good lord! There is such a wealth of information here! I love it all, and now know that I have no business trying to own a GT3, though I still find them insanely sexy.
Yes indeed, the best 997 review I've been privy to thus far. I wish that gentleman was my mechanic - on a very routine basis I fully enjoy driving my 2011 Turbo-wheel PDK PSE 997.2 C2S. The best 911 is the one that you own; there is nothing like a Porsche 911, there is nothing like manipulating that rear-engine pendulum of bliss to dredge your way past the still coffins on the highway.
100% agree the best 911 is the one you own and enjoy. We love every variant for a variety of reasons. There's a reason the 911 is the world standard for Sports and GT cars.
Amazingly thorough video. Such a valuable introduction to these cars! Great work!🙌
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you for the detailed information about the 997 family.
So appreciate the enormous amount of useful information herein. Just beginning the process of education and “wife-convincing” here. Thx!
Great video, very helpful for a budding Porsche enthusiast! The only downside is that it makes me wish I was in a position to buy one five years ago instead of present day
That is the sentiment for many of us here..
Minor correction but the engine does not need to be dropped to do the IMS on the early M96-engined 997.1 - just did this myself.
A manual/base carrera 997.1 with almost 200,000Km is a good option for €30k or is it worth the €10k more for a model with fewer kilometers?
Sold my 997.1 turbo 2 years ago. A car i should never have sold. Looking to get back into one soon
Amazing vehicles for sure!
Did the same, but replaced it with a GT2. No regrets, it’s another league.
very good information on the differences between each model.
Can't wait to become a Porsche 911 owner 🔑 16:56 I love to build cars, so know certain parts are transferable motivates me.
Been watching my friend enjoy 911’s for quite a few years, he’s had 9 of them. Just bought my first one, a base Carrera model near mint low miles, stoked.
How much $$ is it these days ?
@@muratbaykal1253 mine with 32 thousand miles was 50 ish Canadian.
i think 997 is going to become the most iconic 911 ever, the centre point between the first era (sc / 3.2 / 964 / 993 / 996) and second era (991/992) ... also maybe the most beautiful
Thank you for this video. I recently got an itch about wanting some kind of Porch car, I was even looking at the Boxers lol. Now I know what to get, a 911/997.2 thank you🙏🏼
What makes 997.2 substantially more reliable than 997.1? Performance and bore scoring aside, I’ve always thought port injection to be more reliable since it doesn’t cause carbon buildup.
997 is th Real successor to the 993. 996 was just a design mistake... That's MY opinion. 😉
Nice vidéo, really spot on. 👍
All of the 997’s are just fantastic. No doubt they will all be commanding big prices in the future. Same as the 993.
You really know the 997 and feel you know the rest just as well. I am in the business so its nice to find out the details.
Looking for 997.2 turbo here in canada Manitoba
Love to find one low kms manual transmission can’t wait just started looking
Good luck on the quest for the perfect turbo ! Let us know what you end up with
Excellent summary of 997’s 👍🏼👍🏼
Thank you! Really appreciate the positive feedback. This was a really fun one to do for sure.
Great video break down on the 911 i learned soo much an will purchase a turbo 997.2 here real soon Lord willingly
Excellent breakdown, thank you!
The 997 GTS is the cream of the crop. Wide body RWD. I’m most certain GTS production was below GT car production, making them quite rare.
It is quite the specimen in our eyes.
PASM is conventional variable dampers, not magnetically controlled. That's the BWI Magneride system that's available on Audi, Ferrari and Lamborghini. GT3 and Turbo do have the BWI magnetically controlled engine mounts, although I can't remember when these were fitted from.
Why haven’t you done a 991.1 buyers guide ? Please Do! This video was Excellent !
Thank you Nathan - excellent video. I'm a long time sports car person and now researching and looking for my first pre-owned Porsche 911. The 997.2 looks like the one for me. Any advice to help me in my search and purchase? Thanks
Be patient until the right deal comes along. Always make sure to get a PPI before purchasing.
Between the design of a flat 6 and the cylinder lining materials. It appears to be “when” not “if” on cylinder scoring for Porsches. Do most people just live with it either being oblivious or aware & don’t care? Seems there’s some good advice to mitigate or slow the situation, but hard to jump full in on these cars given this issue
Bought a 997.1 orange GT3 RS and love it.
I currently have a 2023 MKV Supra 6MT and itching to get into a Porsche and decided on a 2012 911 Carrera S 997.2. Would this be a good entry into Porsche?
Exceptional video i loved it, thanks alot for the valuable information. Proud owner of 997.2 S with 57K KM in it.
Our pleasure!
Excellent information. Much appreciation for sharing. I learned a lot.
A question, though: do these models have paddle shifters with PDK? I’ve heard that they don’t, that they do, and I’ve see pictures of interiors with and without paddle shifters. Many thanks for clearing that up.
997.2 has PDK.
great informative clip! l now edging towards the 997s 11 .. thanks for this .. cheers JT
3:28 There was no 997.1 GT2 RS. Not in the US and not RoW. Porsche announced the limited production run of 500 vehicles in 2010 and they were available in all markets.
NATHAN BROWN 👎
I am currently looking for a manual 997, very well detailed video!
Good luck on your search Donald!
Best informational series ever 👏
We think youll really enjoy the full season of our Buyer's Guides coming out later this year!
I bought my 997.1 four years ago. First mod was OEM airbag deactivation kit with latch to put my son in the front passenger. Now both are old enough to fit in car seats in the back.
Other mods are:
Fister exhaust
Intake muffler bypass
Numeric short shifter
Forgestar wheels
LN engineering ims upgrade
I'm also excited to be installing these soon once springs come in:
Elephant racing GT3 adjustable lower control arms front and rear
Elephant racing camber plates
Elephant racing sport bushings for rear upper control arm
GT3 front and rear sway
M030 springs with Bilstein B8 dampers
Elephant racing bump steer kit
Those Elephant racing parts should really let you dial things in when it comes to the alignment. (Also we wish we grew up riding in the back of a 911 like your son :)
How do you like the exhaust? I'm on the hunt for one but am having trouble trying to decide which is best.
@@RobertS-eq9yn one of the reasons I got the fister was being in California and I didn't want any trouble during STAR smog inspection. Its good if the car is your daily as it doesn't drone and with the windows up you can barely notice unless you are WOT. Windows down sounds really nice. One thing that lacks is this exhaust doesn't enhance the high rev flat 6 howl that some other exhausts have. It has more of a baritone note.
@@fcpeuro l
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Best 997 video! Thanks!
Awesome video on the 997 generation, sure miss mine now!
Glad you liked it Alexandere, hope you replaced your 997 with something equally as fun!
I have a 997 turbo 2007. Enjoyed the video
i sold my 997 (2005) carrera and bought a 997.2 turbo s (2012). i love this car.
997.1 turbo with manual transmission and Mezger engine is still an amazing car!!!
Certainly is!
Really helpful review - many thanks !
Thank you for a simply awesome presentation.
Really like the gts and turbo s models, was lucky to be able to drive the 997 turbo s in 2013(was a 12)
The GTS just looks so good, and who doesnt love some spooly boys behind them...
U were 12 and driving
@@danrook5757 the car....
Hey a very detailed explanation video appreciate your expertise and energy in this video, respect. Question, i just saw a 997.2 (2008) model for sale in Japan for around $47K. The car is in an immaculate condition well at least in photos anyway, is it a right price? Also is this model realizable as you mentioned engine wise…also this would be an online buy is it a risk???thanks
Glad you enjoyed the videos! Without knowing details on what is involved with buying a car from Japan, we can't say if that's a good buy or not. It is definitely too new to import to the USA under normal circumstances. We generally recommend a solid PPI on any used Porsche, but especially one you can't inspect before you buy.
2:53 can the spoiler be added??? to 911 carrera ?
From U.K. I purchased 997.2 GTS in 2024 and other than service and wear and tear costs in ten years it has increased in value by £15K, my daily driver is a 2004 996 Turbo I purchased this in 2020 replacing a BMW M4 as with COVID my daily commute no longer existed, in 2023 my office relocation was a daily 20 mile drive, my Wife received a company BMW 330E which in U.K. has great tax advantages, we have a home wall box and car will do 32 miles in Electric mode being a hybrid for me it has best of both worlds and is incredibly cheap to run, so my Wife who works from home 3 days a week now rinds around in a 997 or 996 Turbo. The 996 being a 996.2 Turbo with carbo and extra leather package has an improved quality interior fitted with new PCM it’s feels quite premium.
Should read purchased 997.2 GTS in 2014 not 2024
Subscribed, tnx and on my way to buy a Silver 997.1 Manual Cabrio with a blue interior, although a coupé seems more beautiful to me but in Belgium fines are harsh for speeding so more fun in a convertible.
Good luck with it - we are sure you'll love it!
why isnt version Turbo 1.5 mentioned ? Super rare
I have a question. Could you advise how to earn enough money for the 997.2 Turbo Manual?
💙
Great review. Don't know if I missed or what, but I believe that it is worth mentioning that 997.2 gt3 used narrow body and 997.2 gt3rs used wide body (as a turbo model). Don't know about 997.1 gt3 and rs models, but I think those were only narrow ones.
997.1 gt3 was also narrow body, I believe the 997.1 gt3 rs used the C4s body
You are correct. RS uses wide body
Great video mate, proud to have a 2008 gt2 in the family
Right on!
Excellent review. Thanks
The 2005 Targa was actually still a 996. The turbo may have been as well.
What exact model is that red one in this video ?
I am about to buy a 2012 911 black edition. Do you recommend?
Okay......after watching this video I am convinced that this guy must be a great grandson of Mr. Porsche himself......
At 11min 20sec, I was really hoping to hear a confirmation that the 997.2 GT3 & GT3RS remained as PORT injection, whereas (as you did say just prior), the other lower models had gone to the DFI. Pls confirm port injection for GT3. Thank you!
Hey Craig - that is correct. 997.2 GT3/GT3 RS still use the 'Mezger' engine. The GT3 models did not move to direct injection until the 2014 991.1 GT3. All non-GT3 997.2 use DFI, including the Turbo. Hope that helps!
Great video, now I have the knowledge, I only need the money
Computer-controlled 4-wheel drive, the car brakes differently, engine pads also with a cable, hinge also with a computer, 997.2 not to mention the engine accessories, it is 991.1 mechanically. It drives definitely digitally compared to the 996 or 986. If I could still count 997.1 as an analog, it is 997.2 for sure not
Hi..
I'm from Wales UK.
I'm considering selling
My 2006, "997.1, S"
I am the 3rd owner.
21,000 miles, Full Porsche Service history.
Just had Major Service and Health Check.
X51 power kit.
Ceramic Brakes.
Short Shift Manual box.
Unmarked BASALT Black paintwork.
Immaculate Black extended leather.
(No creases in seat Bolsters) Black Dials.
Lots of other Factory fitted extras..
Any ideas on how much I should ask for it. Thanks...
Amazing video
You don’t need to drop the engine to replace the IMS. I agree you need to remove the gearbox but, the engine can stay in situ.
Great video. Very informative and helpful for anyone considering buying one of these cars. Can I buy 3?
Yes you can!
amazing summary
The 997 GT2RS actually was available in the U.S. they made 500 worldwide and about 125 of them came stateside
This is my dream car, not sure if I'll get a Turbo or a Carrera, as I'm new to sports cars and there of course is a big price difference too. Still, one day I'll have my own.
Can’t wait to get a 997.2! Soon!
There is also a 997 gen 1.5 only 200 made. Same engine as 996 but with a modern electronics (satnav stereo etc).
While depressing the tab, it often helps to push the connector in, and then pull away with it.
I‘m only aware of the MY 2010 GT2 that some consider MK 1.5?
Great, very informative video, thank you!
Question how many Manuals were made for the for the 997.2 Turbo?
Been looking into this and haven't found exact numbers, but the general consensus is that they are fairly rare compared to 997.1 Turbo w/ manual. Mainly due to fewer sold because of the financial crisis at the time. Around 3800 total 997.2 were made globally, something fewer than 20% of those are probably manual.